White House Dismisses Design Advisory Commission Amid Trump’s Construction Push

The White House has officially dismissed all six members of the Commission of Fine Arts, a notable federal agency responsible for advising on design and aesthetics matters. This decision comes amid President Donald Trump’s push for significant construction projects in Washington, D.C., including the introduction of a triumphal arch and a new ballroom at the White House.

Dismissal of the Fine Arts Commission

The firings were communicated via email from an adviser in the Presidential Personnel Office. The email, reportedly sent on behalf of President Trump, stated that their positions were terminated immediately. This commission was established by Congress in 1910 to advise on the arts, national symbols, and guide architectural development in the capital.

Context of the Firings

• The Commission of Fine Arts was composed of members appointed by former President Joe Biden.
• Each member served a four-year term.
• The firings mimic similar dismissals of Biden appointees from other boards this year.

The Washington Post first reported on the firings, highlighting their timing with a government shutdown affecting commission staff, who are currently furloughed.

Trump’s Construction Initiatives

The firings coincide with Trump’s ambitious plans for the White House, which includes an extensive renovation of the East Wing and the addition of a proposed 90,000-square-foot ballroom. The estimated cost for the ballroom is around $300 million, which Trump claims will be financed by himself and donors.

Notably, it remains unclear whether the Commission of Fine Arts would have had jurisdiction over the ballroom project, as decisions related to this construction primarily require approval from the National Capital Planning Commission.

Regulatory Landscape

• The National Capital Planning Commission oversees federal construction projects in Washington, D.C., Virginia, and Maryland.
• The Commission of Fine Arts is only involved with “vertical” construction, not demolition.
• Specific laws, including the Shipstead-Luce Act of 1930, govern alterations to buildings facing the White House; however, they do not directly apply to the White House itself.

In addition to the ballroom, President Trump is exploring the possibility of constructing a permanent arch in Washington, D.C., as part of celebrations for the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence in July.

Architectural Preferences

Trump’s administration has also adopted a directive promoting classical architecture for all federal buildings, while simultaneously discouraging brutalist designs. This reflects Trump’s background as a real estate developer and his vision for the capital’s aesthetic.