1. United States
2. N.Y.
3. Letter

I am deeply concerned about the recent dismissal of all six members of the Commission of Fine Arts and the plans for constructing a $300 million ballroom in the White House. These actions threaten the integrity of our national landmarks and the proper stewardship of public resources. The Commission of Fine Arts, established in 1910, has long provided crucial expert advice on design and aesthetics for federal and Washington DC projects. Its sudden dismantling by the current administration is alarming. This independent agency plays a vital role in preserving the architectural and cultural heritage of our nation's capital. I strongly urge you to take immediate action to reinstate the commission with qualified, non-partisan experts. Furthermore, the proposed White House ballroom project is deeply troubling. This $300 million endeavor, funded by wealthy donors, risks compromising the historical integrity of this national treasure. The White House is not a private residence to be altered at will, but a symbol of our democracy that belongs to all Americans. A recent poll indicates that nearly two-thirds of Americans disapprove of this ballroom plan, demonstrating widespread public opposition. The administration's other proposed projects, such as the "Arc de Trump" mimicking Paris' Arc de Triomphe, further exemplify a concerning trend of personal aggrandizement at the expense of national heritage. These vanity projects divert attention and resources from more pressing national issues. I implore you to take decisive action. Please work to reinstate the Commission of Fine Arts with qualified, independent experts. Additionally, I urge you to introduce or support legislation to halt the White House ballroom construction and any similar projects that threaten the historical and cultural significance of our national landmarks. Our shared heritage must be protected from short-term political interests and personal vanity projects. Time is of the essence. Without swift action, irreversible damage may be done to the White House and the aesthetic integrity of Washington DC. Please prioritize this matter in upcoming legislative sessions and committee meetings. The preservation of our national treasures and the responsible use of public resources depend on your immediate attention to these critical issues.