President Donald Trump has removed Doug Emhoff, the husband of former Vice President Kamala Harris, from the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Council. Along with him, Trump also dismissed several others who were appointed by President Joe Biden. The New York Times first reported this decision.
Other Biden Appointees Removed Too
Trump’s decision also affects top Biden-era officials. These include Ron Klain, who served as Biden’s chief of staff, and Susan Rice, his former domestic policy adviser. The move is part of a broader effort to replace Democratic appointees across key institutions.
Emhoff Speaks Out
Doug Emhoff, the first Jewish spouse of a U.S. vice president, reacted strongly to the news. He released a public statement condemning the decision. “Today, I was informed of my removal from the United States Holocaust Memorial Council. Let me be clear: Holocaust remembrance and education should never be politicized. To turn one of the worst atrocities in history into a wedge issue is dangerous and it dishonors the memory of six million Jews murdered by Nazis that this museum was created to preserve.”
He continued with a firm message: “No divisive political decision will ever shake my commitment to Holocaust remembrance and education or to combatting hate and antisemitism. I will continue to speak out, to educate, and to fight hate in all its forms — because silence is never an option.”
White House Confirms the Decision
The White House has confirmed the removals. Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt explained Trump’s reasoning. She said, “President Trump looks forward to appointing new individuals who will not only continue to honor the memory of those who perished in the Holocaust, but who are also steadfast supporters of the State of Israel.”
Holocaust Museum Responds Carefully
Although the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum did not directly address the removals, it shared a general statement. The museum highlighted the importance of its mission. “At this time of high antisemitism and Holocaust distortion and denial, the Museum is gratified that our visitation is robust and demand for Holocaust education is increasing. We look forward to continuing to advance our vitally important mission as we work with the Trump Administration.”
This action follows a growing trend under Trump’s leadership. Since returning to office, he has been replacing Biden-era appointees in cultural, educational, and advisory roles. These changes reflect his administration’s effort to install allies who support his policies and priorities.
