South Carolina Rep. Joe Wilson has announced plans to introduce legislation for a $250 bill featuring Donald Trump, despite federal law prohibiting living persons from appearing on U.S. currency. “Bidenflation has destroyed the economy forcing American families to carry more cash. Most valuable bill for most valuable President!” Wilson declared.
The Republican congressman is drafting legislation that would direct the Bureau of Engraving and Printing to design the new denomination with the former president’s likeness. “Grateful to announce that I’m drafting legislation to direct the Bureau of Engraving and Printing to design a $250 Bill featuring Donald J. Trump,” Wilson stated in his announcement.
Legal Hurdles
The proposal faces significant legal obstacles. Current federal law explicitly prohibits living persons from being depicted on American currency, meaning legislation would need to change existing statutes before any such bill could be produced.
No living person has ever appeared on U.S. currency, making the proposal unprecedented in American monetary history. The tradition has been to honor deceased presidents and founding fathers.
Political Context
Wilson’s proposal comes amid broader Republican efforts to honor the former president. It’s part of a pattern of tributes that have emerged as Trump maintains his position as the party’s most influential figure.
The timing appears strategic, playing to GOP primary voters in states where Trump remains especially popular. Political analysts suggest it’s designed to appeal to the base while highlighting economic concerns under the current administration.
The proposal also surfaces amid ongoing inflation concerns, with Wilson suggesting that Americans need to carry more cash due to economic conditions under President Biden.
While the legislation faces long odds of becoming law, it has already accomplished one likely goal: generating attention for both Wilson and Trump. “Bidenflation has destroyed the economy forcing American families to carry more cash,” Wilson insisted. “Most valuable bill for most valuable President!”