Former President Donald Trump has indicated he does not plan to run for office again in 2028 if he loses the upcoming U.S. presidential election in November. The 78-year-old has been the Republican candidate in three consecutive national elections, significantly reshaping the party over the past eight years.
In an interview with Sinclair Media Group, Trump was asked if he would consider another bid for the presidency if he were defeated by Democratic Vice-President Kamala Harris. "No, I don't. I think... that will be it," Trump responded. "I don't see that at all." However, he remained hopeful, adding, "Hopefully, we're going to be very successful."
Under U.S. law, presidents are limited to two terms, so even if Trump wins this election, he would be ineligible to run again in 2028.
Throughout his political career, Trump has rarely acknowledged the possibility of losing, focusing instead on energizing his supporters with promises of victory. However, this is the second time in recent days that he has alluded to the possibility of defeat.
Speaking at an event hosted by the Israeli-American Council last Thursday, Trump mentioned the prospect of losing and suggested Jewish voters could play a role in that outcome. "Do they know what the hell is happening if I don't win this election?" he reportedly said, adding, "And the Jewish people would have to do a lot with that if that happens because at 40% [support] that means 60% of the people are voting for the enemy." These remarks were met with condemnation from the Harris campaign, as well as organizations such as the American Jewish Committee and the Anti-Defamation League.
Trump’s remarks on a potential loss come as the political landscape shifts in favor of the Democratic Party since Harris became the nominee following President Joe Biden's withdrawal from the race. Harris's campaign raised over $190 million in August, surpassing the $130 million raised by Trump's campaign and its affiliated organizations.
Polling data shows Harris with a narrow lead over Trump. National polling averages tracked by the BBC indicate she is ahead of Trump, with a CBS poll released on Sunday showing her leading 52% to 48% nationally. In key battleground states, which are likely to determine the election outcome, Harris holds a slim lead of 51% to 49%, slightly improving from last month’s even split.
Another poll by NBC released on Sunday shows Harris with a five-point lead over Trump nationwide. The poll also highlighted a significant boost in her favorability ratings, with 48% of registered voters viewing her positively, up from 32% in July—the largest surge in favorability since President George W. Bush's rise following the September 11, 2001 attacks.
Despite these gains for Harris, Trump continues to hold a clear advantage on key issues such as the economy, cost of living, and immigration. The Trump campaign has yet to comment on the latest polling data.
