President Donald Trump on Friday presented a design for a special US passport marking the nation’s 250th anniversary of independence, which includes his portrait. In a post on his Truth Social account, Trump shared the design and noted it carries the phrase ‘Welcome, but be good!’ The image depicts Trump seated at a desk with his signature and the text of the Declaration of Independence behind him. The reverse side shows an illustration of the 1776 signing of the Declaration along with the words ‘United States of America 250.’ The White House posted the same design on social media and referred to it as the ‘PATRIOT PASSPORT.’ The State Department had previously stated that a commemorative passport with custom artwork would become available from July 6 but offered no immediate response to the new design. Officials indicated earlier that the Trump-themed passports would be issued only through in-person appointments in Washington and only while supplies remain. Trump has placed his mark on various government elements, including banners at federal buildings and his signature on the one-dollar bill. He also attempted to attach his name to the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, though a court ordered its removal. The designs are intended for any American citizen applying during the period and will stay available as long as supplies last. The announcement coincides with stricter screening rules for foreign visitors requiring compliance with US laws. These measures align with the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which has attracted many international travelers. If used, Trump would be the first sitting president featured on American passports. Online reactions varied, with some users questioning the duration of availability, others asking how to request one, and a few expressing relief at having recently renewed their passports or inquiring about options without the portrait.
