The White House has terminated six members of the U.S. Commission of Fine Arts, an advisory body on architectural and design standards for federal sites. This independent agency has played a central role in reviewing design proposals since its establishment in 1910.
Recent Changes to the Commission
The dismissed commissioners include:
- Bruce Redman Becker
- Peter D. Cook
- Lisa E. Delplace
- William J. Lenihan
- Justin Garrett Moore
- Hazel Ruth Edwards (Vice Chair)
The chair position, previously held by Billie Tsien, is now vacant. The White House plans to appoint new members aligned with President Trump’s America First policies. These changes are part of an ongoing effort to reshape the commission’s direction.
Significance of the Commission
The U.S. Commission of Fine Arts has been instrumental in shaping significant national landmarks, from the Arlington National Cemetery to Maya Lin’s Vietnam Veterans Memorial. Its expertise spans architecture, art, and landscape design.
Upcoming Projects and Future Directions
The commission was expected to provide guidance on key projects, such as:
- The anticipated White House ballroom redesign
- A monument to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence
Architect Bruce Redman Becker noted that neither project had been submitted for review prior to the dismissals.
Historical Context
This shakeup is not the first of its kind. In 2021, President Biden dismissed four commissioners appointed by Trump, including Justin Shubow, who advocates for traditional architecture. Shubow had previously served as the commission’s chair during Trump’s term.
The White House has not commented on these terminations or the future of the commission following this significant leadership change. The next steps remain uncertain as new appointments will define the commission’s trajectory.
