Donald Trump has appointed his 26-year-old former receptionist, Chamberlain Harris, to the Commission of Fine Arts (CFA), which is currently reviewing his extravagant plans for a $400 million ballroom at the White House. Harris, who lacks a significant background in the arts, will be sworn in alongside the panel on Thursday, following Trump’s dismissal of the entire previous commission in October.
Harris’s professional journey began with a bachelor’s degree in political science from the University at Albany, SUNY, in 2019, where she also minored in communications and economics. She subsequently joined the Trump administration as a receptionist, earning the title of “receptionist of the United States” in September 2020. Following Trump’s electoral loss in 2020, she continued to serve him as an aide, ultimately rising to the position of deputy director of Oval Office operations.
Traditionally, the CFA, established over a century ago, is composed of individuals with substantial expertise in the fine arts, intended to provide guidance on significant projects in the capital. However, some former commissioners have expressed concern that Harris’s qualifications may not align with this longstanding intention. Despite her limited art-related experience, White House Communications Director Steven Cheung defended her appointment, asserting that Harris possesses a profound understanding of the President’s vision and appreciation for the arts.
As the youngest member of the commission, Harris will be involved in the evaluation of Trump’s ambitious ballroom project, which has faced scrutiny for bypassing federal review requirements. The ambitious plans have led to the demolition of the East Wing of the White House. Recent architectural changes have sparked debates over whether the project aligns with traditional standards, with Trump recently replacing the ballroom’s chief architect after concerns were raised regarding the project’s scale.
In addition to the ballroom, the CFA will also consider Trump’s other proposed projects, including a planned $100 million triumphal arch. Meanwhile, the National Trust Preservation Committee has launched a lawsuit against Trump, alleging he has acted beyond his authority to expedite the controversial ballroom.
These developments illustrate the ongoing tension surrounding Trump’s administration and its impact on federal arts oversight. As the landscape of federal commissions shifts, Harris’s role within the CFA will be closely watched as she navigates the complexities of art and architecture in the heart of the nation’s capital.