Trump appears with “2028” cap and jokes about a fourth presidential term

During his speech at the White House Correspondents’ Gala, President Donald Trump humorously floated the idea of running for a fourth term in charge of the United States.

Sporting a red cap reading “Trump 2028,” he announced that he would make an official statement, even though the U.S. Constitution prohibits such a thing.

“Because I love you and I want your audience to stay high, I’m happy to share with you my plans to run for a fourth term as president of the United States. I’m going to do it. In fact, I think I just did,” Trump said, prompting laughter and applause in the room.

He also reiterated his long-standing belief that he was the winner of the 2020 election, again calling it rigged, despite the result being certified and there being no evidence of widespread fraud.

In his remarks, Trump also referred to the armed attack he suffered in April, stressing that the U.S. must not respond to political violence with more violence.

“In America, disputes are not settled with bullets, but through open and lively debate,” he said, thanking Secret Service agents for their swift intervention during the incident.

The evening was marked by jabs aimed at political figures and the American press. Trump sarcastically attacked former Presidents Barack Obama and Joe Biden, as well as some Democratic Party figures being talked about as contenders for 2028. His one-liners also touched CNN journalists Kaitlan Collins and Jake Tapper, as well as talk show hosts Jimmy Kimmel and Jimmy Fallon.

He then also spoke about talks with Iran, saying that Tehran is aiming for a deal with Washington, but reiterated that the United States will never allow Iran to obtain nuclear weapons.

Although he often criticizes the media, Trump closed his speech by expressing that he believes in press freedom.

“Despite all the headaches you cause me, I want to hope you understand that I believe in press freedom more than anyone in this room,” he declared, drawing applause from the audience.

The 22nd Amendment to the U.S. Constitution states that a president cannot be elected to the office more than twice. For that reason, Trump’s statement about a fourth term was largely interpreted as a political joke rather than a real electoral pledge.