A potential third presidential term for Donald Trump is on the table, buoyed by a $250 million offer that challenges the very core of the U.S. Constitution.
Story Highlights
- Miriam Adelson offers $250 million if Trump seeks a third term.
- Constitutional limits are at the center of the controversy.
- Legal avenues are explored by attorney Alan Dershowitz.
- Public debate over donor influence and constitutional norms intensifies.
Third Term Temptation: A Constitutional Challenge
At a White House Hanukkah reception on December 16, 2025, President Donald Trump publicly claimed that Miriam Adelson, a major Republican donor, offered him $250 million to pursue an unconstitutional third term. This revelation has sparked a heated debate over the implications for U.S. constitutional norms. The 22nd Amendment explicitly limits any individual from being elected to the presidency more than twice, making any discussion of a third term particularly contentious.
The offer, made in a public setting, has added fuel to the political firestorm, drawing attention to the potential for significant donor influence over political processes. Trump, known for his willingness to test political norms, appears to be considering the suggestion seriously.
Donor Influence and Legal Consultation
Miriam Adelson, along with her late husband Sheldon, has been instrumental in Republican fundraising, particularly for Trump. Her reported discussions with attorney Alan Dershowitz regarding the legal feasibility of a third term have only heightened concerns. Dershowitz, noted for his controversial legal opinions, may provide a legal framework that some could argue might allow such a move.
Adelson’s offer and her legal consultations underscore the complexities of donor influence and constitutional interpretation. The potential for such a huge financial contribution brings to light the significant power dynamics at play, where large sums of money could potentially steer political discourse and challenge established constitutional directives.
Public Reaction and Political Ramifications
The public reaction has been polarized, with Trump supporters viewing the possibility of a third term as a continuation of successful leadership, while critics see it as a brazen challenge to constitutional democracy. The Republican Party faces internal divisions, with some members supporting Trump’s potential third-term bid and others urging adherence to constitutional norms.
The discussions around a third term might embolden future leaders to test other constitutional boundaries, potentially leading to a significant shift in how U.S. political norms are perceived both domestically and internationally.
