US President Donald Trump has announced plans to visit Qatar, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), and Saudi Arabia next month. The announcement was made while he was signing executive orders in the Oval Office.
When asked if the trip would take place in May as reported, Trump responded, “It could be next month, maybe a little bit later.”
Trump reiterated that he chose Saudi Arabia as his first foreign destination due to Riyadh’s commitment to investing nearly USD 1 trillion in US companies, as reported by the Times of Israel.
Meanwhile, in a phone interview with NBC News on Sunday, Trump stirred controversy by suggesting that he might seek a third term in office, despite constitutional restrictions. According to CBS News, during the interview, Trump claimed, “There are methods which you could do it,” raising concerns about his willingness to challenge the 22nd Amendment, which limits presidents to two terms.
“I’m not joking,” Trump emphasized, but he also added, “It is far too early to think about it.”
The 22nd Amendment, ratified in 1951, explicitly states that “no person shall be elected to the office of the President more than twice.” This limitation was put in place following President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s unprecedented four consecutive terms.
While it remains unclear how seriously Trump might pursue the idea, any attempt to extend his presidency would face significant legal challenges. His comments, however, have drawn sharp criticism from political opponents, who see them as an attempt to undermine democratic norms.
Rep. Daniel Goldman, a New York Democrat and former lead counsel for Trump’s first impeachment, called Trump’s remarks “an escalation in his clear effort to take over the government and dismantle our democracy.” He urged Congressional Republicans to publicly oppose any efforts by Trump to remain in office beyond two terms.
“If Congressional Republicans believe in the Constitution, they will go on the record opposing Trump’s ambitions for a third term,” Goldman stated.
Trump’s comments have reignited debates over his commitment to democratic principles, especially in light of his past efforts to challenge election results.
