Proposed $250 Bill Featuring Trump Draws Criticism
Scott Bessent, the U.S. Treasury Secretary, voiced strong disapproval of the media’s coverage regarding plans for a commemorative $250 bill that would feature President Donald Trump’s image. This criticism came during a press conference at the White House where he engaged directly with reporters from The Washington Post.
“I don’t understand this Washington Post article, but who here at the Post does?” Bessent remarked.
Despite a reporter’s attempt to engage, Bessent continued without holding back.
“Terrible writing, awful editing,” he stated, noting, “Basically, it says that the Treasury follows the law and we write the bill—it’s up to Congress… I really didn’t get what the story was.”
Earlier that day, The Washington Post had reported that political appointees of Trump urged officials at the Bureau of Engraving and Printing to swiftly create a prototype $250 bill that showcases Trump’s likeness and signature.
Back in the previous year, Congressman Joe Wilson proposed legislation, the Donald J. Trump $250 Bill Act (HR 1761), which calls for the Treasury to produce $250 bills featuring the president. However, this measure has yet to pass in either chamber of Congress.
Currently, federal law, established in 1866, prohibits living individuals from being depicted on U.S. currency. Still, Bessent indicated that the Trump administration is preparing designs in anticipation of potential legislation aimed at commemorating America’s 250th anniversary.
This ongoing push for a $250 bill fits into a larger strategy by the administration to make a significant imprint on governmental symbols and documents as the nation approaches its milestone anniversary.
In an unusual move, Trump already announced that his signature would appear on newly printed banknotes, marking a departure from the traditional signatures of the Treasury Secretary.
Beyond banknotes, plans are also being discussed for Trump-themed passports, dollar coins, and national park passes as part of the semi-quincentenary celebrations.
Furthermore, Trump’s influence is becoming more visible; his name now appears on a large banner outside the Department of Justice and is also inscribed at the United States Institute of Peace and the Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts.
