President Donald Trump could soon appear on a proposed new $250 bill in what critics describe as another attempt by the Republican leader to place his personal image on major US institutions.
The Washington Post reported on Thursday that officials had developed a proposal featuring a prominent image of Trump on the banknote. If approved, it would mark the first time in more than 150 years that a living person — particularly a sitting or former president — has appeared on US currency.
A design model obtained by the newspaper also carries the words “America 250 anniversary,” referencing the 250th anniversary of the United States declaring independence on July 4, 1776.
According to the report, two Treasury Department officials appointed by Trump last year encouraged staff at the Bureau of Engraving and Printing to prepare prototype designs for the note.
Employees, speaking anonymously, told the newspaper the proposal raised legal concerns because federal law prohibits living presidents from appearing on US currency.
The Post reported that bureau director Patricia Solimene resisted the proposal and warned officials, including US Treasurer Brandon Beach, about legal and procedural complications. The paper added that Solimene was later reassigned from her position.
Despite those concerns, the Trump administration has continued efforts to place Trump’s name or likeness on public institutions and commemorative items. Critics have accused the administration of encouraging a personality cult around the 79-year-old leader.
Earlier this year, the US Commission of Fine Arts approved the creation of a commemorative “Semiquincentennial Gold Coin” made from 24-carat gold.
Trump’s name has also reportedly been added to institutions including the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts and the US Institute of Peace. His image already appears on banners displayed at the Department of Justice and Department of Agriculture, while the State Department reportedly plans to include his likeness in some US passports.
Legislation allowing Trump to appear on a $250 bill was introduced in Congress last year but has not advanced.
A Treasury spokesperson told the newspaper that the Bureau of Engraving and Printing “is conducting appropriate planning and due diligence” regarding the proposed legislation.
Democrats strongly criticised the idea, with Senator Mark Warner describing the unprecedented proposal as the White House openly “stoking the president’s ego.”