Amendment XXII
Miriam Adelson Pledges $250 Million for Third Trump Term | WATCH
During a Chanuka reception at the White House, philanthropist Miriam Adelson offered to donate $250 million to support President Trump running for a third term as President. The offer fuels speculation, as Trump lawyer Alan Dershowitz says the Constitution is unclear on the matter.
US President Donald Trump and major Republican donor Miriam Adelson fueled fresh speculation about a possible third presidential term on Tuesday night during the White House’s annual Chanuka candle-lighting ceremony, where Adelson publicly pledged an additional $250 million should Trump choose to run again.
Speaking at the East Room event, Adelson, an Israeli-American philanthropist and widow of the late casino magnate Sheldon Adelson, told attendees she had discussed the legality of a third Trump term with prominent constitutional lawyer Alan Dershowitz. Turning to the president, she said, “So, we can do it, think about it,” prompting chants of “four more years” from the crowd.
After briefly conferring with Adelson, Trump told the audience she had offered another $250 million in campaign support if he pursued a third term. “I will give,” Adelson confirmed moments later, drawing applause.
Trump then pivoted to praise Sheldon Adelson, describing him as a relentless advocate for Israel. “He just wanted to take care of Israel,” Trump said, recalling their lengthy meetings and Adelson’s influence on US-Israel relations during his presidency.
The remarks came despite clear constitutional barriers. The 22nd Amendment states that no person may be elected president more than twice. Trump has previously acknowledged this limitation, telling reporters aboard Air Force One in October that the Constitution makes a third term impermissible, while adding, “It’s too bad.” He has also ruled out running for vice president in 2028, calling the idea “too cute” and politically unwise.
Dershowitz, a retired Harvard Law professor who defended Trump during his first impeachment trial, told the Wall Street Journal that the issue is less settled than it appears. He said he recently discussed a draft of his book, titled Could President Trump Constitutionally Serve a Third Term?, with both Trump and Adelson. “It’s not clear,” Dershowitz said, stressing that while the topic is intellectually interesting, he does not believe Trump will ultimately pursue another run.
The episode underscores Trump’s continued dominance over donor circles and his willingness to flirt publicly with political red lines, even as legal realities remain firmly in place.