U.S. President Donald Trump has dismissed suggestions that he might seek to return to the White House through a vice presidential run in 2028, calling the idea “too cute” and “not right,” even as allies float legal theories to extend his grip on power beyond constitutional limits.
Speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One, Trump acknowledged that, in theory, he “would be allowed” to run as vice president after his current second term, but firmly rejected the possibility.
“I wouldn’t do it,” Trump said. “It’s too cute. It wouldn’t be right.”
Trump, now 79, began his second presidential term in January, having previously served from 2017 to 2021. Under the 22nd Amendment, U.S. presidents are limited to two elected terms.
However, some of Trump’s supporters and conservative commentators have speculated that the former president could circumvent the rule by becoming vice president — and then returning to power if the sitting president were to step down.
‘Trump 2028’ Movement Gains Attention
The speculation intensified after Trump was recently seen with “Trump 2028” red hats displayed on his Oval Office desk, fueling talk of an effort to keep him in the political spotlight beyond his term.
Among his ardent supporters, a popular theory proposes that Vice President JD Vance could run for president in 2028 with Trump as his running mate — only for Vance to resign shortly after taking office, thereby restoring Trump to the presidency.
Trump’s latest comments appear aimed at quelling those rumours, though they underscore the deep loyalty and almost mythic fervour surrounding his political base.
Bannon Hints at ‘Plan’ to Keep Trump in Power
The speculation was further stoked by Steve Bannon, Trump’s former chief strategist and one of the key figures behind the Make America Great Again movement.
In an interview with The Economist, Bannon boldly declared that “there is a plan” to ensure Trump remains in power.
“He is going to get a third term… Trump is going to be president in ’28. And people just ought to get accommodated with that,” Bannon said.
When asked about the 22nd Amendment, Bannon was cryptic:
“There are many different alternatives. At the appropriate time, we’ll lay out what the plan is.”
Trump’s Future Still a Political Wild Card
While Trump has publicly brushed aside the notion of a vice-presidential bid, his influence over the Republican Party and his dominance of U.S. politics remain undiminished.
With speculation swirling over 2028 and beyond, Trump’s remarks suggest that even as he distances himself from constitutional loopholes, the conversation around his political future — and America’s democracy — is far from over.
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