Donald Trump has stated he will not consider a presidential run in 2028 if he does not secure a win in the November election. His comments were made during an interview that was broadcast on Sunday, September 22, 2024, where he clarified this would be his last effort to reclaim the presidency.
When queried about a potential 2028 run, should he not win the forthcoming election, Trump was categorical in his response: “No, I don’t… I think that will be it. I don’t see that at all.” This assertion is a departure from his typically unyielding posture, which seldom admits the chance of defeat.
At 78 years old, Trump would be 82 by the time of the 2028 election, sparking inevitable comparisons to President Joe Biden, who faced similar age-related criticism before withdrawing from the 2024 race. Biden’s decision to step down in response to concerns regarding his cognitive abilities within his party has sparked similar discussions about Trump’s possible suitability for another term.
Trump has previously hinted at stepping away from the political arena. During the 2020 campaign, he publicly stated that if he lost to Biden, “you’ll never see me again.” Despite his loss, he remained a significant figure in national politics, launching several legal actions contesting the 2020 election results and securing the Republican nomination in 2024.
Trump’s latest announcement could have significant implications for the Republican Party, which has been profoundly shaped under his leadership since 2016. In previous interviews, Trump suggested that if he were to win the 2024 election, he should be permitted to serve more than the constitutionally-limited two terms. He cited alleged improper conduct during his 2016 campaign, particularly claims of illegal surveillance, as a rationale for an extended term.
The possibility of Trump not running again after a potential 2024 loss could signal a pivotal moment for the Republican Party as it grapples with future leadership. Over the last eight years, Trump has significantly altered the party’s base, making his potential absence in upcoming elections a crucial factor for the future direction of the GOP. If this November does not result in a victory, the party will need to contemplate how to maneuver in a post-Trump era.
Despite Trump’s firm statement, he has previously shown reluctance to accept election losses. His refusal to accept defeat in the 2020 race led to controversial efforts to reverse the results, resulting in the notorious January 6 Capitol riot. Concerns are already arising that Trump and his allies are preparing to contest the outcome of the 2024 election if it is not favorable to him.
Recent polls indicate a close race between Trump and Vice President Kamala Harris, who became the Democratic nominee following Biden’s withdrawal. According to current polls, Harris narrowly leads Trump on a national scale by slim margins.
As the election draws near, Trump’s focus remains on his 2024 campaign, but questions about his plans post-November have already surfaced. He expressed hopes for a positive outcome in the upcoming election.