Senator Eric Schmitt of Missouri has called for the removal of Rosie Rios from her role as Chair of the United States Semi-Quincentennial Commission. In a letter addressed to President Trump, Schmitt expressed concerns about Rios’s past statements and their potential impact on the upcoming 250th anniversary celebration of the nation.
Schmitt’s letter highlights remarks made by Rios in July 2016, where she reportedly stated that “nothing good” could come from Trump’s presidential candidacy. Schmitt argues that such statements reflect “extreme partisan bias” and could undermine the commission’s efforts as the anniversary approaches. He emphasized that President Trump has the authority to appoint someone who aligns more closely with his administration’s priorities.
Rosie Rios was appointed as Chair by President Biden in 2022, succeeding Daniel DiLella, Trump’s initial choice for the position. Her appointment followed what Schmitt describes as “highly dubious and controversial circumstances.”
The full content of Senator Schmitt’s letter is available for public viewing.
