Legislative Proposal
Republican Representative Brandon Gill of Texas has proposed replacing Benjamin Franklin’s face on the $100 bill with Donald Trump’s image once his current term ends. Gill argues that Trump, for his efforts to “put America First,” deserves this honor.
Gill notes that instead of enjoying retirement, Trump is working on:
- Border security
- Trade
- Energy independence
- Reducing foreign aid
He likens this to taking “a bullet for the country,” warranting what he calls “a small way to honor all he will accomplish these next four years.”
The process of changing currency is complex. The last major change to U.S. currency was in 1929 when Andrew Jackson replaced Grover Cleveland on the $20 bill. The proposal to put Harriet Tubman on the $20 bill, initiated during the Obama era and shelved during Trump’s first term, has been revived by the Biden administration but remains incomplete.
Gill’s bill outlines that the Treasury Secretary must reveal a “preliminary design” by the end of 2026, with circulation starting in 2029. However, laws would need to be changed to allow living individuals on currency.
Another proposal by Rep. Joe Wilson from South Carolina suggests creating a new $250 note featuring Trump. This initiative has support from three House conservatives.
Whether these efforts will succeed remains to be seen, but they certainly make for interesting legislative discourse.
Historical Context of Currency
Changing the faces on U.S. currency is a complex process with historical significance. The last major change occurred in 1929 when Andrew Jackson replaced Grover Cleveland on the $20 bill. This shift reflected changing national priorities and sparked some controversy.
More recently, the proposal to feature Harriet Tubman on the $20 bill has faced delays and administrative challenges. Initiated during the Obama administration, postponed under Trump, and revived by Biden, this change highlights the complexity of altering currency designs.
These proposed changes reflect more than just aesthetics—they represent shifting political philosophies and values. The process involves navigating legal, artistic, and practical challenges, making any currency alteration a significant undertaking.
Impact and Implications
The proposal to feature Donald Trump on U.S. currency promises to spark lively debates across the political spectrum. For Trump supporters, it’s a celebration of his “Make America Great Again” vision. Critics might view it as a shift in national priorities or political allegiance.
Internationally, such a change could be seen as a statement of American identity and values. It might influence perceptions of the U.S. and potentially impact economic relationships.
From a practical standpoint, the U.S. Treasury would face unique artistic, legal, and diplomatic challenges in implementing this change. The proposal represents more than just a tribute to a political era; it could mark a turning point in how the nation presents itself on the global stage.
Regardless of the outcome, this bold venture provides an interesting glimpse into the workings of U.S. democracy and the ongoing dialogue about national identity.
Comparison with Other Currency Introductions
Alongside Representative Brandon Gill’s proposal to feature Trump on the $100 bill, Representative Joe Wilson of South Carolina has suggested creating a new $250 bill with Trump’s likeness. These proposals differ in their approach:
- Gill’s idea involves redesigning an existing denomination
- Wilson’s introduces an entirely new one
Wilson’s $250 bill proposal has garnered support from three House conservatives, indicating a broader interest in Trump-inspired currency changes. Both initiatives face similar legal hurdles, as current laws prohibit featuring living individuals on currency.
The motivations behind these proposals range from honoring Trump’s “America First” efforts to potentially stimulating economic discussions. Both would require navigating complex legislative processes and balancing artistic, legal, and political considerations.
These efforts, whether successful or not, add an intriguing chapter to America’s ongoing dialogue about national identity and the symbols we choose to represent our values.
As the discussion unfolds about placing Donald Trump on U.S. currency, one thing stands clear: this proposal could symbolize a monumental shift in how America views its leaders and their legacies. Whether this idea takes flight or remains grounded, it undeniably sparks conversation about national identity and the values we choose to celebrate.
Interestingly, this proposal comes amid controversy surrounding Trump’s other business ventures. For instance, recent reports reveal that nearly 120,000 copies of Trump’s “God Bless the USA” Bible, priced at $60 each, were printed in China1. This fact stands in stark contrast to Trump’s longstanding criticism of China, highlighting a potential contradiction between his political rhetoric and business practices.
- Associated Press. Trump’s $60 ‘God Bless the USA’ Bible printed in China, importing records show. 2023.