05 May,2026 08:31 AM IST | Washington | mid-day online correspondent
US President Donald Trump. Pic/AFP
US President Donald Trump sparked laughter and renewed political debate after joking about the possibility of remaining in office for "another eight or nine years," despite constitutional limits restricting US presidents to two terms. The remark was made during a business-focused event at the White House, where Trump addressed entrepreneurs and industry leaders, reported ANI.
Speaking at the White House Small Business Summit, Trump made a light-hearted comment suggesting he could continue as president beyond the usual tenure. Referring to tax-cut legislation aimed at benefiting businesses, he said that when he leaves office "in eight or nine years," he might personally benefit from those policies. The comment drew laughter and applause from attendees, many of whom were business leaders present at the summit, reported ANI.
Despite the humour, the remark touches on a significant legal boundary. Under the Twenty-Second Amendment of the US Constitution, no individual can be elected US President more than twice. Trump is currently serving his second term, meaning he would not be eligible to run again under existing law. Any extension beyond this would require a constitutional amendment, a process widely considered highly unlikely, reported ANI.
This is not the first time Trump has hinted at the idea of extending his tenure. In earlier remarks during 2025, he stated that many supporters had encouraged him to remain in office longer. While he described those suggestions as premature, he also expressed enthusiasm for continuing his work, saying he enjoys the role and is serious about his commitment. Such comments have periodically stirred speculation among political observers.
During the same address, Trump pivoted to foreign policy, particularly tensions involving Iran. He linked economic performance with national security, arguing that maintaining pressure on Iran is essential to preventing nuclear escalation. Reiterating his stance, he said the United States must ensure that Iran does not acquire nuclear weapons, reported ANI.
Trump also emphasised the strength of the United States military presence in the region, claiming overwhelming superiority over Iran's capabilities. He asserted that Iran's military infrastructure and leadership had been significantly weakened, repeating earlier claims about the country's limited defence systems and reduced operational strength, reported ANI.
The remarks, while partly humorous, highlight ongoing political and constitutional discussions surrounding presidential term limits, as well as continuing tensions in US foreign policy.
(With inputs from ANI)
