In a remarkable announcement, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent revealed that the department has designed a $250 bill featuring the likeness of President Donald Trump. This move is in anticipation of legislation currently stalled in Congress that aims to include Trump on a new denomination of U.S. currency.
Bessent made these comments during a press briefing at the White House, clarifying that while the design has been created, the final decision rests with lawmakers. “We’ve created the bill because we have to be prepared,” he stated, emphasizing the importance of readiness in the legislative process.
Despite the administration’s involvement, Bessent downplayed suggestions that this initiative is being vigorously pushed by the White House. He noted that the proposal aligns with the upcoming 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, asserting that there is nothing inappropriate about integrating Trump’s image into this historical celebration. “The president doesn’t do it; the House and the Senate have to do it,” he remarked, referring to the legislative process initiated by Representative Joe Wilson, R-S.C.
A spokesperson from the Treasury Department confirmed that they have conducted the necessary planning to implement a congressional mandate for a $250 commemorative note, although the spokesperson did not explicitly mention Trump in their remarks.
If the bill is passed and signed into law, it would represent a significant recognition for Trump as a sitting president. This development occurs as Trump seeks to position himself at the forefront of this year’s Independence Day celebrations. The preparation by the Treasury suggests a degree of enthusiasm within the Trump administration regarding this initiative.
In a recent report by the Washington Post, it was revealed that U.S. Treasurer Brandon Beach, a Trump appointee, has been advocating for the expedited production of the new currency. The report further indicated that former Bureau of Engraving and Printing (BEP) chief Patricia Solimene was reassigned after she opposed such pressures. Current leadership now includes Michael Brown, who took over as acting director of engraving and printing.
Wilson’s legislation aims to amend existing laws that prohibit living persons from appearing on U.S. currency. Should the bill proceed, it would create a unique exception allowing current and former presidents to be featured, with Bessent confirming that the measure is specifically designed for one individual: “Donald J. Trump.”
According to the Post, Beach provided the BEP with a design for the new bill last fall, featuring Trump’s portrait and a 250th anniversary logo. Notably, Trump’s signature would also be included, marking a departure from traditional currency design.
British artist Iain Alexander was reportedly involved in the design process and stated he had discussed the bill with Trump directly. However, no further comments were available from Alexander.
The Washington Post also highlighted concerns regarding the legal and procedural steps necessary to issue new currency, which Solimene had emphasized before her reassignment. This situation has raised questions about the motivations behind the push for the new bill.
A new currency note would not be the first instance of Trump expanding his personal brand in an official capacity. The administration has previously facilitated the approval of a commemorative 250th anniversary coin featuring Trump. The Treasury Department claims that such coins fall outside the restrictions on living presidents appearing on monetary currency.
Bessent reiterated that unless Wilson’s proposal passes, the current law stipulates that any currency must include the phrase “In God We Trust” and depict only deceased individuals. “It’s all up to Capitol Hill,” he concluded, emphasizing the need for legislative action.
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Barrow reported from Atlanta.
