Proposal Introduced for Donald Trump to Feature on $250 Bill

COLUMBIA, S.C. — Congressman Joe Wilson of South Carolina has proposed legislation to feature former President Donald Trump on a new $250 bill, a move that could mark a historic first for U.S. currency. Wilson announced his plans on Tuesday, stating on X, formerly known as Twitter, “Grateful to announce that I am drafting legislation to direct the Bureau of Engraving and Printing to design a $250 bill featuring Donald J. Trump. Bidenflation has destroyed the economy, forcing American families to carry more cash. Most valuable bill for the most valuable President!”

The proposal aims to address economic concerns that Wilson attributes to what he refers to as “Bidenflation,” the term used by critics of President Biden to describe rising inflation rates. Under Biden’s administration, inflation peaked at 9.1% in mid-2022, prompting significant economic debate and criticisms focused on both internal and external factors, including supply chain disruptions and government policies.

In recent weeks, Republican lawmakers have not just focused on currency. Another bill was introduced to designate Trump’s birthday as a federal holiday. Representative Claudia Tenney of New York stated, “No modern president has been more pivotal for our country than Donald J. Trump. Just as George Washington’s Birthday is recognized, we should honor Trump as the founder of America’s Golden Age.”

Wilson’s bill, if approved, would challenge the existing U.S. law that prohibits living individuals from appearing on currency. Currently, the largest U.S. currency note in circulation is the $100 bill, which has been the case since 1969. The proposed $250 bill would be the highest denomination of legal tender in the United States.

“This proposal represents America’s 250th anniversary next year and celebrates a President committed to battling the economic challenges facing Americans by injecting more cash into their wallets,” Wilson added. However, not all observers are supportive of the idea. Some economists have highlighted that inflation, while down to 3% in early 2025, remains a complex issue intertwined with tariffs and other economic strategies announced by Trump.

A recent Labor Department report revealed that consumer prices showed significant increases, indicating ongoing economic pressures. Concerns persist about Trump’s proposed tariffs, which he previously announced would affect goods from Mexico and Canada, potentially raising consumer prices by 1% according to analyses by Goldman Sachs.

States with initiatives to capitalize on Trump’s likeness have already surfaced. For example, Rep. Anna Paulina Luna of Florida introduced legislation seeking to add Trump’s likeness to Mount Rushmore, emphasizing his perceived historical importance.

While the merit of including Trump on U.S. currency is debated, the idea has stirred enthusiasm among supporters. Wilson stated, “This bill is an acknowledgment of a deserving leader during challenging times.” However, Wilson’s bill has not yet been formally introduced to Congress, nor has a timeline been established for its introduction.