VIDEO: Trump confirms he will not seek third term as president

In a recent interview with NBC News, US President Donald Trump gave a definitive statement about his future plans, confirming that he will step down from the White House at the end of his second term.

The remarks came as he acknowledged the legal constraints preventing him from seeking a third term. “I’ll be an eight-year president, I’ll be a two-term president,” Trump told NBC’s Kristen Welker.

Read more: Trump says, “I’m not joking” about seeking a third term in office

Although Trump had previously entertained the possibility of a third run, he clarified that constitutional limitations are standing in the way.

“It’s something that, to the best of my knowledge, you’re not allowed to do,” he said, referring to the 22nd Amendment which restricts any individual from being elected to the presidency more than twice. The process to amend the Constitution to lift the term limit is a daunting one, requiring substantial support across the House, Senate, and state legislatures.

Despite this, the notion of a potential third term for Trump had garnered significant attention, particularly after the Trump Organization began selling "Trump 2028" hats, hinting at the possibility of a third presidential bid. However, Trump distanced himself from such speculation, stating, “There are many people selling the 2028 hat, but this is not something I’m looking to do.”

In the same interview, Trump turned his attention to the future of the Republican Party, naming several rising figures who could carry on his political legacy. Among those he praised were Vice President JD Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio. While Trump refrained from naming Vance as his direct successor, he acknowledged that the vice president could have an advantage in a Republican primary due to his outstanding qualities.

Read more: From democracy to dictatorship: Trump allies seek to extend presidency

Trump also highlighted Rubio’s contributions to his administration, calling him a “great” potential leader of the Republican Party. Rubio has held multiple significant roles in the Trump administration, including acting head of the National Archives and national security adviser. Trump expressed confidence in Rubio’s abilities, although he indicated that Rubio would not stay in his current role indefinitely.

While the 2028 presidential race seems distant, Trump emphasized that his immediate focus remains on the 2026 midterm elections, where Republicans will face challenges in maintaining control of Congress. Trump plans to play a pivotal role in the midterms, leveraging his fundraising capabilities to assist the Republican Party.

Despite his controversial use of executive power, particularly with regard to tariffs and diversity policies, Trump is optimistic about the Republican Party’s prospects in the midterm elections, stating, “I think we’re going to turn that around. I think we’re going to turn it around easy.”