Trump to feature on limited number of commemorative US passports The United States government has announced the release of a limited edition of passports that will feature a portrait of former President Donald Trump. The White House confirmed the initiative, which is part of the celebrations marking the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence in July. The design, first reported by Fox News, includes an image of Trump surrounded by text from the Declaration of Independence, the American flag, and his signature in gold. The passports will be available for any American citizen applying for a passport during the rollout period, though availability is expected to be limited. The Washington Passport Agency will be the sole location where these special editions can be obtained. The State Department released a rendering of the passport, showcasing Trump's portrait alongside the historical text and symbols. A White House spokesperson emphasized the significance of the design, stating it provides "yet another great way Americans can join in the spectacular celebrations for America's 250th birthday." The spokesperson also highlighted other events tied to the anniversary, including the UFC250 Fight, the Great American State Fair, and the Freedom250 Grand Prix, which they described as part of Trump's efforts to "renew national pride and patriotism." Current US passports depict scenes from the nation's history, such as the Moon landing, along with iconic symbols like the Statue of Liberty. It remains unclear whether citizens will have the option to opt out of the special edition. The initiative is part of a broader trend of associating Trump's name and likeness with government programs and public infrastructure.#donald_trump #white_house #trump_kennedy_center #declaration_of_independence #washington_passport_agency
Judge Rules Kennedy Center Must Allow Rep. Joyce Beatty to Attend Board Meeting A federal judge has ruled that the Kennedy Center must provide Rep. Joyce Beatty (D-Ohio) a “meaningful opportunity” to participate in the institution’s upcoming board meeting, though she will not be allowed to vote. The decision, issued by U.S. District Judge Christopher Cooper, addresses Beatty’s claim that she was excluded from the March 16 session despite being an ex officio board member. Her legal team later admitted the invitation was sent to her email spam folder, prompting the lawsuit. Cooper’s 37-page ruling emphasized that federal law prohibits the categorical exclusion of a trustee from critical decision-making processes. The judge noted that denying Beatty access to information or her right to voice dissent on a major vote—such as one involving the closure and potential rebuilding of the Kennedy Center—would be rare and unjust. However, the court stopped short of granting her full voting rights, stating the legal basis for such a right was unclear. “While her statutory arguments are persuasive,” Cooper wrote, “the question whether the statute provides a right to vote is not clearcut.” The ruling does not block the Kennedy Center’s planned closure or renaming, which was announced by President Trump and his allies. The center, now called the Trump Kennedy Center, has undergone significant changes since Trump’s return to the presidency, including a restructured board. Trump recently shared updated renovation plans on social media, citing the need for modernization. In a statement, Roma Daravi, the center’s vice president of public relations, confirmed that Beatty was invited to the meeting and is welcome to attend.#kennedy_center #judge_christopher_cooper #rep_joyce_beatty #trump_kennedy_center #romas_daravi
