Proposed Constitutional Amendment by Andy Ogles to Allow Three Presidential Terms

White House with fountain and flowers in foreground.

A Tennessee Republican proposes a constitutional amendment to allow presidents three terms, sparking debate and controversy.

Quick Takes

  • Rep. Andy Ogles introduces resolution for three presidential terms, with a maximum of two consecutive
  • Amendment aimed at allowing Donald Trump to potentially serve a third term
  • Proposal faces significant hurdles, requiring two-thirds support in Congress and ratification by 38 states
  • Critics view the move as unconstitutional and a threat to democratic norms

Constitutional Amendment Proposal Shakes Political Landscape

Representative Andy Ogles, a Republican from Tennessee, has introduced a resolution to amend the Constitution, allowing U.S. presidents to serve up to three terms, with no more than two consecutively. This bold move aims to modify the 22nd Amendment, which has limited presidents to two terms since its ratification in 1951, following Franklin D. Roosevelt’s unprecedented four-term presidency.

Ogles, a member of the Trump-aligned House Freedom Caucus, argues that this amendment is necessary to facilitate leadership capable of implementing significant national change and recovery. The proposal comes shortly after Donald Trump was sworn in for a second nonconsecutive term as President, raising questions about the motivations behind this constitutional shift.

Trump’s Influence and Republican Support

The amendment proposal appears tailored to benefit former President Donald Trump, who has previously joked about serving more than two terms. Ogles explicitly stated his belief in Trump’s unique capabilities, saying:

“[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

This move highlights Trump’s strong support within the House GOP and aligns with his “America First” policy. Ogles criticized President Biden’s impact on America’s reputation and expressed readiness to support Trump’s agenda.

Challenges and Opposition

The proposed amendment faces significant hurdles. Changing the Constitution requires two-thirds support from both houses of Congress or state legislatures, followed by ratification by three-fourths of state legislatures or conventions. With Republicans holding only a narrow majority in the House and the proposal unlikely to gain Democratic support, its passage seems improbable.

Critics, including Democratic representatives, have voiced strong opposition to the amendment. Representative Steve Cohen stated:

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

The proposal has also reignited discussions about term limits and presidential power. Some view it as an attempt to normalize unconstitutional ideas, while others see it as a necessary step to allow experienced leaders to continue their work.

Broader Implications and Future Scenarios

While the amendment’s chances of ratification are slim, it has sparked debate about the nature of presidential terms and the balance of power in American democracy. Alternative scenarios for extending a president’s influence have been discussed, including running for vice president or influencing a family member’s presidency.

Ogles’ other legislative efforts, such as the “Make Greenland Great Again Act,” which proposes negotiating the purchase of Greenland from Denmark, further reflect the ongoing influence of Trump’s policy ideas within the Republican party.

As the political landscape continues to evolve, this proposed amendment serves as a reminder of the ongoing debates surrounding presidential power, term limits, and the future direction of American politics.

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