What's happened
Alan Dershowitz met with Donald Trump and provided a draft of his new book exploring how a president might legally serve a third term. Trump plans to read it, despite constitutional limits, amid ongoing speculation about his political future and support from allies like Miriam Adelson.
What's behind the headline?
The story reveals a strategic attempt to challenge constitutional norms through legal and political maneuvers. Dershowitz's scenarios, such as Electoral College abstentions or Trump becoming Speaker of the House, are highly speculative and lack historical precedent, making them unlikely to succeed. The support from figures like Miriam Adelson, who pledged $250 million, underscores the influence of wealthy donors in shaping political narratives. Trump's ambiguous stance—initially denying and later hinting at a third run—serves to keep his base engaged and potentially sway future electoral strategies. This story exposes the underlying tension between constitutional law and political ambition, highlighting how legal loopholes and political support could be exploited to extend presidential power beyond the constitutional limits. The implications are significant, as they threaten to undermine the constitutional safeguards designed to prevent indefinite presidencies, and signal a potential shift in the political landscape if such strategies gain traction.
What the papers say
The Independent reports that Dershowitz handed Trump a draft of his book, which details scenarios for a third term, and that Trump’s supporters, including Miriam Adelson, are enthusiastic about the idea. The Times of Israel emphasizes the constitutional challenges and expert skepticism, with Dershowitz claiming the Constitution is not clear on the issue. The NY Post highlights Adelson’s support and her conversation with Dershowitz, illustrating the influence of wealthy donors in this political maneuvering. While some experts dismiss the legal viability of these scenarios, the story underscores the ongoing debate about constitutional limits and political ambition, with Trump’s hints and supporters’ enthusiasm fueling speculation about a possible third term despite legal barriers.
How we got here
The discussion stems from Trump's repeated hints at running again despite the 22nd Amendment, which limits presidents to two terms. Dershowitz's book outlines legal scenarios for a third term, including controversial ideas like Electoral College abstentions and congressional maneuvers. Trump has publicly acknowledged the constitutional barrier but continues to entertain the possibility, fueled by support from influential donors and allies who believe it could be legally feasible.
Go deeper
Common question
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Is Trump Planning a 2028 Presidential Run?
Recent reports suggest that former President Donald Trump is considering a bid for the 2028 election. While he has publicly denied immediate plans, hints from supporters and political analysts point to a possible third run for the presidency. This raises questions about his intentions, the support he has, and the legal hurdles he might face. Below, we explore the key details and what they could mean for the future of American politics.
More on these topics
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Alan Morton Dershowitz is an American lawyer and legal scholar known for his scholarship of U.S. constitutional law and American criminal law, and a noted advocate of civil liberties.
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Donald John Trump is an American politician, media personality, and businessman who served as the 45th president of the United States from 2017 to 2021.
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Miriam Adelson (née Farbstein; born October 10, 1945) is an Israeli-American physician, businesswoman, philanthropist, and conservative political donor. She was married to Sheldon Adelson until his death in 2021.
As of October 2025, estimates placed her.