Why Trump had a wad of cash in his back pocket

While boarding Air Force One during a fundraising swing through California, President Trump was photographed with multiple $20 bills visible in his back pocket.

The photo, taken at Moffett Federal Airfield in Mountain View by Reuters photographer Tom Brenner on Tuesday, quickly went viral.

Speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One on his return flight to Washington on Wednesday night, the president was asked about the photo and if he normally carries loose cash in his pocket.

“I do! I do!” Trump said, pulling a large wad of cash from the right back pocket of his pants and holding it up for the press cabin to see, according to a White House pool report.

Money is seen in the back pocket of President Trump as he boards Air Force One at Moffett Federal Airfield in Mountain View, Calif., on Tuesday. (Photo: Tom Brenner/Reuters)
Money is seen in President Trump's back pocket as he boards Air Force One at Moffett Federal Airfield in Mountain View, Calif., on Tuesday. (Photo: Tom Brenner/Reuters)

The president — who has refused to release his tax returns — explained that he doesn’t have use for a wallet.

“I don’t carry a wallet because I haven’t had to use a credit card in a long time,” he said. “I do like leaving tips to the hotel. I like to carry a little something. I like to give tips to the hotel. I’m telling you, maybe a president’s not supposed to do it, but I like to leave a tip for the hotel, etc., etc.”

The real estate mogul seemed impressed that the photographer was able to capture the image, adding that he’d like a copy for himself.

“Boy, that’s a good picture,” he said. “Hey, I’d like a piece of that picture.”

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