Key Takeaways:
• California Governor Gavin Newsom warns that GOP leader Mike Johnson might open the door to Trump’s 2028 comeback.
• If Democrats retake the U.S. House in 2026, they could limit a second Trump term and start impeachment talks.
• Control of the House gives power over the federal budget and oversight of presidential actions.
• Mike Johnson as Speaker could block these efforts and help secure a third term for Trump.
• Despite the 22nd Amendment, Trump allies are already plotting his return in 2028.
Mike Johnson Could Decide a Trump Third Term
California Governor Gavin Newsom says the fate of a possible third Trump term could rest with one man: Mike Johnson. In a recent CNN interview, Newsom warned that if Republicans choose Johnson as Speaker of the House, they could undercut Democrats’ efforts to check a second Trump presidency.
Newsom argued that even if Trump wins again in 2024, his power could end “de facto” if Democrats win the House in 2026. With that control, the party would hold the purse strings and the authority to launch impeachment proceedings. However, Newsom cautioned that Speaker Mike Johnson could tilt the balance back toward Trump, effectively giving him a path to 2028.
Why Mike Johnson Matters
First, Speaker of the House sets the legislative agenda. Second, the Speaker decides which bills reach the floor. Third, they lead impeachment efforts. If Mike Johnson rises to this role, he could block budget bills that curb Trump’s agenda and resist impeachment investigations. As Newsom put it, a coequal branch of government finally asserting itself might vanish under Johnson’s leadership.
How the House Could Halt Trump’s Agenda
If Democrats control the House after 2026, they could freeze spending on policies Trump enacts. They could also launch investigations into any suspected wrongdoing. Moreover, they hold the power to formally impeach the president. These tools give Congress a strong check on executive power. Yet, if Mike Johnson leads Republicans, he might refuse to call key votes or delay them indefinitely.
A Dark Horse in the Wings
Newsom described Johnson as a “dark horse” who could sabotage Democratic checks. He said that Johnson has not publicly weighed in on Trump’s third-term chatter. However, Johnson has not rebuffed Trump’s talk either. Meanwhile, Trump allies like Steve Bannon openly discuss plans to install Trump in 2028. Their strategy could hinge on having a friendly Speaker in the House.
Trump’s Third-Term Talk Versus the Constitution
The 22nd Amendment clearly bars a third term. Still, Trump keeps bringing it up. Some Republicans have dismissed the idea, but Mike Johnson has stayed silent. Without clear opposition from GOP leadership, talk of a third term remains in play. That raises deep questions about norms, legal limits, and political will.
What This Means for 2028
If a second Trump term faces no budget blocks or impeachment threats, he could preserve power and influence. Then, his loyal base would stay energized. At that point, talk of running in 2028 might seem less like fantasy and more like a plan. In fact, Steve Bannon has said there’s a roadmap to make a third term real. The question is whether U.S. institutions will stand firm.
Can Democrats Stop a Third Term?
Next year’s midterms will matter greatly. Democrats hope to regain the House and push back on Trump. They need to recruit strong candidates, raise money, and energize voters. However, they must also win over moderate voters concerned about economic issues and national unity. Even with a House majority, they face a tough fight if the Speaker resists action.
The Power of the Speaker Role
It might surprise many that one person can shape the entire House agenda. Yet the Speaker wields that power daily. They appoint committee chairs, decide which bills move forward, and set debate rules. If Mike Johnson takes that gavel, he could block investigations into Trump’s actions, delay budget votes, and block Democratic proposals. That could leave Trump free to pursue his goals with little pushback.
What Comes Next?
In the coming months, Republicans will choose their House leader. If they pick someone else, Democrats may feel more confident in 2026. But if they select Johnson, Democrats must prepare for a tougher battle. They will need to build alliances, use public pressure, and leverage every tool at their disposal. Meanwhile, Trump’s team will watch closely and continue planning for 2028.
Staying Informed and Ready
Voters should track key races in districts across the country. They should pay attention to House leadership contests and candidate platforms. They can also help by volunteering, donating, and speaking up. The balance of power in Congress will shape America’s future for years to come.
In the end, one man’s rise to Speaker could change the course of history. Mike Johnson’s decisions could determine whether Congress checks a Trump presidency or paves the way for an unprecedented third term. The stakes have never been higher.
FAQs
Will Trump be able to serve a third term despite the 22nd Amendment?
The Constitution bans a third term. However, some allies say they have plans to challenge or bypass that rule. It remains unclear how they would do so legally.
What power does the Speaker of the House have over the president?
The Speaker controls which bills come to the floor. They set the agenda, lead impeachment efforts, and influence budget decisions. This gives them big sway over the president’s ability to govern.
Why is Mike Johnson seen as a “dark horse”?
Johnson has not publicly taken sides on the third-term chatter. His low profile and loyalty to Trump’s agenda make him unpredictable. That uncertainty worries Democratic leaders.
How can Democrats stop a potential third Trump term?
They aim to win back the House in 2026. Winning control would let them block budgets and launch investigations. They also need strong voter turnout, solid candidates, and clear messaging to succeed.