March 29, 2026
Dear editor;
I recently heard Donald Trump announced he is having his signature put on paper currency. There also will be a new minted gold coin bearing his head shot. Of course, headshots or portraits of living presidents are not allowed in current legal code. One has to wonder why the president would make such a move. He can’t do it without a fight and confusion; this does not even count the dismay and decreasing satisfaction score among voters of all stripes. What must this do to the confidence score of all who work in government, especially the Treasury?
I came up with a theory: People might avoid paper currency because they feel queasy and unsure of how long this currency will be legal and accepted. Why take the chance? It would be further towards that paperless economy I dread and fear. Why do I prefer paper, checks, and U.S. Mail, over online payments? One has to have a computer. One has to be comfortable with muscle motion needed to scroll and click. I am 70 now and feel my skill is declining. Eyesight may be another issue in time. This slow-down will happen to everyone who enjoys (reaches) retirement. I also think that unless there is a paper record, amounts, dates, and descriptions can be changed by those with access to the digital content.
As you probably know, AT&T is phasing out traditional, copper-based landlines aiming to complete the transition to digital or fiber-based voice services by 2029. With it comes more AI, data centers, and more surveillance and sales of our personal data.
Mary Goetsch, Aurora