Trump Teases Unconstitutional Third Term Bid as Poll Numbers Plummet: A Closer Look

On a recent episode of “A Closer Look,” comedian and late-night host Seth Meyers took aim at former President Donald Trump after Trump made headlines for refusing to rule out running for a third presidential term—a move that would violate the U.S. Constitution. Meyers dissected Trump’s remarks, the media’s reaction, and what it reveals about the current political climate as Trump’s poll numbers hit “new lows.”

Trump Hints at a Third Term—Despite Constitutional Ban

During a recent interview, Trump was asked directly whether he would seek a third term if re-elected in November. Instead of giving a straightforward answer, Trump responded with his signature bravado, saying he would “love to” run for a third term and playfully refused to rule it out. This comment immediately sparked outrage and speculation across social media and cable news, with pundits debating whether Trump was serious or simply trolling his critics.

However, as Meyers pointed out, the U.S. Constitution is clear: the 22nd Amendment explicitly limits presidents to two terms. No matter how much Trump might “love” to run for a third term, it is legally impossible.

Media Frenzy and Trump’s Troll Tactics

Meyers highlighted how Trump’s ambiguous and provocative statements are designed to bait the media and energize his supporters. By refusing to give a definitive answer, Trump creates a spectacle that keeps him at the center of public attention, even as his popularity wanes.

The segment showcased clips of cable news anchors expressing alarm over Trump’s remarks, with some framing it as a genuine threat to American democracy. Meyers, however, suggested that Trump’s comments are more likely a deliberate attempt to rile up the press and distract from his falling poll numbers.

Poll Numbers Hit “New Lows”

As Meyers noted, Trump’s teasing of a third term comes at a time when his approval ratings are plummeting. Recent polls show Trump trailing behind his Democratic rivals, fueling speculation about his future in politics. Meyers joked that Trump’s third-term talk might be an effort to shift the narrative away from his declining popularity and keep his base engaged.

Constitutional Reality

Meyers concluded by reminding viewers that, regardless of Trump’s rhetoric, the Constitution is not optional. The 22nd Amendment was ratified in 1951 to prevent any president from serving more than two terms—a direct response to Franklin D. Roosevelt’s four-term presidency. Any attempt to circumvent this rule would be met with immediate legal and political resistance.

Final Thoughts

Seth Meyers’ “A Closer Look” segment underscored the absurdity of Trump’s third-term tease, highlighting both the media’s tendency to overreact and Trump’s skill at manipulating headlines. While Trump’s comments may have succeeded in generating buzz, the constitutional limits remain firm, and his declining poll numbers suggest that his focus should be on winning a second term—if he can.