President-elect Donald Trump has once again pledged to forgo the $450,000 annual presidential salary during his upcoming term in office.
This decision mirrors his actions during his first term, where he donated the entirety of his salary to government agencies and initiatives, a move that underscored his commitment to serving the nation without personal financial benefit, as reported by The Gateway Pundit.
Speaking during a recent interview with NBC’s Kristen Welker, Trump reaffirmed his stance, rejecting the notion of taking a paycheck for public service. When asked if he planned to accept the presidential salary, Trump responded unequivocally:
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“I’m not going to accept a salary, no. I’m giving up a lot of money. Do you know what amazed me? Maybe this isn’t right, but other than George Washington—and they’re not sure about that—every President has accepted their salary except me.”
Trump went on to emphasize his broader intention, pointing out that his decision was about principle rather than necessity. “I don’t believe I got any credit for that,” he added. “But I just feel for me, it’s a nice thing to do.”
Trump says he again will not take a salary! Man of the people! pic.twitter.com/RmbhiHfvAQ
— David J Harris Jr (@DavidJHarrisJr) December 9, 2024
Trump’s generosity, however, received scant attention from the mainstream media, a fact he noted during the interview. Despite his donations supporting the National Park Service, Department of Education, and other federal agencies, recognition for his fiscal responsibility was notably absent from headlines.
This commitment starkly contrasts with the post-presidential financial trajectories of his predecessors. Trump, whose net worth remains robust at $2.3 billion, entered and exited office with little change to his fortune. In comparison, other presidents saw their wealth skyrocket post-presidency.
For example, Bill Clinton’s net worth ballooned from $1.3 million in 1993 to an estimated $120 million by the time he left office.
Similarly, Barack Obama’s net worth increased from $1.3 million in 2009 to approximately $70 million after his presidency.
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These figures paint a striking picture of how Trump’s financial independence sets him apart from the political elite.
Trump’s decision to forgo the presidential salary is emblematic of his broader “America First” philosophy. Rather than enriching himself, he has focused on leading by example, proving his dedication to the American people and fiscal responsibility.
While his critics in the media may downplay his actions, Trump’s refusal to accept a salary remains a testament to his commitment to selfless public service.
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