Trump took it seriously: His portrait on a $250 bill
As widely known, last year Republican Congressman Joe Wilson proposed putting Trump's portrait on a commemorative $250 bill to mark the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States and "symbolically honor" Trump.
At the time, the public dismissed it as a joke—but surprisingly, Trump seems to have actually taken the proposal seriously.
On the 28th, CNN reported that the U.S. Bureau of Engraving and Printing is planning to issue a commemorative $250 bill featuring Trump’s portrait. The U.S. Treasury subsequently confirmed this plan.
Although U.S. media pointed out that placing a living person’s portrait on currency requires congressional legislation, Treasury Secretary Bessent stated that putting Trump’s image on a commemorative bill “is perfectly acceptable.”
To be fair, if this had happened when Trump first returned to the White House, it would have caused a massive uproar. But today, it barely raises an eyebrow—because over the past year or so, Trump has done so many bizarre things that having his face on money is no longer particularly shocking.
Trump’s persistent effort to “monetize” his image is clearly driven by two goals: first, to flaunt his authority and personal leadership; second, to make money. Beyond the commemorative bill, Trump also plans to launch a series of products bearing his portrait or name—including national park annual passes, commemorative coins, clothing, and even golf balls—aiming to forcibly tie his personal brand to the 250th anniversary of the nation’s founding.
Original source: toutiao.com/article/1866498453689344/
Disclaimer: This article reflects the personal views of the author