On Wednesday, the White House unveiled a limited-edition “Patriot Passport” featuring US President Donald Trump's photo. with this, this becomes the first time a living American president has been included in a US passport.
The design, released ahead of America’s 250th anniversary celebrations, places Trump’s portrait on the inside cover alongside national symbols like the Declaration of Independence and the US flag, with his signature highlighted in gold.
Officials said the commemorative passport is part of nationwide plans for the July milestone, with a limited number to be issued through the Washington Passport Agency. A White House spokesperson called it a patriotic addition to the celebrations, while the State Department said it is preparing a special release to mark the historic occasion.
The move has triggered political criticism. Democratic Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi called the decision “absurd,” arguing that passports should represent citizens rather than any individual leader. Other Democratic lawmakers also criticised Secretary of State Marco Rubio, accusing him of prioritising political optics over public concerns.
The passport initiative comes amid a broader trend of incorporating Trump’s image and branding into official commemorations, including proposals for currency designs and a $1 coin as part of the America 250 celebrations.