The NPR Politics Podcast: Trump & Presidential Term Limits – Detailed Summary

Release Date: April 1, 2025

Introduction

In the April 1, 2025 episode of The NPR Politics Podcast, hosts Deepa Shivaram, Hansi Le Wang, and Domenico Montanaro delve into a provocative topic: former President Donald Trump's recent comments about the possibility of securing a third term in office. This episode examines the constitutional implications, potential methods Trump might employ, political strategies behind his statements, and the broader impact on American democracy.

Trump's Comments on a Third Term

The episode opens with Deepa Shivaram introducing the central discussion: Trump's remarks during an NBC News interview where he hinted at the possibility of running for a third presidential term. Specifically, Trump stated,

"A lot of people want me to do it," and "there are methods which you could do it." ([01:01] Donald Trump)

However, he also indicated a temporary retreat from the notion during an Oval Office discussion, noting,

"I have not looked into it. I want to do a fantastic job. We have four years... we're getting a lot of credit for having done a great job in the first almost 100 days." ([01:26] Donald Trump)

Constitutional Term Limits Explained

Hansi Le Wang provides a comprehensive overview of the constitutional framework governing presidential term limits. She explains that the 22nd Amendment explicitly restricts any individual from being elected to the presidency more than twice, a reaction to Franklin D. Roosevelt's unprecedented four-term presidency.

"No person shall be elected to the office of the president more than twice." ([02:03])

Wang highlights that while the amendment sets clear boundaries, Trump suggests alternative methods to circumvent these restrictions, such as assuming the role of Vice President and ascending to the presidency should the current officeholder's position become vacant.

Potential Methods for a Third Term

The hosts explore the unconventional avenues Trump might consider to attain a third term:

1. Vice Presidency Ascension: By becoming Vice President, Trump could potentially assume the presidency if the president steps down, resigns, or is removed from office. However, the 12th Amendment poses legal challenges, stating:

   "No person constitutionally ineligible to the office of President shall be eligible to that of Vice President..." ([02:36])

   Wang notes that some legal scholars argue the original constitutional requirements for presidency—being a natural-born citizen, at least 35 years old, and a resident for 14 years—might not preclude a two-term president from becoming Vice President.

2. Speaker of the House: Another theory discussed by Domenico Montanaro is that Trump could be elected Speaker of the House, positioning him second in the presidential line of succession. By orchestrating the resignations of the President and Vice President, Trump could ascend to the presidency. However, this method is deemed highly convoluted and unlikely to materialize.

Political Implications and Strategies

Montanaro and Shivaram analyze the political motivations behind Trump's statements. They suggest that by floating the idea of a third term, Trump aims to:

• Maintain Relevance: Trump seeks to avoid being perceived as a "lame duck," especially if electoral prospects in future elections are uncertain.

• Distract from Negative News: With ongoing controversies, such as the recent Signal chat group issue and impending tariffs affecting consumer prices, diverting attention to potential electoral maneuvers serves as a strategic distraction.

• Mobilize the Republican Base: Discussing extended leadership can energize Trump's supporters, reinforcing his standing within the party despite never having secured an approval rating above 50%.

Montanaro remarks:

"This is like the biggest nightmare that they could possibly have... it creates a degree of anxiety among Democrats... they kind of smirk at and think is kind of hilarious." ([09:43])

Expert Opinions and Constitutional Amendments

Hansi Le Wang brings in insights from constitutional experts, particularly referencing Bruce Peabody, a professor at Fairleigh Dickinson University. Peabody discusses the feasibility of amending the Constitution to allow a third term, emphasizing the significant hurdle of requiring a three-quarters majority in both Congress and the states—a feat that currently lacks traction.

"Right now, essentially, the nation is on notice, and it has the power to act through a new constitutional amendment." ([10:08])

Additionally, Rep. Andy Ogles of Tennessee's proposal to modify the Constitution would permit a president to be elected three times, provided the additional term is not consecutive. This move appears tailored to benefit Trump while excluding other potential candidates like Barack Obama.

Public Sentiment and Voter Response

When discussing public perception, Shivaram inquires about how ordinary voters react to the notion of altering constitutional term limits. Wang notes a general skepticism among the populace, with many viewing Trump's remarks as a distraction from more pressing issues. There's a prevalent understanding and acceptance of the 22nd Amendment's restrictions, though some legal ambiguities remain regarding its interpretation.

Historical Context and Precedents

Domenico Montanaro provides historical parallels, pointing out that Trump isn't the first president to entertain the idea of extended terms. Past leaders like Barack Obama, Ronald Reagan, and Bill Clinton have all, at various times, toyed with the concept—ranging from confident re-election campaigns to theoretical discussions about constitutional changes. Despite these musings, none have pursued such paths, reinforcing the improbability of Trump successfully securing a third term through unconventional means.

Conclusion

The episode concludes with the hosts emphasizing the speculative nature of Trump's comments on a third term. While the constitutional barriers are formidable and historical precedents suggest such ambitions are rare, Trump's statements serve broader strategic purposes within the political landscape. By keeping the conversation alive, he maintains a central role in political discourse, galvanizing his base and challenging opponents.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Donald Trump (@01:01):

  "A lot of people want me to do it. There are methods which you could do it."

• Donald Trump (@01:26):

  "I have not looked into it. I want to do a fantastic job. We have four years, just about almost close to four years. It's time is flying, but it's still close to four years."

• Hansi Le Wang (@02:03):

  "No person shall be elected to the office of the president more than twice."

• Domenico Montanaro (@05:08):

  "This idea is not seen as very much a likelihood at all, but we have to take Trump literally and seriously."

• Domenico Montanaro (@09:43):

  "This is like the biggest nightmare that they could possibly have... it creates a degree of anxiety among Democrats."

• Hansi Le Wang (@10:08):

  "Right now, essentially, the nation is on notice, and it has the power to act through a new constitutional amendment."

Final Thoughts

This episode of The NPR Politics Podcast navigates the complex and contentious topic of presidential term limits in the context of Trump's recent statements. By dissecting constitutional provisions, potential loopholes, and the strategic motivations behind political maneuvers, the hosts provide listeners with a nuanced understanding of what a third Trump term could entail for the United States. The discussion underscores the importance of constitutional safeguards and the ever-evolving dynamics of American politics.