All about the Dons: House GOP bill would put Trump’s face on $100 note

A New Proposal to Honor a President

In a move that has sparked both interest and debate, Representative Brandon Gill of Texas has introduced legislation aimed at placing President Donald Trump’s likeness on the $100 bill. This proposal, unveiled in October 2023, is part of a broader effort by some lawmakers to recognize Trump’s impact on American policy and politics. Gill, a first-term congressman and a staunch supporter of Trump, believes the former president’s efforts in areas such as border security, trade reform, energy independence, and foreign aid warrant this unique honor. The bill proposes that Trump’s image replace Benjamin Franklin on the $100 note, with designs set to be released by 2026 and circulation beginning in 2029.

The Legislative Process and Its Significance

Representative Gill’s initiative is not the first attempt to feature Trump on U.S. currency. Earlier in October, Representative Joe Wilson of South Carolina introduced a bill to create a new $250 note bearing Trump’s image. However, Gill’s proposal is more ambitious, seeking to place Trump on one of the most widely recognized denominations. This move aligns with Gill’s vocal support for Trump since entering Congress earlier in 2023. The proposal has garnered attention for its boldness and the challenges it faces, including the need to amend current laws that prohibit living individuals from being featured on currency.

Legal Hurdles in the Way

One of the significant obstacles to realizing this proposal is the legal requirement that individuals featured on U.S. currency must be deceased. This rule, established to avoid the appearance of honoring the living for political gain, means that legislation would need to be amended to allow Trump’s image on the $100 bill. The proposal is thus not only a symbolic gesture but also a legislative challenge, requiring bipartisan support to change existing laws. This legal hurdle underscores the broader debate about the role of politics in shaping national symbols.

Historical Context of Currency Changes

The history of U.S. currency changes reveals the rarity and significance of such decisions. The last time a new face was added to a bill was in 1929, with the introduction of Andrew Jackson on the $20 note, replacing Grover Cleveland. More recent attempts to update the currency, such as the Obama administration’s plan to feature Harriet Tubman on the $20 note, have faced delays and political challenges. The Biden administration reignited these efforts in 2021, but they remain incomplete. This historical context highlights the complexity and contentious nature of altering U.S. currency.

Reactions and Implications

The reaction to Representative Gill’s proposal has been diverse, reflecting the polarized political landscape. Supporters argue that the move would honor Trump’s contributions and align with his "America First" agenda. Critics, however, have expressed concerns about the politicization of currency and the potential diversion from more pressing policy issues. The proposal also raises questions about the criteria for selecting individuals to be featured on currency and whether political figures should be given such honors.

Conclusion: The Broader Debate

Representative Gill’s proposal to feature Donald Trump on the $100 bill has ignited a broader conversation about the intersection of politics, history, and national identity. While the legislation faces significant legal and political hurdles, it reflects a wider cultural debate about how to recognize and honor leaders. As the proposal moves through Congress, it will undoubtedly continue to be a topic of discussion, highlighting the challenges and implications of altering U.S. currency to reflect contemporary political priorities.