President Donald Trump has dismissed several Biden-era appointees from the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Council, including Doug Emhoff, husband of former Vice President Kamala Harris. Emhoff, appointed in January 2025 for a five-year term, was informed of his termination via email from the White House Presidential Personnel Office. Other removed members include Ron Klain, Susan Rice, Anthony Bernal, and Tom Perez.
Emhoff, who is Jewish and led the Biden administration’s efforts to combat antisemitism, criticized the move, stating, “Holocaust remembrance and education should never be politicized.” He emphasized that politicizing such remembrance dishonors the memory of the six million Jews murdered by Nazis.
The White House, while not directly acknowledging the firings, confirmed plans to appoint new board members. Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt stated that President Trump aims to install individuals who are steadfast supporters of the State of Israel.
The U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum, a federally funded institution overseen by the council, affirmed its commitment to Holocaust education amid the leadership changes. In a statement, the museum highlighted the increasing demand for Holocaust education and its dedication to advancing its mission in collaboration with the Trump administration.
