In an unprecedented departure from longstanding tradition, the US Treasury Department has announced that President Donald Trump will become the first sitting commander-in-chief to have his signature printed on American banknotes. The controversial decision, revealed by Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, forms part of the administration’s commemorative plans for America’s 250th anniversary celebrations in 2026.
Secretary Bessent characterized the move as “the most powerful way to recognize the historic achievements of our great country and President Donald J. Trump.” This breaks with the established convention wherein only Treasury officials’ signatures appear on currency. The new $100 bills featuring both Trump’s and Bessent’s signatures are scheduled for production beginning June 2026, with other denominations to follow progressively.
The announcement has ignited immediate political controversy. California Governor Gavin Newsom, a prominent Democratic critic, launched a scathing response on social media, stating: “Now Americans will know exactly who to blame as they’re paying more for groceries, gas, rent, and health care.”
This currency initiative represents the latest in a series of administration efforts to associate Trump’s name with government institutions. Previous attempts have faced significant public opposition, most notably the proposed renaming of Washington’s Kennedy Center to the Trump-Kennedy Center, which prompted several artists to cancel performances.
The Treasury Department confirmed that current banknotes bearing signatures from former Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen and Treasurer Lynn Malerba will remain in circulation. This move terminates a tradition dating back to 1861 wherein only the Treasury Secretary and Treasurer’s signatures appeared on US currency.
Current US Treasurer Brandon Beach defended the decision, asserting that American currency will “continue to stand as a symbol of prosperity, strength, and the unshakable spirit of the American people.” The administration previously drew attention during the COVID-19 pandemic when Trump’s name appeared on economic stimulus checks distributed to millions of citizens.