President Donald Trump has removed several individuals appointed by Joe Biden from the United States Holocaust Memorial Council. Among them is Doug Emhoff, husband of former Vice President Kamala Harris. Others removed include Ron Klain, who served as Biden’s chief of staff, and Susan Rice, the former domestic policy adviser. The New York Times first reported the decision.

Emhoff Responds Strongly

Doug Emhoff, the first Jewish spouse of a U.S. vice president, issued a public statement after his removal.
“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 further added, “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.”

Trump Administration Explains Decision

A White House official confirmed the dismissals. Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt 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.”

Museum Focuses on Education

The U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum did not comment directly on the firings. However, it released a general statement about its current priorities. “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 decision reflects a larger effort by President Trump to replace Biden-era appointees across cultural and educational organizations. His administration continues to reshape various federal councils and institutions with its own selections.