Donald Trump, the 2024 Republican presidential candidate and former U.S. President, has stated that he will not run for president in 2028 if he is defeated in the upcoming November election. The statement was made during an interview broadcasted on Sunday, September 22, 2024, where Trump confirmed that this election would be his last bid for the presidency.
When probed about the possibility of another run in 2028 if his 2024 campaign is unsuccessful, Trump definitively responded, “No, I don’t… I think that will be it. I don’t see that at all.” This represents a departure from his usual strong-willed demeanor, which seldom concedes the chance of defeat.
At 78 years old, Trump would be 82 by the time of the 2028 election. This fact has sparked comparisons with former President Joe Biden, who faced similar criticism about his age before stepping down from the 2024 race. Biden’s decision was influenced by concerns within his party over his cognitive capabilities, a topic that is now also being raised in discussions about Trump’s potential suitability for another term.
Trump has previously hinted at leaving politics. During the 2020 campaign, he infamously asserted that if he was defeated by Biden, “you’ll never see me again.” However, following his loss, he remained a prominent figure in national politics, challenging the 2020 election results legally and becoming the Republican nominee for 2024.
Trump’s recent declaration could have considerable implications for the Republican Party, which has been greatly influenced by his leadership since 2016. In recent interviews, Trump indicated that if he is victorious in 2024, he should be permitted to serve beyond the two-term limit. He cited alleged improprieties during his 2016 campaign, particularly the allegations that his campaign was unlawfully spied on, as justification for an additional term.
The announcement of Trump’s decision not to run again if he loses in 2024 could herald a significant change for the Republican Party as it grapples with its future leadership. Trump’s influence over the party’s base over the last eight years means his absence from future races could be a pivotal moment for the party. If he is defeated this November, the GOP will need to plan for a future without Trump at the helm.
Despite his categorical statement, Trump has been reluctant to admit the possibility of electoral defeat in the past. Following his loss in the 2020 election, Trump refused to concede and initiated a controversial campaign to challenge the results, which culminated in the infamous January 6 Capitol riot. Concerns have been raised that Trump and his supporters may be preparing to dispute the 2024 election results if they are unfavorable to him.
Current polls place Trump in a tight race against Vice President Kamala Harris, who has taken up the Democratic nomination following Biden’s withdrawal. Based on recent polling data, Harris is leading Trump nationwide by slim margins.
As the election draws nearer, Trump remains focused on his 2024 campaign but is already addressing questions about his plans beyond November. He has expressed hope for a positive outcome in the upcoming election.
