The Chris Cuomo Project: Episode Summary

Episode Title: The Truth About Trump’s Third Term Rumors
Release Date: April 3, 2025

In this compelling episode of The Chris Cuomo Project, host Chris Cuomo delves deep into the swirling speculations surrounding former President Donald Trump's potential pursuit of a third presidential term. Drawing from historical precedents, constitutional law, and current political dynamics, Cuomo provides listeners with a thorough analysis of the feasibility and implications of such a move.

1. Introduction to Third Term Rumors

Cuomo opens the discussion by addressing recent statements and actions that have fueled rumors about Trump seeking a third term. He references a conversation with Steve Bannon, who expressed confidence in Trump's ambitions despite the 22nd Amendment, which ostensibly limits presidents to two terms.

Cuomo (00:30): "Steve Bannon was on my show here at News Nation, and he said, no, no, no. I don't know why I'm appearing in polls for the next president, because I'm backing Trump. Wait, Trump? He's already been elected twice. Yeah, but I think he's gonna get a third term."

2. Constitutional Barriers to a Third Term

A significant portion of the episode focuses on the constitutional constraints that make a third term for Trump highly improbable. Cuomo meticulously breaks down the 22nd Amendment, explaining the rigorous process required to repeal it, which includes obtaining two-thirds majority in both houses of Congress and ratification by three-quarters of the states.

Cuomo (23:45): "The Constitution specifically disqualifies Trump. So what he would have to do is repeal the 22nd Amendment. Can he do that? Yes. How? Two thirds of each house of Congress stop the analysis as soon as it's. It's not going to happen."

3. Historical Context: FDR’s Four Terms

To provide historical perspective, Cuomo examines Franklin D. Roosevelt's unprecedented four-term presidency and the subsequent ratification of the 22nd Amendment. He clarifies misconceptions about FDR's influence on term limits, emphasizing that the amendment was a direct response to his extended tenure rather than an ongoing effort to safeguard presidential term limits.

Cuomo (17:20): "Before FDR, before the 22nd Amendment, which was ratified, I think, in 1951, and it was ratified really fast by constitutional amendment standards. And that showed you the urgency and the unanimity."

4. Potential Scenarios for Extending Presidential Power

Cuomo explores various hypothetical scenarios that could be misconstrued as pathways to a third term, such as declaring a national emergency or invoking martial law. He systematically debunks each possibility by highlighting the constitutional checks and balances that prevent the executive branch from overreaching.

Cuomo (35:10): "If you want to have a conspiracy theory, the conspiracy theory that makes the only sense other than Trump's and. And he's going to try to subvert the Constitution is that he's having that litigation to prove that he has the sole discretion over this."

5. The Role of the Supreme Court

The discussion extends to the influence of the Supreme Court in shaping the boundaries of presidential power. Cuomo expresses concerns about the court's current composition and its potential impact on upholding constitutional limits, yet he remains skeptical about the likelihood of the court endorsing any attempt to undermine the 22nd Amendment.

Cuomo (40:50): "I believe that this court composition is in my lifetime, in my lifetime, an observable low point. And not because they're all conservatives, but because they're all driven by their personal politics."

6. Trump Derangement Syndrome and Voter Behavior

Addressing the fervent support base of Trump, Cuomo introduces the concept of "Trump Derangement Syndrome," suggesting that both supporters and detractors project exaggerated narratives onto him. He critiques the polarized electorate's susceptibility to misinformation and the elevation of Trump beyond institutional checks.

Cuomo (45:30): "MAGA people have it too, because MAGA people think that this guy is something more than what he is. And MAGA people believe that whatever he tells them is true."

7. Strength of American Institutions and Constitution

Cuomo reaffirms his faith in American democratic institutions and the Constitution, arguing that despite political maneuvering, the foundational checks and balances remain robust. He underscores the importance of judicial oversight and the resilience of democratic norms in preventing authoritarianism.

Cuomo (50:15): "I believe our institutions are stronger. I believe the law is real. I believe that the Constitution is real. And that may sound like something everybody says, but, man, they don't live it. They do not live it. Trump does not live it."

8. Call to Action: Voter Vigilance and Midterm Importance

Concluding the episode, Cuomo emphasizes the critical role of voter vigilance, especially in the upcoming midterm elections. He urges listeners to remain informed, critical, and active in safeguarding democratic principles against any attempts at power consolidation.

Cuomo (1:05:45): "You're taking the bait and you're still investing belief that Trump is bigger than everything else in America. And one, man, are you giving him a lot of credit, and two, man, are you taking a lot away from our country and our democracy and our people."

Conclusion

In The Truth About Trump’s Third Term Rumors, Chris Cuomo delivers a nuanced and well-researched examination of the improbability of Donald Trump securing a third presidential term. By dissecting constitutional laws, historical precedents, and current political strategies, Cuomo equips his audience with the knowledge to critically assess such claims. His unwavering support for American democratic institutions serves as a reassuring reminder of the system's capacity to withstand challenges, reinforcing the importance of active and informed citizenship.

Notable Quotes:

• Steve Bannon on Trump’s Third Term Ambitions (00:30): "Wait, Trump? He's already been elected twice. Yeah, but I think he's gonna get a third term."

• Constitutional Amendment Challenges (23:45): "Two thirds of each house of Congress stop the analysis as soon as it's. It's not going to happen."

• Supreme Court Concerns (40:50): "They are clearly beholden to Trump and so much so that I don't know that they are going to rule against him on anything."

• Voter Behavior and Trump Support (45:30): "MAGA people have it too, because MAGA people think that this guy is something more than what he is."

• Institutional Strength (50:15): "I believe that the Constitution is real. And that may sound like something everybody says, but, man, they don't live it."

This summary encapsulates the key discussions and insights from The Truth About Trump’s Third Term Rumors episode, providing a comprehensive overview for both regular listeners and newcomers alike.