Post by : Rameen Ariff

Aboard Air Force One during his Asia trip, US President Trump told reporters he would be open to the idea of running again in 2028, responding to former adviser Steve Bannon’s suggestion by saying he “would love to do it.”

Trump asserted he enjoys strong approval figures and added that he “hasn’t really thought about” the next campaign, a casual remark that nevertheless revived debate in Washington despite the constitutional two-term limit.

In the same exchange, the president discussed the future leadership of the Republican Party and pointed to two figures he regards as likely successors: Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Vice President J.D. Vance.

“We have some really good people,” Trump said, gesturing toward Rubio and praising Vance’s role in the administration. He suggested neither would easily face serious primary opposition.

Both Rubio and Vance have emerged as prominent voices under Trump’s presidency — Rubio noted for his role on foreign policy and Vance for his staunch conservatism and public alignment with the president’s agenda.

Analysts interpreted Trump’s comments as a move to underscore his continued influence within the Republican Party and to signal policy continuity beyond his term. Constitutional experts quickly reiterated that the 22nd Amendment prevents a president from being elected to more than two terms, making a literal third elected term impossible.

Trump’s remarks came while he continues an Asia tour that included a brief stop in Malaysia before arriving in Tokyo. In Malaysia he attended the ASEAN Summit and signed agreements on trade and rare earth minerals.

The president also highlighted a newly announced peace accord between Thailand and Cambodia, calling the development a “historic achievement” and framing the outcome as a major diplomatic success.

Posting on Truth Social after leaving Malaysia, Trump wrote: “Just leaving Malaysia, a great and vibrant country. Signed major trade and rare earth deals, and most importantly, the peace treaty between Thailand and Cambodia. NO WAR! Millions of lives saved. Such an honor to have gotten this done. Now, off to Japan!!!”

With the Asia trip aimed at deepening economic and strategic ties across the region, Trump’s offhand reference to the 2028 race is expected to fuel political discussions at home even as he pursues diplomatic goals abroad.

#Global