Trump rules out third-term speculation, names Vance, Rubio as potential successors

President Donald Trump has officially ruled out a third presidential run, ending speculation fuelled by his campaign’s 2028-themed merchandise and earlier comments suggesting constitutional “loopholes” might allow him to serve more than two terms.

Trump expressed confidence that the MAGA movement would continue, supported by a “tremendous group of people” ready to step up when he steps down.

In an interview with Kristen Welker, moderator of NBC’s Meet the Press, Trump confirmed he will leave the White House after two terms and named Vice President JD Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio as possible successors to the movement he calls “the greatest political movement in history.”

Despite earlier refusals to endorse anyone, Trump named Vice President JD Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio as top prospects to carry forward his “Make America Great Again” (MAGA) movement.

He praised Vance as a “fantastic, brilliant guy,” and described Rubio as “great,” noting the strength and unity within the Republican Party. However, Trump emphasized it was too early to designate a successor.

Pressed on whether Vance had an edge for 2028, Trump acknowledged, “But certainly you would say that somebody’s the VP, if that person is outstanding, I guess that person would have an advantage,” Still, he stopped short of a direct endorsement and insisted other top Republicans would remain in “unbelievably high positions.”

Rubio’s role in the Trump administration has expanded significantly. In addition to serving as Secretary of State, he was recently appointed interim National Security Adviser after Trump dismissed Mike Waltz, whom he now plans to nominate as US ambassador to the United Nations.

Trump also mentioned Rubio’s involvement with other federal agencies and referenced Henry Kissinger as precedent for holding multiple top posts.

Earlier this year, Trump hinted that he received encouragement from GOP members to run again in 2028, despite the 22nd Amendment, which prohibits a president from being elected more than twice.

He even floated the idea of running as Vance’s vice president and potentially taking over if Vance resigned — an idea critics quickly flagged as constitutionally questionable.

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