In a wide-ranging Oval Office interview with The Atlantic, former President Donald Trump made bold claims about his global influence, discussed his contentious relationship with media, and floated the possibility of an unprecedented third term—despite constitutional limitations. The April 28 interview offers rare insight into Trump’s mindset as he navigates his second presidency amid declining approval ratings and ongoing controversies.
Trump’s Bombshell Statements
✔ “I run the country and the world” – Contrasting his first term (“survival mode”) with his current global sway.
✔ “Maybe they didn’t know me at first” – On why billionaires like Zuckerberg and Bezos now respect him.
✔ “That would be a big shattering” – Teasing a potential third-term bid despite the 22nd Amendment.
Breaking Down Trump’s Atlantic Interview
1. “Running the World” vs. Domestic Struggles
- Trump’s Claim: His second term is about global dominance, not just U.S. leadership.
- Reality Check: His 39% approval rating (per Washington Post/ABC News) suggests domestic discontent over tariffs and the economy.
2. Media Feuds & the Atlantic’s “Truthfulness” Test
- Longstanding Grudge: Trump still denies The Atlantic‘s 2020 report that he called fallen soldiers “losers.”
- Why He Did the Interview: Pure “curiosity”—to see if the outlet could be “truthful.”
3. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth Under Fire
- Signal Chat Leak: Hegseth accidentally shared Yemen airstrike plans in a group chat.
- Trump’s Take: “I think he’s gonna get it together.”
- Controversies: Accused of firing Pentagon staff for “leaks” and installing a private makeup room.
4. The Third-Term Question
- Constitutional Barrier: The 22nd Amendment limits presidents to two terms.
- Trump’s Response: “Maybe I’m just trying to shatter [norms].”
- Legal Reality: No evidence he’s asked DOJ to explore loopholes—yet.
Why This Interview Matters
🔹 Power Perception: Trump frames himself as a global strongman, not just a U.S. leader.
🔹 Media Strategy: Despite calling press the “enemy of the people,” he engages selectively (Time interview followed Atlantic sit-down).
🔹 2028 Speculation: Floating a third term keeps his base energized—even if legally dubious.
Final Thought: Is Trump Trolling or Testing Limits?
Between third-term hints and defending embattled officials, Trump continues to push boundaries. Whether this is political maneuvering or genuine ambition remains unclear—but it guarantees headlines.
What do you think?
- Is Trump’s “running the world” claim justified or exaggerated?
- Could a third-term push actually happen?
