The commission responsible for orchestrating America’s 250th birthday celebrations has entered a storm of controversy after dismissing its executive director, Ari Abergel, for what it described as “serious breaches of authority and trust.” The U.S. Semiquincentennial Commission, often referred to as America250, confirmed the decision Tuesday, noting that Abergel who was appointed earlier this year by the Trump administration took actions that overstepped his authority. According to the commission, Abergel gained unauthorized access to an official social media account and carried out activities involving programming, finances, and communications without approval. Rosie Rios, the former U.S. Treasurer under President Barack Obama and current chair of the commission, is now leading the search for new leadership. A successor will be chosen in consultation with the White House, underscoring the high stakes surrounding a body tasked with planning nationwide festivities for such a historic occasion.The dismissal has quickly attracted attention, not only because of the importance of the commission’s mission, but also due to its political undertones. Earlier this year, President Donald Trump placed several of his allies in key roles within America250, including Abergel and his former campaign manager Chris LaCivita, who serves as an adviser.

Commission officials have stressed that their decision was not political but rooted in governance and security concerns. They explained that weeks before the dismissal, the commission had already issued directives limiting Abergel’s control over digital platforms, including its website and social media presence. Abergel, however, disputes the commission’s account. In a statement, he argued that his firing was retaliation for a social media post honoring conservative commentator Charlie Kirk, who had been killed the day before at a Utah university event. The post, shared on September 11 through America250’s Instagram account, featured Kirk’s photo with the words “God bless Charlie Kirk.” Abergel insisted he had full access to the account and that describing his actions as a “security breach” was an exaggerated attempt to justify his removal. “This wasn’t about authority or trust,” Abergel claimed. “It was about a message that leadership didn’t like.” The controversy leaves the Semiquincentennial Commission navigating a sensitive moment. Charged by Congress with preparing events that will bring together millions of Americans to mark the nation’s 250th anniversary in 2026, the commission faces both logistical challenges and now, internal divisions. Observers note that the leadership change could complicate planning at a time when unity and vision are needed most. For now, the commission is moving ahead with its programs while seeking to reassure the public that the milestone celebrations remain on track. But the clash between Abergel and the leadership highlights how even commemorations meant to celebrate national unity can become entangled in questions of politics, trust, and control.