President Donald Trump unveiled a rendering of a new limited-edition US passport on Friday, featuring his stern-faced likeness to mark the country's 250th anniversary of independence. The commemorative passport, dubbed the 'PATRIOT PASSPORT' by the White House, includes a portrait of Trump leaning on his desk, with the text of the Declaration of Independence in the background.
Design and Features
The passport mock-up, shared by Trump on his Truth Social platform, includes his signature and the phrase 'Welcome, but be good!' The opposite page shows a painting depicting the signing of the Declaration of Independence in 1776, with the words 'United States of America 250.' The portrait appears to be based on a photograph taken by White House photographer Daniel Torok.
Availability and Distribution
The State Department previously announced that a commemorative passport with 'custom artwork' would be available from July 6. However, it did not immediately respond to a request for comment on the Trump-themed passport. In April, a department official stated that the Trump-themed passports would only be available at in-person appointments in Washington 'for as long as there is availability.'
Trump's Personal Touch
This move is part of Trump's broader effort to imprint his personal stamp on government institutions. Banners featuring the president have been flown outside several government buildings, and the Treasury Department announced that Trump's signature will soon appear on the one-dollar bill. Additionally, Trump added his name to the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, although a court later ruled that it should be removed.
Historical Context
Trump will be the first sitting US president to be featured on Americans' travel documents. This commemorative passport is intended to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the United States' independence, a significant milestone in the nation's history.
