Trump Faces Opposition Over Penny Production Halt

President Donald Trump has ordered the U.S. Treasury to halt the production of pennies, citing the high cost of minting each coin, which currently exceeds its face value. This decision has been met with opposition from the zinc industry and lobbying groups like Americans for Common Cents, concerned about potential cost and inflation impacts from rounding to the nearest nickel. The legal authority for such a move is debated, though some argue the Treasury Secretary can act independently of Congress. Despite similarities to past unsuccessful attempts to abolish the penny, Trump's move aligns with a broader governmental efficiency initiative. Critics, including media figures, have suggested Trump's motivations may be more personal or political than fiscal. The decision follows a global trend, as countries like Canada have already phased out their equivalent coins due to similar economic concerns.