President Donald Trump has once again ignited controversy after revealing that “loopholes have been discussed” regarding a potential third term — even as his online store began selling “Trump 2028” hats.
The 78-year-old president, currently serving his second term, stirred further speculation this week when his campaign store unveiled the new merchandise, priced at $50.
“The future looks bright! Rewrite the rules with the Trump 2028 high crown hat,” the product description reads. “Fully embroidered with a snap closure in the back, this will become your new go-to hat.”
The move comes as Trump continues to float the idea of extending his time in the White House, despite the U.S. Constitution’s 22nd Amendment explicitly prohibiting any president from serving more than two elected terms.
Speaking to TIME Magazine, Trump was asked directly about his past remarks suggesting there were “methods” to bypass term limits. “I’d rather not discuss that now,” he said. “But as you know, there are some loopholes that have been discussed that are well known.”
Still, he added: “But I don’t believe in loopholes. I don’t believe in using loopholes.”
Trump declined to elaborate when pressed about one of the most widely speculated scenarios: a 2028 ticket featuring Vice President J.D. Vance at the top, with Trump as running mate, followed by Vance resigning — potentially elevating Trump back to the presidency. Instead, Trump shifted focus to touting his health and cognitive skills.
“I’m doing a good job,” Trump said. “Great physical exam, and unlike every other president, I took the cognitive test and I aced it 100%. I bet you guys couldn’t get 100% on that exam.”
He continued: “It’s a tough exam. When you get into the mid-questions, it gets pretty tricky, and the last questions are very tough. And I aced it.”
When reminded of his earlier pledge — made last year — to serve only one additional term, Trump replied: “Well, I’m serving two terms now.” Asked for clarification, he added: “I have more people begging me to run again, but I haven’t looked at even the possibility. The only thing that’s changed is they think I’m doing a great job.”
Trump’s remarks quickly drew reactions from political leaders across the aisle.
House Speaker Mike Johnson sought to downplay concerns, insisting there was “no serious move” underway to amend the Constitution. Senate Majority Leader John Thune told reporters he believed Trump was simply “messing with” the media and political opponents.
House Majority Leader Steve Scalise echoed the sentiment, describing Trump’s comments as “meant to get people talking,” according to The Independent.
Meanwhile, Attorney General Pam Bondi weighed in, saying: “I wish we could have him for 20 years as our president, but I think he’s gonna be finished probably after this term.”
Constitutional scholars have been quick to point out that overturning the 22nd Amendment would be extremely difficult. It would require either a two-thirds vote in both houses of Congress or a two-thirds majority of states calling for a constitutional convention — both scenarios considered highly unlikely in today’s polarized political climate.
Despite the constitutional roadblocks, Trump’s teasing of a 2028 run, coupled with the new merchandise, signals he has no plans to step away quietly — and is willing to keep both supporters and critics guessing about his next move.