Former President Donald Trump declares he won’t run for president in 2028 if defeated by Kamala Harris in the upcoming election.
At a Glance
- Trump announced he’s not planning to run for president in 2028 if defeated this election.
- He has been the Republican candidate for three consecutive national elections.
- Trump expressed hope for a successful outcome in the current election.
- Trump holds a clear advantage with voters on issues like the economy and immigration.
Trump’s Announcement
In a revealing interview on “Full Measure” with Sharyl Attkisson, former President Donald Trump announced he would not seek the presidency in 2028 if he fails to win against Kamala Harris in the upcoming election. The declaration from the 78-year-old politician was made during a program with a viewership of 43 million households, emphasizing his firm stance against future presidential campaigns. This statement provides a considerable update on his long-term political intentions.
Trump’s announcement marks a significant shift in his usual rhetoric, where he has rarely acknowledged the possibility of defeat. Historically, he has rallied his supporters with messages of inevitable victory. However, recently, Trump mentioned the possibility of defeat twice in just four days.
Trump rules out running again in 2028 if defeated in November’s US presidential electionhttps://t.co/3gsQ9UpKCv
— South China Morning Post (@SCMPNews) September 22, 2024
Political Context
Trump has been a transformative figure within the Republican Party over the last eight years, having been its candidate for three consecutive national elections. Despite his contentious loss in the 2020 election to Joe Biden, where he promoted numerous conspiracy theories about the results being “stolen,” Trump continues to hold significant influence over his base. His recent comments have again stirred discussions, especially regarding his acknowledgment of a potential loss.
“No I don’t,” Trump told Full Measure host Sharyl Attkisson, who asked him whether he would wage another White House bid if he is not successful.
This announcement also comes amidst a heated electoral race where Kamala Harris’ campaign has raised substantial funds, outperforming Trump’s campaign by $60 million in August alone. National polling averages indicate a narrow lead for Harris over Trump, with Harris leading Trump 52% to 48% according to a CBS poll. In key battleground states, her lead stands at a narrower margin of 51% to 49%.
Impact and Reception
Trump’s announcement carries implications not just for his political career but for the future dynamics of the Republican Party. Acknowledging this, various media outlets have reported mixed reactions. Trump’s comments regarding Jewish voters potentially being to blame if he loses were condemned by the Harris campaign and organizations like the American Jewish Committee and the Anti-Defamation League. His recent stance indicates a more prepared and perhaps realistic approach to his electoral chances.
“Do they know what the hell is happening if I don’t win this election?” he said, according to various media reports. “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.”
This revelation comes as the US grapples with numerous issues, including economic concerns and a national sentiment that feels the country is on the wrong track. With 66% of voters reporting that their incomes cannot keep up with rising costs, Trump still holds a clear advantage with voters on critical topics like the economy, cost of living, and immigration. This makes his announcement even more pivotal as voters are weighing the issues that matter most in this election.
