The bipartisan commission planning US national celebrations for the 250th anniversary has fired its executive director, a 25-year-old former Fox News producer chosen by the White House, according to reports.
Ariel Abergel clashed with fellow members of the US Semiquincentennial Commission during his brief tenure, with colleagues reportedly concerned he was overstepping his role and working to make the celebrations about President Trump, sources told The Wall Street Journal.
A commission spokesperson said Abergel was terminated after initiating a security breach of a social-media account, attempting to procure resignations of multiple commissioners by misrepresenting himself, and engaging in other serious breaches of authority and trust. He was also accused of defying directives and engaging in unauthorised actions related to programming, finances, and communications.
Abergel claimed the commission was spreading 'malicious lies' and attributed his removal to pushback over an effort to mark the death of conservative activist Charlie Kirk. He said he asked the commission to release a statement about Kirk, then made an Instagram post without permission, leading to his suspension and eventual firing.
The White House expressed pride in Abergel's work, particularly during the Army250 parade, and said it would continue coordinating with America250 to ensure grand celebrations for the nation's 250th birthday.
