Congressman Questions USPTO Director on 'Board of Peace' TM Apps

A Maryland congressman has asked U.S. Patent and Trademark Office Director John Squires for more information about what he described as a "baffling and legally dubious" effort to obtain trademark protections for President Donald Trump's "Board of Peace." The inquiry, dated July 21, 2026, seeks clarification on applications that were reportedly withdrawn. The letter highlights concerns over the handling of the marks at the USPTO. No further details on the outcome or specific marks have been released publicly. This development occurs amid ongoing scrutiny of high-profile trademark filings involving political figures. The USPTO has not issued an immediate public response to the request for information. Trademark practitioners note that such inquiries from Congress can prompt internal reviews at the agency. The matter involves applications that were pursued but later withdrawn, raising questions about procedural steps taken by the director prior to his current role. Observers await any follow-up correspondence or agency statements. The episode underscores the intersection of political branding and federal trademark processes.

Sources: https://www.law360.com/ip/articles/2503859/squires-pressed-on-board-of-peace-tm-apps-he-withdrew https://www.law360.com/ip