Donald Trump is Leaving His Forced Legacy On the US Dollar Bill

The US Treasury Department announced Thursday, March 26, that Donald Trump will become the first sitting president to have his signature appear on the US dollar, a move officials say is intended to commemorate America’s 250th anniversary. The decision raised immediate questions about the notes’ future once the current administration leaves office. While US law guarantees all issued currency remains legal tender indefinitely, a future administration could quietly stop printing them. Trump is Breaking a 165 Year Economic Tradition Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent’s signature will appear alongside Trump’s, beginning with $100 bills in June, with other denominations to follow. In a press release, Bessent framed the decision as recognition of the administration’s economic record. “There is no more powerful way to recognize the historic achievements of our great country and President Donald J. Trump than US dollar bills bearing his name, and it is only appropriate that this historic currency be issued at the Semiquincentennial,” he said. Treasurer Brandon Beach echoed the sentiment, describing Trump as “the architect of America’s Golden Age economic revival.” “Printing his signature on the American currency is not only appropriate, but also well deserved,” Beach said. The announcement marked a significant departure from longstanding practice. In celebration of America’s 250th anniversary, President Donald J. Trump’s signature alongside @SecScottBessent's will soon appear on U.S. currency, marking a first in history, and symbolizes @POTUS' leadership and dedication to our great nation will carry a lasting impact.…— U.S. Treasurer Brandon Beach (@TreasurerBeach) March 26, 2026 Since 1861, US banknotes have carried only the signatures of the Treasury Secretary and the Treasurer. The current bills in circulation bear the signatures of former Secretary Janet Yellen and former Treasurer Lynn Malerba. The reaction was swift. California Governor Gavin Newsom was among the firs...