President-elect Donald Trump has confirmed that he will decline the presidential salary for his upcoming term, continuing a tradition he upheld throughout his first presidency. In a recent interview, Trump reiterated his commitment, stating, “I didn’t accept it before, and I’m not going to this time either.”
Trump’s decision reflects his long-standing campaign promise to forgo the $400,000 annual salary, which is traditionally allotted to the Commander-in-Chief. During his first term, Trump not only refused the salary but also made quarterly donations of the funds to various federal agencies, aligning his financial contributions with his policy priorities.
Donations to Federal Agencies
Between 2017 and 2021, Trump directed his salary to departments and initiatives across the federal government. Recipients included the Department of Veterans Affairs, which received funds to improve care for America’s service members, and the Department of Education, which used the contributions to support underserved students. Other beneficiaries included the Department of Transportation and the Department of Health and Human Services.
In 2018, Trump notably donated a portion of his salary to a federal agency researching alcoholism, citing a personal connection to the issue. His older brother, Fred Trump Jr., struggled with alcoholism, a battle that profoundly impacted Trump’s perspective on substance abuse and public health.
A Legacy of Forfeiting Pay
Trump’s decision echoes a precedent set by past wealthy presidents, such as John F. Kennedy and Herbert Hoover, who also declined the presidential salary. Trump, however, highlighted his unique approach, stating, “I’m not sure if any president besides George Washington did this, but I think it’s the right thing to do.” While Kennedy and Hoover allocated their salaries to charitable causes, Trump’s emphasis on directing the funds to specific government agencies aligns with his goal of directly supporting federal operations.
Criticism and Support
Trump’s refusal of the salary has drawn mixed reactions over the years. Supporters view it as a symbolic gesture of his commitment to public service and a rejection of personal gain while holding the nation’s highest office. Critics, however, have questioned the practical impact of the gesture, citing the broader expenses associated with Trump’s presidency, including security and travel.
Looking Ahead
As Trump prepares to assume office for a second term, he has indicated that he plans to continue donating his salary to causes that align with his administration’s priorities. Potential recipients of the funds remain speculative but may include initiatives aimed at economic recovery, national security, and education reform.
Trump’s announcement reaffirms his approach to the presidency as one of service, stating, “For me, it’s about giving back to the American people and ensuring their hard-earned tax dollars are used effectively. That’s what I’ve done before, and that’s what I’ll keep doing.”
WATCH BELOW
AMAZING: President-elect Donald Trump announces he will REFUSE the presidential salary of $400,000.
“I’m not gonna accept a salary, no.”
“I didn’t take it [the first time]. By the way, I got no credit for that, but that’s okay.”
“I didn’t, and I’m not going to. I just feel… pic.twitter.com/bI7oLzPk15
— Eric Daugherty (@EricLDaugh) December 9, 2024