By Matt Underwood The recent chatter about Donald Trump potentially running for a third term has sparked a flurry of reactions, with some Democrats pushing for a clarification of the 22nd Amendment. The 22nd Amendment, ratified in 1951, clearly states that “No person shall be elected to the office of the President more than twice.” However, the ambiguity lies in Trump’s constant hinting at running again despite having already served two terms. This has led some to believe that he might try to circumvent the amendment, either by arguing that his first term was illegitimate or by finding a loophole through the amendment’s wording.
While Trump’s pronouncements seem more like tongue-in-cheek remarks than serious intentions, his past actions have shown a disregard for constitutional norms. His supporters, known for their blind allegiance, are likely to endorse any maneuver he makes, regardless of its legality. It’s this potential for chaos that worries some Democrats, who are concerned about a future where Trump could potentially claim a third term based on his supporters’ unwavering faith in him.
The proposed clarification of the 22nd Amendment aims to prevent any potential ambiguity in its interpretation. This could involve explicitly stating that the two-term limit applies to consecutive terms, leaving no room for arguments about non-consecutive terms or “stolen” terms. The debate, however, extends beyond the 22nd Amendment. Some argue that the 14th Amendment, Section 3, could also be used to prevent Trump from holding office. This section disqualifies anyone who has previously taken an oath to support the Constitution but later engaged in insurrection or rebellion. Given Trump’s role in the January 6th insurrection, some argue that he is already ineligible to hold office.
However, this approach presents its own challenges. Clarifying the 14th Amendment could backfire, potentially giving Trump and his legal team a platform to challenge the constitutionality of such a move. The Supreme Court, currently dominated by conservative justices, is likely to rule in favor of Trump, making it a risky strategy for Democrats.
This entire scenario hinges on the assumption that Trump intends to run for a third term. While his pronouncements are often veiled in ambiguity, his recent focus on undermining democratic institutions and his consistent attacks on the legitimacy of the 2020 election raise concerns about his intentions. Some believe that Trump’s strategy might involve a deliberate attempt to create chaos and exploit the system’s weaknesses.
Regardless of Trump’s true intentions, the debate over the 22nd Amendment exposes a deeper worry about the potential erosion of democratic norms. Trump’s constant testing of boundaries and his willingness to exploit loopholes threaten the foundations of American democracy. While the debate over the 22nd Amendment is currently a hypothetical one, it serves as a stark reminder of the fragility of democratic institutions and the need for vigilance in protecting them.