Donald Trump, in a very matter-of-fact way, stated that he would consider a third term as President. This, despite the fact that a third term would be unconstitutional.

I find this frightening. Trump announced it in a very calm manner, as though it was not a particularly surprising thing for him to say.

Given that it was Trump who said it, it isn’t so surprising. But it is deeply disturbing that the Constitution should be so nonchalantly brushed aside by a presiding President.

After the death of Franklin D. Roosevelt, the Constitution was changed making it illegal for someone to hold the office of President for more than two terms. Roosevelt had been elected for four. American citizens decided that this was not to happen again.

George Washington had the opportunity to run for a third term. But he did not because he felt it would set a bad precedent. Washington’s concern was that someone could be too deeply entrenched in power if he served as President for more than two terms.