Tennessee Representative Andy Ogles Proposes Constitutional Amendment for Three Presidential Terms

White building with columns behind a black fence.

A bold move to amend the Constitution could pave the way for a third Trump term, sparking intense debate across the political spectrum.

Key Insights

  • Rep. Andy Ogles proposes a constitutional amendment allowing presidents to serve three terms, with no more than two consecutive.
  • The amendment is specifically tailored to enable Donald Trump’s potential return to the presidency.
  • The current 22nd Amendment, limiting presidents to two terms, was ratified in 1951 after FDR’s four-term presidency.
  • The proposal faces significant hurdles, requiring two-thirds support in Congress and ratification by three-fourths of state legislatures.
  • Critics argue the amendment undermines democratic norms and constitutional principles.

Ogles’ Proposal: A Third Term for Trump?

Tennessee Representative Andy Ogles has introduced a resolution to amend the U.S. Constitution, potentially allowing former President Donald Trump to serve a third term. The proposed amendment would permit a president to serve three terms in total, with the caveat that no more than two can be consecutive. This move comes shortly after Trump’s hypothetical swearing-in for a second nonconsecutive term as President.

Ogles, a member of the Trump-aligned House Freedom Caucus, argues that this change is necessary to cultivate transformative national leadership. He specifically points to Trump as the catalyst for this proposal, stating:

“[Trump] has proven himself to be the only figure in modern history capable of reversing our nation’s decay and restoring America to greatness, and he must be given the time necessary to accomplish that goal.” – Ogles

The proposal has ignited a firestorm of debate, with supporters viewing it as a necessary step to continue Trump’s “America First” agenda, while critics decry it as an assault on democratic norms.

Historical Context and Constitutional Hurdles

The current two-term limit for U.S. presidents is enshrined in the 22nd Amendment, ratified in 1951 as a response to Franklin D. Roosevelt’s unprecedented four-term presidency. This amendment has been a cornerstone of American democracy for over seven decades, ensuring a regular transfer of power.

Changing the Constitution is no small feat. The process requires two-thirds support from both houses of Congress or state legislatures, followed by ratification by three-fourths of state legislatures or conventions. This high bar makes Ogles’ proposal a long shot, especially given the current political climate and narrow Republican majority in the House.

Political Reactions and Implications

The amendment proposal has drawn sharp criticism from Democrats and some Republicans. Representative Steve Cohen expressed his disapproval, stating:

“Two terms is enough chaos for any nation to endure.” – Steve Cohen

Critics argue that the amendment is a thinly veiled attempt to consolidate power and undermine the principles of term limits. Some see it as part of a broader trend of normalizing unconstitutional ideas within certain political circles.

Supporters of the amendment, however, view it as a necessary step to continue what they see as positive changes initiated during Trump’s presidency. Ogles himself has doubled down on his support for Trump’s policies, even proposing a separate bill dubbed the “Make Greenland Great Again Act,” which would authorize Trump to negotiate the purchase of Greenland from Denmark.

While the amendment faces significant obstacles and is unlikely to be ratified, its introduction highlights the strong support Trump continues to enjoy within certain factions of the Republican Party. It also underscores the ongoing debate about the nature of presidential power and the appropriate limits on executive authority in the United States.

Sources:

  1. Lawmaker unveils constitutional amendment to give Trump third term | Fox News
  2. Republican floats Constitutional amendment to allow Trump a third term
  3. House GOP measure would let Trump seek third term
  4. Constitutional amendment to allow Trump third term introduced in the House