Trump face on $250 bill sparks US row

US President Donald Trump could soon become the face of a proposed new $250 currency note, according to reports

US President Donald Trump could soon become the face of a proposed new $250 currency note, according to reports emerging from Washington. The idea has triggered political debate and raised legal questions across the United States.

Reports suggest that officials linked to the Treasury Department discussed possible designs for the bill, which would feature Trump’s portrait along with the phrase “America 250 Anniversary.” The proposed design is connected to celebrations marking 250 years since American independence in 1776.

If approved, the move would break a long-standing American tradition that prevents living presidents from appearing on US currency. Current federal law bars the image of any living person from being printed on official banknotes.

According to officials familiar with the matter, staff members at the Bureau of Engraving and Printing were reportedly asked to prepare early prototypes of the design. However, several employees expressed concern that the proposal could face serious legal and procedural hurdles.

The controversy reportedly intensified after senior officials at the printing bureau warned that introducing such a bill could violate existing regulations. Reports also claimed that bureau director Patricia Solimene was later reassigned from her position after raising objections.

The proposal has added to growing criticism from Trump’s political opponents, who accuse the administration of promoting a “cult of personality” around the former president. Critics argue that placing Trump’s image on currency while he remains alive would politicise national institutions and undermine historical norms.

Democratic lawmakers strongly criticised the plan. Senator Mark Warner described the proposal as another attempt to boost Trump’s personal image through government institutions.

Supporters of the proposal, however, argue that Trump remains one of the most influential political figures in modern American history and deserves recognition during the country’s upcoming anniversary celebrations.

The discussion comes as several other government-linked projects and institutions have recently featured Trump’s name or image. Reports indicate that commemorative coins, official banners, and even future passport designs could include references to the former president.

Although legislation allowing the creation of a $250 bill was introduced in Congress last year, no final approval has been granted so far. Treasury officials say planning discussions are continuing while legal reviews remain under consideration.

The debate has now become part of a wider political battle in the United States over Trump’s growing influence on American institutions ahead of the next election cycle.