Pres. Trump portrait on new $250 bill proposal divides U.S. lawmakers

June 2 2026

The administration of U.S. President Donald Trump is preparing for the potential introduction of a new $250 banknote that could feature the president’s portrait, pending approval from Congress, according to multiple reports from U.S. media outlets and officials familiar with the proposal.

Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent confirmed that the Treasury Department is “prepared in advance” to produce the commemorative currency if proposed legislation is passed, emphasizing that current U.S. law prohibits living individuals from appearing on federal currency.

The proposal is tied to plans to mark the United States’ upcoming 250th anniversary of independence, with supporters arguing the design would commemorate the milestone and modern presidential history. However, the move would require amending a law dating back to 1866 that bars living persons from being depicted on U.S. money.

Reports indicate that Treasury officials have already been reviewing mock-up designs for the proposed note, and internal discussions have taken place within the Bureau of Engraving and Printing regarding production feasibility.

The initiative has sparked political controversy in Washington. Critics argue it represents an unprecedented use of public currency for political symbolism, while supporters say it is a fitting tribute to the nation’s semiquincentennial celebrations.

Lawmakers remain divided, and the proposal faces a challenging path through Congress before any printing could begin.

If approved, the $250 bill would mark the first time in modern U.S. history that a living president appears on circulating currency, a break from long-standing tradition in American monetary design.