Treasury Department Gears Up for $250 Bill Featuring Trump’s Face
US Secretary of Treasury Scott Bessent unveiled a proposed $250 bill featuring President Donald Trump during a press briefing in the Brady Briefing Room of the White House.
The Trump administration aims to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the country with this controversial currency. Current law prohibits any living president from appearing on U.S. currency, yet the administration is preparing for Congress to potentially pass legislation that would allow this special bill.
"It's all in the hands of… Capitol Hill," Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent stated during the briefing. He emphasized that preparations are in place but reiterated adherence to existing laws.
Bessent dismissed any concerns about the appropriateness of featuring a sitting president on currency during such a significant anniversary.
Last year, GOP Rep. Joe Wilson from South Carolina introduced a bill mandating the Treasury to print $250 notes adorned with Trump's portrait, but the proposal has yet to gain traction.
According to reports, two political appointees from Trump’s administration initiated the drafts for the new $250 note, including designs of the president's likeness. Bessent showcased a draft of the report while addressing White House reporters.
If Congress alters the law, Trump would become the first living individual to grace U.S. currency since 1866.
Earlier this year, the Treasury Department made headlines by announcing that Trump's signature would appear on all newly printed money, breaking from tradition where only the treasury secretary and treasurer's signatures were used.
This move aligns with a broader trend of Trump imprinting his identity on government institutions and materials, marking America's 250th birthday.
Plans are also in motion for a commemorative passport featuring Trump's face, alongside a commemorative coin and a National Parks pass.
In Washington, Trump's visage dominates a banner over the Justice Department. His name has been added to prominent locations like the Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts and the U.S. Institute of Peace. His administration has even branded policy initiatives, such as the Trump Accounts, reflecting his history of aggressive self-promotion.
