Amy Coney Barrett and Sonia Sotomayor on Presidential Term Limits

Justice Barrett on the 22nd Amendment

• ⚖️ Justice Amy Coney Barrett stated that the 22nd Amendment, which limits presidents to two terms, is "cut and dry."
• 📜 She explained that the amendment was added to the Constitution after Franklin Delano Roosevelt served more than two terms and died in office.
• 🏛️ This tradition of two-term presidencies was initially established by President George Washington.

Trump's 'Third Term' Talk and Allies' Efforts

• 🗣️ President Trump has frequently floated the idea of running for a third term, often couching it as a joke while pointing to his polling numbers and supporter enthusiasm.
• 📣 Allies, such as Steve Bannon, have publicly stated their belief that Trump will run and win again, indicating a serious consideration among some in his circle.
• 💡 Some allies are reportedly exploring avenues to make a third term possible, despite the constitutional amendment.

Congressional Attempts to Alter Term Limits

• 📜 Congressman Andy Ogles has introduced a bill proposing that presidents could run for a third term, specifically mentioning Trump as someone who should be given more time.
• ⚠️ The proposal suggests that while presidents shouldn't run for more than three terms, three terms could be permissible.

Republican and Democratic Stance on Term Limit Changes

• 🚫 Democratic votes are considered highly unlikely for any bill attempting to alter presidential term limits.
• 📉 For Republicans, particularly in the Senate, passing such legislation would be very tricky due to tight margins and potential for significant political fights.

Justice Sotomayor's Perspective

• 💬 Justice Sonia Sotomayor, in a separate appearance, stated that the Constitution is settled law "until somebody tries" to challenge it.
• 🤔 She suggested that because no one has yet attempted to challenge the 22nd Amendment, its practical application in an unprecedented situation remains to be seen, offering a slightly different nuance than Justice Barrett's view.