Former U.S. President Donald Trump has clarified that he has no intention of seeking a third term in office, emphasizing his commitment to the constitutional two-term limit. In a recent interview on NBC’s Meet the Press with Kristen Welker, Trump stated, “I’ll be an eight-year president, I’ll be a two-term president. I always thought that was very important.”

At 78 years old, Trump has previously made comments suggesting a desire to serve more than two terms, remarks he later attributed to provoking media reactions. Despite such rhetoric, merchandise from his company—such as hats labeled “Trump 2028”—has sparked public speculation about his political intentions beyond a second term.

Speaking from his Florida residence, Trump acknowledged receiving encouragement from supporters to consider extending his tenure. “So many people want me to do it,” he said, days after celebrating 100 days into what would be his second term. He added, however, that “to the best of my knowledge, you’re not allowed to do it,” referring to constitutional limits.

Trump also referenced others in the Republican Party he sees as potential successors, including Vice President JD Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio. The 22nd Amendment to the U.S. Constitution explicitly prohibits anyone from being elected president more than twice. Amending this would require a rigorous legislative and state-level approval process.

While some allies have speculated about possible legal loopholes, Trump did not endorse these views directly, saying only that “many people have said different things.”

Comments on Economy and Tariffs

In the same interview, Trump defended his economic policies amid criticism that his tariff strategies had strained the U.S. and global economies, contributing to a recent contraction in U.S. GDP. He dismissed these concerns, characterizing the current situation as a “transition period” and expressing confidence in a future economic rebound.

Pressed on the possibility of continued economic decline, Trump remained optimistic: “Anything can happen. But I think we’re going to have the greatest economy in the history of our country.”

He also indicated that tariffs could become a permanent fixture of U.S. trade policy, arguing that their removal might deter companies from investing in domestic manufacturing.

Addressing concerns about reduced consumer choice due to ongoing trade disputes, Trump responded, “They don’t need 30 dolls. They can have three. They don’t need 250 pencils. They can have five.”