Trump Portrait Features on Limited Edition US Passports for 250th Anniversary
The US government has confirmed the release of a limited edition passport featuring a portrait of President Donald Trump. These passports are intended to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the US Declaration of Independence in July and will be available to “any American citizen” who applies at the Washington Passport Agency, for as long as stocks last.
Design and Availability
A rendering released by the US State Department shows an image of Trump, encircled by the Declaration of Independence text, the American flag, and the President’s signature in gold. A White House spokesperson stated that this “patriotic passport design provides yet another great way Americans can join in the spectacular celebrations for America’s 250th birthday.”
Current US passports typically display historical scenes and national symbols, such as the Moon landing and the Statue of Liberty. It remains unclear whether citizens will have the option to decline the special edition passport.
Broader Commemorative Efforts
This initiative is the latest in a series of efforts by the administration to associate President Trump’s image with government programmes and public buildings. The US Mint recently announced plans for a commemorative gold coin featuring Trump for the 250th anniversary, and the President is also set to become the first sitting US president to have his signature on US banknotes.
Furthermore, the Kennedy Center board voted to rename the performing arts centre the Trump-Kennedy Center, a decision that drew criticism from the family of the late President John F. Kennedy. In early April, plans for a 76-metre (250ft) gold-accented victory arch, dubbed the “Arc de Trump,” received preliminary federal approval in Washington DC, despite significant public and preservationist opposition. The White House has also faced legal action from the National Trust for Historic Preservation, which alleges that the demolition of the East Wing to construct a ballroom commenced without proper planning approvals.
