**Trump Hints at Third Term as Transition to Presidency Begins**

During a Capitol Hill meeting on Wednesday, President-elect Donald Trump hinted at a desire to pursue a third term, telling congressional Republican leaders, "I suspect I won't be running again, unless you do something." This statement coincided with a day of significant political activity, including a meeting between Trump and President Biden at the White House meant to emphasize the importance of reinforcing democratic norms as the nation prepares for Trump's presidency.

Securing a third term would require a constitutional amendment to the 22nd Amendment, which currently limits presidents to two terms. This would necessitate supermajorities in both Congress and the states. At 78 years old, Trump is already the oldest person to be elected president. Though Trump's remark might have been partially in jest, given his history of praising authoritarian leaders and attempts to overturn the 2020 election, it raises concerns about his intentions and respect for democratic principles.

Trump's acknowledgment of Congress's crucial role in potentially altering the Constitution suggested an understanding of the legislative process, despite past actions that worried experts about his democratic commitments. Following a meeting with House Republican leaders, Trump and Biden met in the Oval Office and appeared cordial during their brief interaction in front of the press. "Congratulations and I look forward to having a smooth transition," Biden stated, while Trump assured that the transition would be "as smooth as it can get."

This marks a stark contrast to the rocky handover in 2020, when Trump hampered the transition by refusing to concede that Biden had won. The situation escalated until January 6, 2021, when Trump's supporters stormed the Capitol in an attempt to halt the election certification. However, since winning the presidency last week, Biden and his team have highlighted their cooperation with Trump, positioning it as a public civics lesson in the peaceful transfer of power.

Vice President Kamala Harris, who became the nominee after Biden withdrew from the election in July, warned during the campaign that Trump would pose a threat to democracy. First Lady Jill Biden was also present to welcome Trump, offering a handwritten note to his wife, Melania, who did not attend the meeting, congratulating her and offering transition assistance.

Despite some delays, including Trump's failure to sign papers avoiding conflicts of interest, his recent term has given him a better grasp of the presidential role compared to newcomers. Notably, Trump is the first president since Grover Cleveland to win non-consecutive terms. Trump's son-in-law, Jared Kushner, who played a significant role in Trump's first term, is not expected to hold a position in the upcoming term.

Concerns have been raised about the transition's delay due to Trump's lag in signing the ethics pledge, potentially affecting national security. Brian Hughes, spokesperson for Trump's transition team, stated that the team is engaging with Biden-Harris Administration lawyers on the agreements required by the Presidential Transition Act. The delay has prompted warnings from experts like Max Stier of the Partnership for Public Service, who stressed that an efficient transition is crucial for national security.

Trump has progressed in assembling his advisory team, appointing Susie Wiles as his chief of staff and Stephen Miller as her deputy. He is expected to announce Florida Sen. Marco Rubio as his potential Secretary of State soon. However, concerns remain about the lack of experience in his high-level appointees. Stier emphasized the need for selecting competent individuals to ensure an efficient government, a priority that appears uncertain given the current choices.