The young Trump-appointed executive director of the U.S. Semiquincentennial Commission—tasked with planning America’s 250th birthday—has been abruptly terminated following a tribute post to slain conservative activist Charlie Kirk.
Ariel Abergel, just 25 years old and already a rising star in America First circles, was hand-selected by President Donald Trump to help organize patriotic events leading up to the nation’s semiquincentennial in 2026. Having previously worked behind the scenes at Fox & Friends, Abergel quickly gained Trump’s trust and was central to planning the massive military parade in June that coincided with Trump’s 79th birthday—a bold display of American strength that progressives decried as “jingoistic.”
But now, Abergel has been unceremoniously fired by the bipartisan commission overseeing America250. His alleged crime? Posting a tribute to Charlie Kirk, who was tragically assassinated on September 10. Abergel used the official America250 Instagram account to post a simple, heartfelt message: “America is in mourning. God bless Charlie Kirk.”
The post, which was reportedly not authorized by the commission, prompted swift backlash. A statement from America250 accused Abergel of a “security breach” and listed a series of other claims—such as impersonating congressional leadership and undermining commission authority—though Abergel categorically denies all of them.
“These are malicious lies, manufactured to distract from the truth,” Abergel said in a statement following his termination. “I was removed because I honored a conservative patriot who gave everything for this country.”
According to sources close to the situation, Abergel had first requested that the commission release an official statement condemning Kirk’s murder and recognizing his contribution to American discourse. When that request was ignored, he took matters into his own hands—a move that cost him his job.
Abergel’s firing was decided by a commission composed of both elected officials and private citizens, including liberal U.S. Senator Alex Padilla, a known opponent of President Trump. Despite Trump’s influence on the commission’s early appointments, the final decision to remove Abergel came from a so-called “bipartisan” board.
America250’s spokesperson claimed Abergel had committed “serious and repeated breaches of authority and trust,” citing unauthorized actions affecting programming, finances, and communications.
White House spokeswoman Anna Kelly praised Abergel for his “outstanding leadership,” especially during the Army250 parade, which “boldly honored the bravery and strength of our military men and women.”
“We are incredibly proud of all Ari Abergel’s work,” Kelly stated. “The administration will continue working with America250 to ensure the American people get the celebration they deserve.”
