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White House fires arts commission expected to review Trump construction projects
Source: Washington Post
The White House on Tuesday fired all six members of the Commission of Fine Arts, an independent federal agency that was expected to review some of President Donald Trump’s construction projects, including his planned triumphal arch in Washington.
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The commission, which was established by Congress more than a century ago and traditionally includes a mix of architects and urban planners, is charged with providing advice to the president, Congress and local government officials on design matters related to construction projects in the Capitol region. Former president Joe Biden appointed the six sitting commissioners to four-year terms, several of which should have extended through 2028. Their termination comes as the White House gears up to implement several Trump construction projects, including his planned $300 million White House ballroom, and seeks to install allies on key review boards.
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The Commission on Fine Arts has traditionally reviewed major projects at the White House, but Trump may sidestep its review of his ballroom, citing historical precedent, architectural experts said. During a 1947 battle with President Harry S. Truman, who sought to add a balcony to the White House, CFA’s then-chairman said the panel could serve only in an “advisory” role to the president. Truman ultimately proceeded with his plans, setting an example that Trump appears poised to follow.
White House officials, however, are considering building the arch on federal land that does not qualify to the same exemptions as the White House. As a result, some of the fired commissioners had expected to play a role reviewing the design.
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Read more: washingtonpost.com |
