US senators demand probe into costs of Trump banknote

U.S. Democratic senators are calling for an investigation into the planned expenses for a proposed $250 banknote that would feature President Donald Trump. The senators have urged the U.S. Treasury Department's Office of Inspector General to scrutinize the initiative, which they deem unlawful.

According to Axios, existing U.S. legislation prohibits the depiction of living individuals on currency. The issuance of a banknote bearing Trump's portrait would require explicit approval from Congress. The senators argue that the Treasury Department should prioritize addressing pressing economic challenges instead of pursuing what they describe as a "vanity project."

The senators have requested an assessment of the projected costs associated with the banknote's production. They also seek to determine whether external parties were involved in the initiative and if the legality of the proposal has been thoroughly examined. The demand highlights a political dispute over the use of government resources and the potential for partisan projects.