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Republicans push legislation to put Trump's face on new 250 dollar bill, first living person since 1866
Congressional Republicans are advancing legislation to create a commemorative 250 dollar bill featuring President Trump's portrait. It would be the first time a living person appears on US currency since 1866, requiring a change to current law.
Congressional Republicans are pushing legislation to put President Donald Trump's face on a new commemorative 250 dollar bill, which would mark the first time a living person has appeared on US currency since 1866. The plan, which includes a black and white portrait design, would require Congress to change the existing law that prohibits depicting living individuals on cash bills.
Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent addressed the proposal at a White House press briefing, confirming that current law prohibits living persons on US currency and that any change would need to come from Capitol Hill. He noted that the Treasury has prepared in advance so that if the legislation passes, production could begin, but stressed the department will adhere to the law.
The proposal has drawn criticism from opponents who view it as characteristic of the president's branding approach. Critics pointed to Trump's name and image already appearing on park passes, passports, and the Kennedy Center, describing the currency plan as part of a pattern of self-promotion throughout his career.
Former Treasury Department officials have noted that introducing a new bill into circulation typically takes six to eight years from approval to widespread use. The legislation would first need to pass both the House and Senate, and could face legal challenges from those arguing it undermines the nonpartisan tradition of US currency design.
At the same briefing, Bessent also discussed the Trump Accounts programme, which he described as the most important benefit for young people since the GI Bill. Nearly six million American children have been signed up for the accounts, which are set to launch on July 4th, as reported by Fox News.