President Donald Trump has sparked criticism after promoting a new limited edition US passport design that features his face. The passport, released to celebrate the United States' 250th anniversary, will be the default passport issued by the Washington Passport Agency from this summer.
In a Truth Social post on Friday, June 26, Trump wrote: 'The U.S.A.'s New Passport, which says, 'Welcome, but be good!' President DJT.' However, the phrase 'welcome, but be good' does not appear on the passport images released by the administration.
Critics have questioned whether Trump understands the purpose of a passport, which is primarily used by US citizens to travel abroad, not to enter the country. One commentator said: 'This raises the question, does Donald Trump know what a passport is for? Welcome to who? The US passport is for Americans. We use it to go other places.'
Social media users also pointed out the apparent confusion, with one writing: 'He doesn’t know the difference between a passport and a visa.' Another asked: 'Does he not understand how passports work or that they are issued to AMERICAN CITIZENS?'
The passports will be available this summer, and no changes are expected. US citizens who wish to avoid the limited edition design can order their renewal online or at a different physical location than the Washington Passport Agency, where standard passports will be issued. It remains unclear whether those applying in person can opt out.
When released, Donald Trump will become the first living, current president to feature on a US passport.
