Architect of the Capitol fired by President Biden after strong bipartisan criticism

Architect of the Capitol J. Brett Blanton was fired by President Biden for alleged ethical violations and strong criticism by members of Congress from both sides of the aisle.

Blanton was responsible for upkeep and operation of over 18 million sf of buildings and 570 acres of land at the U.S. Capitol. An investigation conducted by the Architect of the Capitol Inspector General’s Office found Blanton had “abused his authority, misused government property and wasted taxpayer money, among other substantiated violations.”

Blanton was sharply criticized during a House Administration Committee hearing, where he told lawmakers that he wasn’t on the grounds during the Jan. 6 attack on the Capitol. Blanton said he was “directing personnel” from his government vehicle, which he said served as his office’s mobile command post during the riot.

Blanton said the inspector general’s report “is filled with errors, omissions, mischaracterizations, misstatements, and conclusionary statements lacking evidence."