By John Q. Hosedrinker 
Following a recent speech in Davos, Switzerland, where former President Trump made several notable misstatements and criticized European leaders, calls for the 25th Amendment have resurfaced on social media. These calls were prompted by concerns over Trump’s speech style and perceived cognitive decline. Such calls for the 25th Amendment would require his cabinet to reach the conclusion that the president is unable to discharge the duties of his office, which seems unlikely. While some Democratic lawmakers and commentators have expressed concerns and support for the 25th Amendment, White House officials have maintained that the speech was a success.
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Calls to invoke the 25th Amendment against Trump, especially after his recent Davos speech, seem to be picking up steam, but it’s important to understand the realities of such a move. It’s easy to see why the idea gains traction. His speeches are often… well, let’s just say they raise eyebrows. The concern is that his ability to govern effectively might be compromised, and the 25th Amendment is, on paper, a way to address such situations.
However, the path to invoking the 25th is incredibly complex and faces significant hurdles. The amendment allows for the Vice President and a majority of the Cabinet to declare the President unfit to serve, but then the President can dispute that. After that, it becomes a Congressional battle, requiring a two-thirds vote in both the House and Senate to remove him. Realistically, given the current political climate, this is a very long shot. Many perceive it as a pipe dream or even clickbait, as it would require significant cooperation from those currently unwilling to challenge him.
A common sentiment is that the GOP, particularly in Congress, seems unwilling to hold Trump accountable. Finding Republicans willing to publicly identify any “red lines” he can’t cross appears difficult, which is alarming. Furthermore, many feel his supporters are entrenched, dismissing or accepting behavior that would be considered unacceptable for any other public figure. The idea of him facing consequences feels like a distant fantasy, with some even joking about him being wheeled onto a stage, oblivious to reality, and his followers still cheering.
Another significant issue is the potential for the removal process to be subverted. Even if the Cabinet were to act, a determined President could send a letter to Congress claiming fitness, triggering a complex and potentially drawn-out legal fight. Moreover, the fear of political repercussions looms large. Cabinet members and Republicans who supported such a move would risk being fired or facing primary challenges. This is why many view impeachment, even if unsuccessful in the Senate, as a more feasible, albeit still challenging, route.
Furthermore, there is a distinct sentiment that those who seek to invoke the 25th Amendment are often doing so to make it seem as though they are doing something, when in reality it is an even harder route to take than impeachment. The amendment would be difficult to pursue since the same individuals would be required to impeach the President. Many see these calls as coming primarily from those on the left, which might be why Republicans are unlikely to participate in the process.
Some commentators also point out that invoking the 25th Amendment might not achieve the desired outcome. Trump’s supporters might be more energized by such a move, potentially leading to further political division. He might become a martyr for his base. The focus then shifts to the state of America, with some believing that the damage has already been done, and that the country is on a path towards deeper division and potential social unrest.
Even if Trump were removed, the fundamental problems within the system would likely remain. The underlying issues that fueled his rise and sustain his support would not disappear. Many believe that the Republicans have wanted this for decades, meaning the underlying issues will persist long after Trump is gone.
Finally, there’s the harsh reality of the situation. Some believe that Trump is unwell, and that it is cruel to leave him under such stress. But, it is viewed as something that may not come to pass, particularly in the current political climate. The focus then shifts to other possible avenues for his removal, whether they be impeachment or potentially his death, with the thought that his children could continue the work that he began.