President Donald Trump on Friday unveiled a new passport featuring an image of himself leaning over a desk with his balled fists. The document also includes an unusual phrase: 'Welcome, but be good!' — a message that critics say sounds more like a warning to visitors than a greeting for returning citizens.
Details of the New Passport
Trump shared images of the passport on his Truth Social platform, writing that the new books would contain the phrase. It is not clear where the phrase will appear, as it is not visible on the images shared by Trump or those on display at the 'Great American State Fair' in Washington. A limited edition U.S. Passport featuring Trump was displayed at the State Department exhibit at the fair on June 28, 2026.
The image differs from one the White House teased in April, which focused on Trump's 'scowling face' and part of his torso. The State Department announced that the Trump passport will be available starting July 6 for a limited time at the Washington Passport Agency. Those who apply elsewhere, including online, will receive the standard passport.
Criticism on Social Media
Critics on social media tore into Trump for taking the unprecedented step of putting his own image on the document. Many pointed out the awkward phrase. Stephen Richer tweeted, 'If Obama had done anything 1/10th as self-aggrandizing with public funds on government documents or buildings... Republicans would have (rightly) been calling it tin-pot dictator stuff.'
Melanie D'Arrigo wrote, 'When you put a menacing picture of yourself on the U.S. passports and write “Welcome, but be good!” you’re admitting that you don’t understand what U.S. passports are and who gets them.' John Aravosis commented, 'This is so embarrassing. Trump thinks US passports are things that foreigners use to enter the United States. Tell me the man doesn’t have dementia.'
Reactions from Public Figures
Other notable figures also weighed in. George Conway sarcastically noted, 'When I approach a passport control officer when entering a foreign country, I always say, “Welcome, but be good!” Thanks to our stable genius leader who knows exactly what passports and asylum are and how to stop hurricanes and algae, I no longer need to do this.' Brandon Weichert warned, 'Yeah, traveling with this abroad will ensure you get the rectal exam at a foreign airport security checkpoint.'
Gregg Nunziata stated, 'It is a historic tragedy that we approach our 250th birthday cursed with a president who misunderstands his constitutional role, misunderstands patriotism, and misunderstands America itself.' Billy Binion referenced George Washington, who opposed putting his face on a coin, saying, 'The Founders would think this narcissism from Trump is pathetic.'
Comparisons to Dictators and Waste of Taxpayer Money
Several critics compared Trump's move to authoritarian practices. Justin Stapley wrote, 'Glorification of a “strongman” is the opposite of American patriotism.' Chris Meloni simply tweeted 'PEDOPHILE PASSPORT,' while Anonymous called it 'CRINGE AF.' Harry Sisson complained, 'Can you stop wasting our taxpayer dollars on this shit we just want health care.' Gerald Celente added, 'You can’t pay your bills, Iran controls the Strait of Hormuz, and this is what the clown White House is worried about.'
The new passport is set to be available for a limited time starting July 6, 2026, only at the Washington Passport Agency.
