James Blair Appointed to National Capital Planning Commission Amidst Federal Reserve Renovation Scrutiny

Washington D.C. – James Blair, a Deputy Chief of Staff in the White House, has announced his presidential appointment to the National Capital Planning Commission (NCPC), joining newly appointed Chairman Will Scharf. The appointments come as the NCPC is poised to intensify its scrutiny of the Federal Reserve's ongoing $2.5 billion headquarters renovation project, a subject of growing political contention.

Blair confirmed his new role via a social media post, stating, "It is my great honor to receive a Presidential Appointment to the National Capital Planning Commission. First meeting starts soon, led by newly appointed Chairman ⁦@willscharf⁩. Much important business to discuss. Stay tuned!"

The National Capital Planning Commission serves as the central planning agency for federal land and facilities in the National Capital Region, overseeing significant construction and renovation projects. Blair's appointment, alongside Scharf and OMB analyst Stuart Levenbach, follows the removal of previous appointees and is seen by many as a strategic move to exert greater oversight over federal projects, particularly the Federal Reserve's building upgrades.

The Federal Reserve's renovation of its Marriner S. Eccles Building and 1951 Constitution Avenue Building has drawn criticism from the White House, with officials questioning its escalating cost and alleged lavish features. While Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell has stated that extravagant elements like VIP dining rooms and rooftop gardens are not part of the final plan, the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) Director Russell Vought has accused Powell of mismanaging the project and potentially misleading Congress.

Blair has indicated his intention to thoroughly review the project, stating his "grave concern" regarding allegations that Powell was not honest in his testimony. He is expected to request a full review of plans and potentially a site visit to the Federal Reserve building. The NCPC's role involves reviewing site and building plans in accordance with the National Capital Planning Act, and any deviation from approved plans could lead to significant complications for the project.

The controversy over the renovation is unfolding amidst a broader political struggle between the White House and the Federal Reserve, primarily concerning interest rate policy. The appointments to the NCPC are viewed as another avenue for the administration to pressure the independent central bank. The Federal Reserve maintains that its renovation is necessary for modernizing aged infrastructure and consolidating operations, with the project overseen by its Board of Governors.