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Has a U.S. president ever run for a third term?

Asked 12 hours ago

Answer

Franklin D. Roosevelt is the only U.S. president to run for and win a third term, breaking the American tradition of two terms. His decision led to political backlash and the eventual passage of the 22nd Amendment, which limits presidents to two terms.

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CBS America

Where President Franklin D. Roosevelt decided to seek a third term

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  • Franklin D. Roosevelt decided to seek a third term while at his Hyde Park home. 1m 57s
  • His decision broke American tradition and led to significant political debate. 2m 5s
  • Roosevelt won a third and then a fourth term, dying in office during World War II. 2m 55s
  • Political backlash to Roosevelt's extended presidency led to the 22nd Amendment, limiting presidents to two terms. 3m 52s
  • Roosevelt's legacy remains strong in Hyde Park, where he is commemorated in local landmarks. 4m 21s
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References

Where President Franklin D. Roosevelt decided to seek a third term
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CBS America
13 hours ago
Where President Franklin D. Roosevelt decided to seek a third term

In July 1940, as Roosevelt's second term was ending, he grappled with whether to break tradition and run for a third term. Ultimately, Roosevelt ran for and won a third term.

Where President Franklin D. Roosevelt decided to seek a third term
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CBS America
13 hours ago
Where President Franklin D. Roosevelt decided to seek a third term

Roosevelt coasted to a third term and later won a fourth, making him the only U.S. president to serve more than two terms.

Where President Franklin D. Roosevelt decided to seek a third term
Icon
CBS America
13 hours ago
Where President Franklin D. Roosevelt decided to seek a third term

Six years after FDR's death, Congress and the states passed the 22nd Amendment, limiting future presidents to two terms.

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