Donald Trump and his allies have discussed or pursued several efforts that critics describe as attempts to change long-standing rules and norms surrounding the U.S. presidency.

These efforts generally fall into four areas:

Expanding presidential executive power Challenging limits imposed by courts and Congress Increasing control over federal agencies and elections Discussing possible changes to presidential term limits

For example, Trump has issued a large number of executive orders during his second term and has argued for broader presidential authority over federal agencies. Legal scholars and watchdog groups say this reflects an aggressive interpretation of executive power.

Some critics and legal experts have also raised concerns about clashes between the administration and the judiciary, especially after reports that lower court rulings were sometimes ignored or delayed

Some critics and legal experts have also raised concerns about clashes between the administration and the judiciary, especially after reports that lower court rulings were sometimes ignored or delayed.

There has also been debate over election oversight and federal authority in elections. Investigations by news organizations reported that the administration made major changes to agencies involved in election security and oversight.

Another major issue is the idea of a third presidential term. The U.S. Constitution’s Twenty-second Amendment currently says:

No person shall be elected to the office of the President more than twice

No person shall be elected to the office of the President more than twice.

That amendment limits presidents to two elected terms.

Still, some Trump allies have proposed changing the amendment. In 2025, Representative Andy Ogles introduced a proposal that would allow a president to serve a third term under certain conditions.

Critics warned this could weaken transparency and accountability requirements for presidents

There have also been reports about changes to presidential recordkeeping rules after the administration argued parts of the Presidential Records Act were unconstitutional. Critics warned this could weaken transparency and accountability requirements for presidents.

Supporters of Trump argue these actions are meant to strengthen presidential leadership and reduce bureaucratic resistance. Opponents argue they could weaken constitutional checks and balances.