White House dismisses all six members of the Commission of Fine Arts

The White House on Tuesday dismissed all six members of the Commission of Fine Arts, the independent federal agency that advises the president, Congress and the District of Columbia on design, preservation and the aesthetic treatment of federal buildings and public spaces in Washington, D.C. Commissioners said they were informed by an email from the Presidential Personnel Office that their appointments were terminated effective immediately.

The email sent to commissioners stated, "On behalf of President Donald J. Trump, I am writing to inform you that your position as a member of the Commission on Fine Arts is terminated, effective immediately." A White House official said the administration will appoint a new slate of members who are more aligned with President Trump’s America First policies.

Established by Congress in 1910, the Commission of Fine Arts reviews plans for monuments, memorials, federal buildings and other projects affecting the capital’s appearance. The six ousted commissioners had been appointed by former President Joe Biden to four-year terms, with some terms not set to expire until 2028. The commission’s staff informed outside parties that employees are...