New Bill Mandates Trump on $100 Bills Starting 2029: Treasury to Unveil Design in 2026

The "Golden Age Act of 2025" is pretty straightforward, but it's also packing some serious potential for controversy. Basically, it mandates that all new $100 bills printed after December 31, 2028, feature a portrait of Donald J. Trump. The Treasury Secretary has to show off the preliminary design to the public by December 31, 2026. (SEC. 2)

Cash Makeover

The core of this bill is all about changing up the look of the $100 bill. Instead of Benjamin Franklin, we're getting Trump. This isn't just a minor tweak; it's a significant shift in who gets featured on our money, and that's always a big deal. Think about it, every time you grab a $100, it's going to be a reminder of this change. For a cashier or small business owner handling cash daily, this is a pretty in-your-face update.

Real-World Rollout

So, how will this roll out? By the end of 2026, we'll get a sneak peek at the new design. Then, come 2029, any newly printed $100 bill will have the new portrait. For everyday folks, this means seeing a new face on their money. For businesses, it might mean updating cash-handling machines or training staff to recognize the new design, which could be a hassle and maybe even an expense.

The Bigger Picture

This bill is dropping into a world where we already have a mix of bills in circulation. This could potentially lead to some confusion, especially at first. Also, putting a political figure on currency is bound to stir up some strong feelings. And let's be real, there's the question of whether this is the best use of taxpayer money. Redesigning currency isn't cheap, and there are always questions of whether those resources could be better used elsewhere. It could also set a precedent where future administrations might want to put their own stamp on currency, leading to more frequent and potentially costly changes down the line.