An image of Donald Trump is set to appear in a limited number of United States passports, marking a significant departure from long-standing tradition, officials confirmed on Tuesday.
The initiative, announced by the State Department, is part of activities commemorating the 250th anniversary of the U.S. Declaration of Independence. The special-edition passports will include a portrait of Trump layered over the historic July 4, 1776 document, along with his signature embossed in gold.
Historically, U.S. passports have featured national symbols, historic landmarks, and notable events rather than images of sitting leaders. If implemented as planned, Trump would become the first sitting U.S. president to appear in the country’s official travel document.
According to State Department spokesperson Tommy Pigott, the commemorative passports will be released in limited quantities to celebrate the milestone anniversary. Another version of the special passport will include artwork depicting America’s Founding Fathers.
Officials noted that the Trump-themed passports will only be available through in-person appointments in Washington, D.C., and will be issued at no extra cost while supplies last. It remains unclear whether applicants will have the option to decline the special design.
The move has sparked criticism from Democratic lawmakers, who questioned the appropriateness of featuring a sitting president in such a manner. Critics, including members of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, accused Secretary of State Marco Rubio of prioritizing political symbolism over pressing national issues.
Globally, passports typically showcase cultural heritage, historical imagery, or natural landmarks. Even countries known for strong personality cults rarely include current leaders in such documents. For instance, Kim Jong Un does not appear in North Korea’s passport, which instead highlights Mount Paektu.
Standard U.S. passports currently display iconic moments and landmarks such as the Moon landing and the Statue of Liberty. However, since returning to office, Trump has increasingly placed his name and image across various government institutions, a move supporters see as branding, but critics view as unprecedented personalization of public office.
Only about half of Americans currently hold valid passports, with international travel rates varying across regions and political demographics, according to surveys.
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