In recent weeks, the question can Trump run for vice president in 2028 has become a trending topic in American political discussions. With Donald Trump remaining a central figure in national politics, many are curious whether he could legally serve as vice president after completing two presidential terms. Here’s the factual breakdown of what the U.S. Constitution allows — and what it does not.
Table of Contents
Current Update
As of late October 2025, Donald Trump has publicly dismissed the idea of running as vice president in 2028, stating that he has no interest in the role. Despite his comments, legal experts and political observers continue to discuss whether such a move would even be constitutional.
The debate focuses on the U.S. Constitution’s 22nd and 12th Amendments, which together define presidential and vice-presidential eligibility. Based on these laws, Trump’s path to becoming vice president in 2028 is effectively blocked.
Key Constitutional Provisions
1. The Twenty-Second Amendment
The 22nd Amendment limits any individual to being elected president no more than twice. Donald Trump was elected in 2016 and 2024, which means he has already reached that constitutional limit. Therefore, he cannot be elected to the presidency again.
2. The Twelfth Amendment
The 12th Amendment states that no person who is constitutionally ineligible to serve as president can hold the office of vice president. This clause directly links presidential eligibility to vice-presidential eligibility — if you cannot be president, you cannot be vice president either.
When read together, these two amendments prevent a twice-elected president from serving as vice president in the future.
Why Legal Scholars Say He Can’t Run for Vice President
Legal scholars and constitutional experts overwhelmingly agree that Trump cannot legally run for vice president in 2028. Their reasoning is straightforward:
- The 22nd Amendment makes him ineligible to be elected president again.
- The 12th Amendment prevents anyone ineligible for the presidency from becoming vice president.
- Therefore, Trump is constitutionally barred from holding the vice-presidential office.
The logic is consistent with the intent behind both amendments — to prevent any person from serving more than two terms as president, either directly or indirectly.
Arguments That Have Been Raised — And Why They Don’t Hold Up
Some political commentators have speculated about a possible loophole: that Trump could run as vice president, win the election, and then become president again if the sitting president were to resign.
However, constitutional experts have consistently dismissed this idea for several reasons:
- The 12th Amendment explicitly forbids a person ineligible for the presidency from being vice president.
- Allowing a twice-elected president to take the vice-presidential office would undermine the clear intent of the 22nd Amendment.
- There is no legal precedent or credible interpretation of the Constitution that supports such a move.
In short, the so-called “loophole theory” has no practical or legal basis under current U.S. law.
Political Developments and Statements
While Trump himself has brushed off the idea of running for vice president, political speculation persists. Some of his supporters view him as a potential power figure behind the scenes in 2028, even if he cannot appear on the ballot.
Republican strategists are reportedly focusing on grooming new leaders for the post-Trump era. At the same time, Trump’s influence over the party remains significant, particularly through endorsements and policy direction.
Still, the official and legal consensus is clear: Trump cannot run for vice president in 2028.
Summary Table: Can Trump Run for Vice President in 2028?
| Question | Answer | Explanation |
|---|---|---|
| Has Trump already served two presidential terms? | Yes | He was elected in 2016 and 2024. |
| Does the 22nd Amendment bar a third term as president? | Yes | It limits presidents to two elections. |
| Does the 12th Amendment apply to vice-presidential eligibility? | Yes | It bars anyone ineligible for president from being vice president. |
| Can Trump run for vice president in 2028? | No | He is constitutionally ineligible. |
| Is there a “loophole” through succession or resignation? | No | It contradicts constitutional intent and established interpretation. |
Implications for the 2028 Election and Beyond
Trump’s ineligibility for the vice presidency means that Republicans must look elsewhere for leadership in the 2028 election cycle. His political influence, however, remains strong. He could play a major role as a kingmaker, campaign supporter, or strategist.
The question of eligibility also underscores the durability of the U.S. Constitution’s checks and balances. The amendments were written to ensure that no individual could dominate the executive branch beyond two terms, directly or indirectly.
While some voters continue to debate whether Trump should be allowed to return to higher office, the law as written provides a clear and definitive answer: he cannot serve as vice president.
Final Thoughts
In summary, the answer to “can Trump run for vice president in 2028” is no under current constitutional law. Both the 22nd and 12th Amendments make it impossible for a twice-elected president to serve as vice president. Even Trump himself has said he has no plans to pursue the position. Unless the Constitution is amended — a process requiring overwhelming national approval — this issue is settled.
Do you think the Constitution should ever be changed to allow more than two presidential terms? Share your thoughts below and join the discussion.