The United States will unveil a new commemorative passport featuring the image of former President Donald Trump, celebrating the 250th anniversary of the nation’s independence. The passport includes the phrase, “Welcome, but behave! President D.T.”, as confirmed by an official statement.
According to reports, this “patriotic passport” is dedicated to the 250th anniversary of the United States’ independence.
The design features Trump at the Resolute Desk, set against the backdrop of the Declaration of Independence, complete with his signature. Additionally, one page displays John Trumbull’s painting of the Declaration of Independence. In contrast, the inside cover of regular US passports traditionally showcases Percy Moran’s artwork of Francis Scott Key, inspired by the bombardment of Fort McHenry, which led to the writing of the national anthem. Lines from the anthem are also printed inside the cover.
Context
- Festivities celebrating the 250th anniversary of US independence began before July 4. On Flag Day, coinciding with Trump’s 80th birthday, a boxing tournament was held on the White House lawn, drawing thousands of attendees.
- On May 18, The Washington Post reported that White House officials pressured the Bureau of Engraving and Printing to design a $250 bill featuring Trump’s portrait. A bill proposing this had been introduced in Congress last year to honor the 250th anniversary, but it has yet to be voted on. The Bureau agreed to print $100 bills with Trump’s signature, marking the first time in US history that a serving president’s signature has appeared on currency.
- On May 30, Trump criticized artists who declined to perform at celebrations for the independence anniversary, asserting that he is the “biggest star in the world.”
