The White House has officially terminated all six members of the Commission of Fine Arts (CFA), a body responsible for reviewing controversial construction projects initiated by President Donald Trump. This decision, confirmed by a White House official to ABC News, aligns with the administration's intent to appoint new members who are more in tune with Trump's America First Policies.
The six members, originally appointed by former President Joe Biden, were dismissed on Tuesday night. Notably, the seventh seat on the CFA had been vacant prior to this change. The White House is gearing up to appoint a fresh slate of commissioners who will likely support Trump's ambitious construction initiatives.
The removal of the CFA members eliminates a potential hurdle for Trump's significant $300 million ballroom project, which is being constructed on the White House grounds following the demolition of a large part of the East Wing. Additionally, the president aims to erect a ceremonial arch reminiscent of the Arc de Triomphe in Paris, positioned in a roundabout in front of Arlington National Cemetery and the Arlington Memorial Bridge, which spans the Potomac River near the Lincoln Memorial. Trump has stated that funding for both projects will come from private donations.
Despite ongoing scrutiny regarding the legality and review processes associated with these projects, the president has been largely reticent in addressing these concerns. The Commission of Fine Arts plays a critical role in advising the federal government on preserving the aesthetic integrity of the nation’s capital, offering expert recommendations on construction projects while lacking definitive approval power.
The CFA's next meeting is scheduled for November 20; however, the ongoing government shutdown casts doubt on whether this meeting will proceed as planned. According to the CFA's official website, the commission intends to start accepting submissions for new projects once the government reopens.
In addition to evaluating federal construction designs, the CFA also provides insights on the design of coins, medals, and private building projects. Importantly, the president is not legally bound to adhere to the CFA's recommendations. Historical precedence exists, as seen when President Harry Truman proceeded with a balcony addition to the White House despite the CFA's objections.
Federal projects in the Washington, D.C. area are typically overseen by the National Capital Planning Commission (NCPC), which is also guided by Trump appointees. Will Scharf, currently serving as the White House staff secretary, chairs the NCPC and has expressed strong support for the ballroom project. In a recent meeting, Scharf conveyed the president's high regard for the commission, emphasizing excitement about the role the NCPC could play in the ballroom's development.
On a related note, the Senate's Energy and Natural Resources Committee is scheduled to convene on Wednesday to discuss aspects of the National Historic Preservation Act. While the hearing will primarily focus on guidelines not applicable to the White House, it is anticipated that the ballroom project will be a topic of interest.
