The United States State Department has confirmed plans to release a limited-edition passport featuring former President Donald Trump’s image, marking a move that has sparked debate over political norms and the branding of government institutions.
The special passport will be issued to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the US Declaration of Independence later this year. The announcement follows earlier reports by Fox News and The Bulwark, which revealed design concepts tied to the commemorative edition.
According to the proposed design, one version of the passport would feature Trump’s official portrait placed over the Declaration of Independence, accompanied by his signature in gold. A second design is said to include a historical illustration of America’s founding fathers.
A State Department spokesperson, Tommy Pigott, said the commemorative passports are intended to celebrate the milestone anniversary, adding that the department is preparing a limited release for eligible applicants. Officials also indicated the passports would be available in Washington and offered without additional cost, subject to availability.
However, it remains unclear whether applicants will have the option to decline the special edition version. The move has raised questions, as modern democratic nations typically avoid featuring sitting or recent political leaders in official travel documents.
The standard US passport currently features historical and cultural imagery, including the Moon landing and the Statue of Liberty, rather than individual political figures.
Critics argue the decision reflects an increasing personal branding of government institutions under Trump, who has already placed his name and imagery on several federal buildings and agencies since returning to office.
In another related development, the US Treasury has also confirmed that Trump’s signature will soon appear on US currency, further fuelling debate over the growing visibility of his personal branding across state institutions.
