President Donald Trump, who was first elected in 2016, lost the 2020 election but returned to power in 2024, has sparked plenty of buzz by teasing a potential third term in 2028. However, a new poll reveals that Americans are largely against the idea, even though Trump has hinted that he may run for a third time.
At a rally in Nevada earlier this year, Trump mused, “It will be the greatest honor of my life to serve, not once but twice or three times or four times.” This comment, made less than a week after his 2024 inauguration, quickly caught the attention of the media. Though Trump later downplayed the remark, claiming he meant to serve twice, the idea of a third term has lingered.
“I am not joking about it,” Trump said in a recent interview, further fueling speculation about a 2028 run. He added that many people are urging him to consider it, but he insists it’s still too early to make any decisions.
Despite Trump’s comments, a new poll paints a different picture of public sentiment. The survey, conducted by Reuters/Ipsos from April 16 to 21, found that a significant majority of Americans—three out of four—are against Trump seeking a third term. Even among Republicans, 53% expressed opposition to the idea.
The obstacle to Trump’s third-term ambitions is the 22nd Amendment, which limits U.S. presidents to two terms. This amendment was passed after Franklin D. Roosevelt served four terms, and it remains a key safeguard in U.S. political structure.
With a clear majority of Americans rejecting the notion of a third term, it remains to be seen whether Trump will continue to entertain the idea as he eyes 2028.
