AFP, Washington

US President Donald Trump said in an interview aired yesterday that he is not seriously considering running for a constitutionally-barred third White House term, after musing publicly over the idea.

“This is not something I’m looking to do,” he told NBC News “Meet the Press” moderator Kristen Welker, according to released excerpts, adding: “I’m looking to have four great years and turn it over to somebody, ideally a great Republican, a great Republican to carry it forward.”

Trump highlighted several other rising stars in the Republican Party he said are capable of carrying the MAGA mantle after he’s finished as the GOP’s elected leader, mentioning not only Vice President JD Vance but also Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who has become a central player in his second administration.

Trump previously told Welker in March that he was “not joking” about his consideration of a third run, and he said again in his latest interview that he’s received strong requests from allies to run again. Despite those entreaties, Trump told Welker he’s aware of the realities standing in the way.

“It’s something that, to the best of my knowledge, you’re not allowed to do. I don’t know if that’s constitutional that they’re not allowing you to do it or anything else,” Trump said.

The Constitution’s 22nd Amendment says “no person shall be elected to the office of the President more than twice.”