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US unveils Trump-themed passports for 250th anniversary
The White House has confirmed plans to release a limited number of passports featuring a portrait of President Donald Trump as part of celebrations marking the 250th anniversary of the US Declaration of Independence in July.
Availability and design details
According to an administration official who spoke to the BBC, the special-edition passports will be available to any American citizen applying at the Washington Passport Agency once the rollout begins. Supplies will be limited, and the passports will only be issued while stocks last.
A rendering released by the US State Department shows Trump's image surrounded by the text of the Declaration of Independence, the American flag, and his signature in gold foil.
Administration celebrates patriotic initiatives
A White House spokesperson told the BBC that the new passport design offers Americans another way to participate in the 250th anniversary celebrations. The spokesperson highlighted other events tied to the milestone, including the UFC250 Fight, the Great American State Fair, and the Freedom250 Grand Prix.
"President Trump's new patriotic passport design provides yet another great way Americans can join in the spectacular celebrations for America's 250th birthday. [...] President Trump continues to proudly lead a renewal of national pride and patriotism during our historic semiquincentennial celebration."
White House spokesperson
Controversy over Trump's association with government programs
Standard US passports typically feature historical scenes, such as the Moon landing, or iconic symbols like the Statue of Liberty. It remains unclear whether citizens will have the option to decline the Trump-themed edition.
The commemorative passport is the latest in a series of initiatives linking Trump's name and image to government programs. Recent examples include:
- A planned commemorative gold coin by the US Mint featuring Trump as part of the 250th anniversary celebrations.
- Trump set to become the first sitting US president to have his signature appear on banknotes.
- The Kennedy Center's board voted to rename the performing arts venue the Trump-Kennedy Center, a decision criticized by members of the late President John F. Kennedy's family.
Public backlash over monuments and White House changes
In early April, the White House revealed plans for a 250-foot (76-meter) gold-accented victory arch, dubbed the "Arc de Trump," in Washington, DC. A federal panel granted preliminary approval despite widespread public opposition and concerns from preservationist groups.
Trump has also made permanent alterations to the White House, including the demolition of the East Wing to make way for a ballroom. The National Trust for Historic Preservation has since filed a lawsuit, alleging that construction began before plans were submitted to the National Capital Planning Commission.
