Architect of the Capitol Appointment Procedure: Evolution and Recent Changes

Changes from September 1, 2021 to March 30, 2023

This page shows textual changes in the document between the two versions indicated in the dates above. Textual matter removed in the later version is indicated with ~~red strikethrough~~ and textual matter added in the later version is indicated with blue.

Architect of the Capitol: Evolution and
~~September 1, 2021~~March 30, 2023
Implementation of the Appointment
Ida A. Brudnick
Procedure
Specialist on the Congress Specialist on the Congress

According to its website, the Architect of the Capitol (AOC) is responsible “for the operations According to its website, the Architect of the Capitol (AOC) is responsible “for the operations
and care of more than 18.4 million square feet of facilities, 570 acres of grounds and thousands of and care of more than 18.4 million square feet of facilities, 570 acres of grounds and thousands of

works of art.” works of art.”
Pursuant to the Legislative Branch Appropriations Act, 1990, the Architect is appointed by the President with the advice and Pursuant to the Legislative Branch Appropriations Act, 1990, the Architect is appointed by the President with the advice and
consent of the Senate. Prior to the enactment of this law, the President appointed the Architect for an unlimited term with no consent of the Senate. Prior to the enactment of this law, the President appointed the Architect for an unlimited term with no
formal role for Congress. formal role for Congress.
The act also established a 10-year term for the Architect as well as a bicameral, bipartisan congressional commission to The act also established a 10-year term for the Architect as well as a bicameral, bipartisan congressional commission to
recommend candidates to the President. As subsequently amended in 1995, this law provides for a commission consisting of recommend candidates to the President. As subsequently amended in 1995, this law provides for a commission consisting of
14 Members of Congress, including the Speaker of the House, the President pro tempore of the Senate, the House and Senate 14 Members of Congress, including the Speaker of the House, the President pro tempore of the Senate, the House and Senate
majority and minority leaders, and the chair and ranking minority members of the Committee on House Administration, the majority and minority leaders, and the chair and ranking minority members of the Committee on House Administration, the
Senate Committee on Rules and Administration, and the House and Senate Committees on Appropriations. An Architect may Senate Committee on Rules and Administration, and the House and Senate Committees on Appropriations. An Architect may
be reappointed. be reappointed.
Alan M. Hantman was the first Architect appointed under the revised appointment procedure. He declined to seek Alan M. Hantman was the first Architect appointed under the revised appointment procedure. He declined to seek
reappointment and served from January 30, 1997, to February 4, 2007.reappointment and served from January 30, 1997, to February 4, 2007.
Stephen T. Ayers, who served as Acting Architect of the Capitol following Mr. Hantman’s retirement, was nominated by Stephen T. Ayers, who served as Acting Architect of the Capitol following Mr. Hantman’s retirement, was nominated by
President Obama on February 24, 2010, for a 10-year term. The nomination was referred to the Senate Committee on Rules President Obama on February 24, 2010, for a 10-year term. The nomination was referred to the Senate Committee on Rules
and Administration. The committee held a hearing on April 15, 2010,and Administration. The committee held a hearing on April 15, 2010, during which the chair and ranking member praised during which the chair and ranking member praised
Mr. Ayers for his work as acting Architect and congratulated him on the nomination. Mr. Ayers was confirmed by voice vote Mr. Ayers for his work as acting Architect and congratulated him on the nomination. Mr. Ayers was confirmed by voice vote
in the Senate on May 12, 2010. in the Senate on May 12, 2010.
Upon Mr. Ayers’s retirement on November 23, 2018, Christine Merdon, the Deputy Architect of the Capitol/Chief Operating Upon Mr. Ayers’s retirement on November 23, 2018, Christine Merdon, the Deputy Architect of the Capitol/Chief Operating
Officer, became the Acting Architect of the Capitol. After her resignation in August 2019, Thomas J. Carroll served as Officer, became the Acting Architect of the Capitol. After her resignation in August 2019, Thomas J. Carroll served as
Acting Architect of the Capitol. Acting Architect of the Capitol.
J. Brett Blanton was nominated to be Architect of the Capitol by President J. Brett Blanton was nominated to be Architect of the Capitol by President ~~Donald J.~~ Trump on December 9, 2019.Trump on December 9, 2019. The The
nomination was referred to the Senate Committee on Rules and Administration. The committee held a hearing on December nomination was referred to the Senate Committee on Rules and Administration. The committee held a hearing on December
12, 2019, and Mr. Blanton was confirmed by voice vote in the Senate on December 19, 2019. 12, 2019, and Mr. Blanton was confirmed by voice vote in the Senate on December 19, 2019.
On February 13, 2023, Mr. Blanton was informed by the White House that his appointment as Architect was terminated. The Acting Architect of the Capitol is Chere Rexroat, who is also the Chief Engineer. Since at least the 1950s~~Since at least the 1950s~~ , multiple bills have been introduced that would alter the AOC appointment process and require the , multiple bills have been introduced that would alter the AOC appointment process and require the
appointment to be made by the leadership of Congress rather than the President. Some of the Architect’s current duties, appointment to be made by the leadership of Congress rather than the President. Some of the Architect’s current duties,
however, may potentially raise a question as to whether the Architect is an “Officer of the United States” such that his or her however, may potentially raise a question as to whether the Architect is an “Officer of the United States” such that his or her
appointment must comply with the requirements of the Appointments Clause of the Constitution. appointment must comply with the requirements of the Appointments Clause of the Constitution.
For additional information and a comparison of appointments in the legislative branch, see CRS Report R42072, For additional information and a comparison of appointments in the legislative branch, see CRS Report R42072, Legislative
Branch Agency Appointments: History, Processes, and Recent Actions, by Ida A. Brudnick. , by Ida A. Brudnick.
Congressional Research Service Congressional Research Service

Architect of the Capitol: Evolution and Implementation of the Appointment Procedure

he Office of the Architect of the Capitol (AOC) is responsible “for the operations and care of he Office of the Architect of the Capitol (AOC) is responsible “for the operations and care of
more than 18.4 more than 18.4 ~~mil ion~~million square feet of facilities, 570 acres of grounds and thousands of works square feet of facilities, 570 acres of grounds and thousands of works
T of art.”1 This includes the House and Senate office buildings, the Capitol, the Capitol Visitor T of art.”1 This includes the House and Senate office buildings, the Capitol, the Capitol Visitor
Center, the Library of Congress buildings, the Supreme Court building, the U.S. Botanic Garden, Center, the Library of Congress buildings, the Supreme Court building, the U.S. Botanic Garden,
the Capitol Power Plant, and other facilities. The AOC carries out its bicameral, nonpartisan the Capitol Power Plant, and other facilities. The AOC carries out its bicameral, nonpartisan
responsibilities using both its own staff and contracting authority for architectural, engineering, and responsibilities using both its own staff and contracting authority for architectural, engineering, and
other professional services. other professional services.
Since the enactment of a 1989 law altering the appointment procedure, the position of Architect has Since the enactment of a 1989 law altering the appointment procedure, the position of Architect has
~~been fil ed~~ been filled through appointment by the President, with the advice and consent of the Senate, through appointment by the President, with the advice and consent of the Senate,
following the forwarding of recommendations to the President from a bicameral commission following the forwarding of recommendations to the President from a bicameral commission
consisting of Members of Congress. The Architect is appointed for a 10-year term and may be consisting of Members of Congress. The Architect is appointed for a 10-year term and may be
reappointed. reappointed.
Alan M. Hantman was the first Architect appointed under the revised appointment procedure. He Alan M. Hantman was the first Architect appointed under the revised appointment procedure. He
declined to seek reappointment and served from January 30, 1997, to February 4, 2007.2 The declined to seek reappointment and served from January 30, 1997, to February 4, 2007.2 The
position was vacant for more than three years following his retirement. On February 24, 2010, position was vacant for more than three years following his retirement. On February 24, 2010,
President President ~~Barack~~ Obama nominated Stephen T. Ayers, who had been serving in an acting capacity Obama nominated Stephen T. Ayers, who had been serving in an acting capacity
during the vacancy, to a 10-year term. The nomination was referred to the Senate Committee on during the vacancy, to a 10-year term. The nomination was referred to the Senate Committee on
Rules and Administration, which held a hearing on AprilRules and Administration, which held a hearing on April 15, 2010. The Senators in attendance at 15, 2010. The Senators in attendance at
the hearing praised Mr. Ayers and congratulated him on the nomination. Mr. Ayers was confirmed the hearing praised Mr. Ayers and congratulated him on the nomination. Mr. Ayers was confirmed
by voice vote in the Senate on May 12, 2010. Mr. Ayers announced his intention to retire on by voice vote in the Senate on May 12, 2010. Mr. Ayers announced his intention to retire on
November 23, 2018. November 23, 2018.
Upon Mr. Ayers’s retirement, Christine Merdon, the Deputy Architect of the Capitol/Chief Upon Mr. Ayers’s retirement, Christine Merdon, the Deputy Architect of the Capitol/Chief
Operating Officer, became the Acting Architect of the Capitol. After her resignation in August 2019, Operating Officer, became the Acting Architect of the Capitol. After her resignation in August 2019,
Thomas J. Carroll served as Acting Architect of the Capitol. Thomas J. Carroll served as Acting Architect of the Capitol.
J. Brett Blanton was nominated to be Architect of the Capitol by President J. Brett Blanton was nominated to be Architect of the Capitol by President ~~Donald J.~~ Trump on Trump on
December 9, 2019. The nomination was referred to the Senate Committee on Rules and December 9, 2019. The nomination was referred to the Senate Committee on Rules and
Administration. The committee held a hearing on December 12, 2019, and Mr. Blanton was Administration. The committee held a hearing on December 12, 2019, and Mr. Blanton was
confirmed by voice vote in confirmed by voice vote in the Senate on December 19, 2019. On February 13, 2023, Mr. Blanton was informed by the White House that his appointment as Architect was terminated. The termination followed allegations of misconduct addressed during a hearing of the Committee on House Administration on February 9, 2023,3 and in an inspector general report issued on October 26, 2022.4 Numerous Members of Congress, including leadership of the Senate Committee on Rules and Administration and the Committee on House Administration, had called for his resignation. Although pursuant to 2 U.S.C. §1804, the Deputy Architect of the Capitol is to act as the Architect of the Capitol during a vacancy, at the time of Mr. Blanton’s termination as Architect, the deputy 1 Architect of the Capitol, “About Us,” available at https://www.aoc.gov/defining-aoc. The~~the Senate on December 19, 2019.~~
~~The appointment of the Architect has been a subject of periodic consideration for at least 60 years.~~
~~It is a topic that has received increased attention during periods in which there has been a vacancy~~
~~in the position and periods of congressional dissatisfaction with either the work of the incumbent or~~
~~the involvement of the President in what some Members view as an internal legislative branch~~
~~matter.~~
~~This report discusses the history of the selection of the Architect and contains tables on related~~
~~legislation introduced over the past 60 years.~~
~~For additional information and a comparison of appointments in the legislative branch, see CRS~~
~~Report R42072, Legislative Branch Agency Appointments: History, Processes, and Recent Actions,~~
~~by Ida A. Brudnick.~~

~~1 Architect of the Capitol, “About Us,” available at https://www.aoc.gov/defining-aoc. T he~~ legal responsibilities of the legal responsibilities of the
Architect of the Capitol are dispersed through several titles of the Architect of the Capitol are dispersed through several titles of the United States Code. References to AOC duties. References to AOC duties are are
includedincluded ~~in T it le~~ in Title 2 (Congress), 2 (Congress), ~~T itle~~Title 5 (Government Organization and Employees), 5 (Government Organization and Employees), ~~T itle~~Title 36 (Patriotic Societies and 36 (Patriotic Societies and
Observances), Observances), ~~T itle~~Title 40 (Public Buildings, 40 (Public Buildings, Property, and Works), Property, and Works), ~~T itle~~Title 41 (Public Contracts), and 41 (Public Contracts), and ~~T itle~~Title 42 (Public Health 42 (Public Health
and Welfare). and Welfare).
2 Obtained from https://www.aoc.gov/about-us/history/architects-of-the-capitol/alan-m-hantman-faia. 2 Obtained from https://www.aoc.gov/about-us/history/architects-of-the-capitol/alan-m-hantman-faia.
~~Congressional Research Service~~

1

~~Architect of the Capitol: Evolution and Implementation of the Appointment Procedure~~
3 See https://cha.house.gov/committee-activity/hearings/looking-ahead-series-architect-capitols-strategic-plan-118th-congress. 4 See Architect of the Capitol, Office of Inspector General, “J. Brett Blanton, Architect of the Capitol, Abused His Authority, Misused Government Property and Wasted Taxpayer Money, Among Other Substantiated Violations,” October, 26, 2022, available at https://www.oversight.gov/report/AOC/J-Brett-Blanton-Architect-Capitol-Abused-His-Authority-Misused-Government-Property-and. Congressional Research Service 1 Architect of the Capitol: Evolution and Implementation of the Appointment Procedure position also was vacant. Chere Rexroat, the Chief Engineer, became the Acting Architect of the Capitol. The appointment of the Architect has been a subject of periodic consideration for at least 60 years. It is a topic that has received increased attention during periods in which there has been a vacancy in the position and periods of congressional dissatisfaction with either the work of the incumbent or the involvement of the President in what some Members view as an internal legislative branch matter. This report discusses the history of the selection of the Architect and contains tables on related legislation introduced over the past 60 years. For additional information and a comparison of appointments in the legislative branch, see CRS Report R42072, Legislative Branch Agency Appointments: History, Processes, and Recent Actions, by Ida A. Brudnick.
Current Appointment Process
The Architect is “appointed by the President by and with the advice and consent of the Senate for a The Architect is “appointed by the President by and with the advice and consent of the Senate for a
term of 10 years.”term of 10 years.”35 This procedure was established by the Legislative Branch Appropriations Act, This procedure was established by the Legislative Branch Appropriations Act,
1990, which also created a congressional commission responsible for recommending at least three 1990, which also created a congressional commission responsible for recommending at least three
individualsindividuals to the President for the position of Architect of the Capitol.to the President for the position of Architect of the Capitol.46 The commission The commission ~~original y~~originally
consisted of 10 Members (including the Speaker of the House of Representatives, the President pro consisted of 10 Members (including the Speaker of the House of Representatives, the President pro
tempore of the Senate, the majority and minority leaders of the House of Representatives and the tempore of the Senate, the majority and minority leaders of the House of Representatives and the
Senate, and the chairs and the ranking minority members of the Committee on House Senate, and the chairs and the ranking minority members of the Committee on House
Administration of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Rules and Administration of Administration of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Rules and Administration of
the Senate).the Senate).
In considering the FY1990 Legislative In considering the FY1990 Legislative Branch Appropriations Act, the Senate Appropriations Branch Appropriations Act, the Senate Appropriations
Committee proposed revising the process by having the President nominate the Architect for a 10-Committee proposed revising the process by having the President nominate the Architect for a 10-
year term, subject to the advice and consent of the Senate. Previously, the position did not require year term, subject to the advice and consent of the Senate. Previously, the position did not require
Senate confirmation. In the report accompanying H.R. 3014, the Senate Appropriations Committee Senate confirmation. In the report accompanying H.R. 3014, the Senate Appropriations Committee
stated the following: stated the following:
These changes will conform the process of the appointment of the Architect more closely to These changes will conform the process of the appointment of the Architect more closely to
thethe ~~appointment procedure followed for other officers of similar stature. The~~ appointment procedure followed for other officers of similar stature. The Committee Committee
believes this will accord proper recognition to the importance of the functions of this office believes this will accord proper recognition to the importance of the functions of this office
and help to promote greater accountability in their performance.and help to promote greater accountability in their performance.57
During the brief Senate debate on the provision, Senator Harry Reid, then-chairman of the During the brief Senate debate on the provision, Senator Harry Reid, then-chairman of the
LegislativeLegislative Branch Appropriations Subcommittee, declared that the committee’s amendment “Branch Appropriations Subcommittee, declared that the committee’s amendment “~~bet er~~
better reflects the institutional status of the Architect as an officer of the legislative branch and should reflects the institutional status of the Architect as an officer of the legislative branch and should
make the lines of accountability in the performance of his duties much less ambiguous.”make the lines of accountability in the performance of his duties much less ambiguous.”68 Senator Senator
Don Nickles, then-ranking member of the subcommittee, noted the fixed term of the Architect Don Nickles, then-ranking member of the subcommittee, noted the fixed term of the Architect
~~would be similar to that of the Comptroller General, who is appointed for a single 15-year term.7~~
~~The legislative history does not appear to indicate why the shorter term was chosen for the~~
~~Architect.~~
~~In conference, House and Senate negotiators agreed to a compromise that reflected the absence in~~
~~the Senate proposal of any formal role for the House in the selection of a future Architect. The~~
~~compromise expanded the Senate’s language by providing for a bicameral congressional advisory~~
~~commission. The conference report does not provide additional information on this decision or any~~
~~other options considered.8 The compromise was accepted in both houses without debate and the~~
~~measure was signed into law on November 21, 1989.9~~

~~3 2 U.S.C. 1801(a)(1).~~
4 5 2 U.S.C. 1801(a)(1). 6 P.L. 101-163, November 21, 1989, 103 Stat P.L. 101-163, November 21, 1989, 103 Stat . 1068, 2 U.S.C. 1801. . 1068, 2 U.S.C. 1801.
57 U.S. U.S. Congress, Senate Committee on Appropriations, Congress, Senate Committee on Appropriations, Legislative Branch Appropriations, 1990, report to accompany , report to accompany
H.R. 3014, 101st Cong., 1st sess.,H.R. 3014, 101st Cong., 1st sess., S.Rept. 101-106 (Washington: GPO, 1989), pp. 37S.Rept. 101-106 (Washington: GPO, 1989), pp. 37 -38. -38.
68 Sen. Harry Reid, Sen. Harry Reid, “Legislative Branch Appropriations, 1990,” remarks in“Legislative Branch Appropriations, 1990,” remarks in the Senate, Congressional Record, vol. 135, September 6, 1989, p. 19591. Congressional Research Service 2 Architect of the Capitol: Evolution and Implementation of the Appointment Procedure would be similar to that of the Comptroller General, who is appointed for a single 15-year term.9 The legislative history does not appear to indicate why the shorter term was chosen for the Architect. In conference, House and Senate negotiators agreed to a compromise that reflected the absence in the Senate proposal of any formal role for the House in the selection of a future Architect. The compromise expanded the Senate’s language by providing for a bicameral congressional advisory commission. The conference report does not provide additional information on this decision or any other options considered.10 The compromise was accepted in both houses without debate and the measure was signed into law on November 21, 1989.11 ~~the Senate, Congressional Record, vol. 135,~~
~~September 6, 1989, p. 19591.~~
~~7 Sen. Don Nickles, “ Legislative Branch Appropriations, 1990,” remarks in the Senate, Congressional Record, vol. 135,~~
~~September 6, 1989, p. 19593.~~
~~8 U.S. Congress,~~ ~~Making Appropriations for the Legislative Branch for the Fiscal Year Ending September 30, 1990, and~~
~~for other purposes,~~ ~~report to accompany H.R. 3014, H.Rept. 101-254 (Washington, GPO: 1989), p. 19.~~
~~9 “Conference Report on H.R. 3014, Legislative Branch Appropriations Act, 1990,” Vote in the House,~~ ~~Congressional~~
~~Record, vol. 135, September 28, 1989, pp. 22270 -22271; “ Legislative Branch Appropriations, 1990 – Conference~~
~~Congressional Research Service~~

2

~~link to page 15~~ ~~Architect of the Capitol: Evolution and Implementation of the Appointment Procedure~~

The commission was expanded in 1995 to include the chairs and ranking minority members of the The commission was expanded in 1995 to include the chairs and ranking minority members of the
House and Senate Appropriations Committees.House and Senate Appropriations Committees.1012
A commission process is also used for A commission process is also used for ~~fil ing~~filling vacancies in the position of Comptroller General, who vacancies in the position of Comptroller General, who
leads the Government Accountability Office (GAO).leads the Government Accountability Office (GAO).1113 The commission procedure for GAO, which The commission procedure for GAO, which
also also ~~cal s~~calls for a recommendation to the President of at least three individuals, was established in for a recommendation to the President of at least three individuals, was established in
1980. 1980.
Increasing Congressional Involvement in the
Architect Appointment: Discussion Prior to the 1989
Act
Prior to 1989, the Architect was selected by the President for an unlimited term without any formal Prior to 1989, the Architect was selected by the President for an unlimited term without any formal
involvement of Congress. Paul Rundquist, congressional scholar and former specialist at the involvement of Congress. Paul Rundquist, congressional scholar and former specialist at the
Congressional Research Service, noted in testimony before the Senate Rules and Administration Congressional Research Service, noted in testimony before the Senate Rules and Administration
Committee in 1996 that “the fact that the Architect of the Capitol was a congressional agent Committee in 1996 that “the fact that the Architect of the Capitol was a congressional agent
nominated by the President without confirmation by the Senate does not seem to have troubled nominated by the President without confirmation by the Senate does not seem to have troubled
Congress until recent years.”Congress until recent years.”12
~~Bil s related to the qualifications and appointment of the Architect have been periodical y~~
~~introduced since at least the 1950s; however, little action was taken on these proposals until the~~
~~1980s.~~
Appendix A provides information on these bil s.
~~Bil s proposing a new appointment process have taken various approaches. Two changes ultimately~~
~~enacted include requiring the advice and consent of the Senate and establishing a commission to~~
~~recommend names to the President.~~
~~Other bil s proposed making the Architect a congressional appointee. These included proposals to~~
~~make the Architect subject to a joint appointment by the Speaker and President pro tempore;~~
~~alternating appointment between the Speaker and President pro tempore; and a commission of~~
~~Members recommending candidates to the Speaker and President pro tempore, with ratification by~~
~~the chambers.~~

14 9 Sen. Don Nickles, “Legislative Branch Appropriations, 1990,” remarks in the Senate, Congressional Record, vol. 135, September 6, 1989, p. 19593. 10 U.S. Congress, Making Appropriations for the Legislative Branch for the Fiscal Year Ending September 30, 1990, and for other purposes, report to accompany H.R. 3014, H.Rept. 101-254 (Washington, GPO: 1989), p. 19. 11 “Conference Report on H.R. 3014, Legislative Branch Appropriations Act, 1990,” Vote in the House, Congressional Record, vol. 135, September 28, 1989, pp. 22270-22271; “Legislative Branch Appropriations, 1990 – Conference Report,” Vote in the Senate, Report,” Vote in the Senate, Congressional Record, vol. 135, November 9, 1989, p. 28052; and P.L. 101-163, 103 Stat. , vol. 135, November 9, 1989, p. 28052; and P.L. 101-163, 103 Stat.
1068, 2 U.S.C.1068, 2 U.S.C. 1801. 1801.
1012 P.L. 104-19, July 27, 1995, 109 Stat. 220. P.L. 104-19, July 27, 1995, 109 Stat. 220. ~~T he~~The official record provides little additional information on the changes official record provides little additional information on the changes
consideredconsidered in 1995. Additional membership on the commission wasin 1995. Additional membership on the commission was first agreed to in the conference report on H.R. 1158, first agreed to in the conference report on H.R. 1158,
the Second Supplemental Appropriations and Rescissions Act, 1995, which wasthe Second Supplemental Appropriations and Rescissions Act, 1995, which was vetoed by President Clinton on June 7, vetoed by President Clinton on June 7,
1995. 1995. ~~T he~~The joint explanatory statement accompanying the conference committee report did not indicate why the provision joint explanatory statement accompanying the conference committee report did not indicate why the provision
waswas ~~added. Subsequently~~ added. Subsequently in the same Congress,in the same Congress, the provision was includedthe provision was included in the original version of H.R. 1944, the in the original version of H.R. 1944, the
Emergency Supplemental Appropriations for Additional Disaster Assistance, for Anti-terrorism Initiatives, for Assistance Emergency Supplemental Appropriations for Additional Disaster Assistance, for Anti-terrorism Initiatives, for Assistance
in the Recovery from the in the Recovery from the ~~T ragedy~~Tragedy that Occurred at Oklahoma City, and Rescissions that Occurred at Oklahoma City, and Rescissions Act, 1995, which wasAct, 1995, which was introduced on introduced on
June 28. It passedJune 28. It passed the House the next day following the adoption of one amendment agreed to by voice vote and passed the House the next day following the adoption of one amendment agreed to by voice vote and passed
the Senate without amendment on July 21. It became P.L. 104-19 on July 27, 1995. the Senate without amendment on July 21. It became P.L. 104-19 on July 27, 1995.
1113 31 U.S.C. 31 U.S.C. 703. 703.
1214 U.S. U.S. Congress, Senate RulesCongress, Senate Rules and Administration Committee, and Administration Committee, ~~104 th~~104th Cong., 2nd sess., February 29, 1996 (unpublished). Cong., 2nd sess., February 29, 1996 (unpublished).
Dr. RundquistDr. Rundquist gave testimony before the Senate Rules and Administration Committee during a reviewgave testimony before the Senate Rules and Administration Committee during a review of the operations of Congressional Research Service 3 link to page 16 Architect of the Capitol: Evolution and Implementation of the Appointment Procedure Bills related to the qualifications and appointment of the Architect have been periodically introduced since at least the 1950s; however, little action was taken on these proposals until the 1980s. Appendix A provides information on these bills. Bills proposing a new appointment process have taken various approaches. Two changes ultimately enacted include requiring the advice and consent of the Senate and establishing a commission to recommend names to the President. Other bills proposed making the Architect a congressional appointee. These included proposals to make the Architect subject to a joint appointment by the Speaker and President pro tempore; alternating appointment between the Speaker and President pro tempore; and a commission of Members recommending candidates to the Speaker and President pro tempore, with ratification by the chambers. The introduced bills~~of the operations of~~
~~various Senate officers and a study of criteria for the selection of a new AOC.~~
~~Congressional Research Service~~

3

~~Architect of the Capitol: Evolution and Implementation of the Appointment Procedure~~

~~The introduced bil s~~ also varyingly addressed the term of office, eligibility for reappointment, also varyingly addressed the term of office, eligibility for reappointment,
procedure for removal, and procedures following early vacancies. procedure for removal, and procedures following early vacancies.
Whereas some of these Whereas some of these ~~bil s~~bills focused only on the Architect, many of the focused only on the Architect, many of the ~~bil s~~bills introduced from the introduced from the
early 1970s forward also addressed the appointment of the other presidential appointees in the early 1970s forward also addressed the appointment of the other presidential appointees in the
legislativelegislative branch, including the Librarian of Congress, the Comptroller General and the Deputy branch, including the Librarian of Congress, the Comptroller General and the Deputy
Comptroller,Comptroller,1315 and the and the ~~Public Printer.~~
Director of the Government Publishing Office.16 Questions have previously been raised about the authority of Congress to vest itself, or more Questions have previously been raised about the authority of Congress to vest itself, or more
~~specifical y~~specifically congressional leadership, with the power to appoint the Architect. These questions congressional leadership, with the power to appoint the Architect. These questions
~~general y~~ generally relate to whether the AOC’s nonlegislative functions—including facility responsibilities relate to whether the AOC’s nonlegislative functions—including facility responsibilities
for the Supreme Court and the Thurgood for the Supreme Court and the Thurgood ~~Marshal~~ Marshall Federal Judiciary BuildingFederal Judiciary Building and membership on and membership on
several nonlegislativeseveral nonlegislative governing or advisory governing or advisory ~~bodies14~~bodies17—make the Architect an “Officer of the —make the Architect an “Officer of the
United States” such that his or her appointment cannot be made by Congress consistent with the United States” such that his or her appointment cannot be made by Congress consistent with the
requirements of the Appointments Clause (Clause) of the Constitution.requirements of the Appointments Clause (Clause) of the Constitution.1518 Under the Clause, “officers Under the Clause, “officers
of the United States,” defined primarily as officials that exercise “significant authority” in a of the United States,” defined primarily as officials that exercise “significant authority” in a
“continuing” office, must either be appointed by the President with the advice and consent of the “continuing” office, must either be appointed by the President with the advice and consent of the
Senate, or, in the case of “inferior officers,” by the “President alone, [] the Courts of Law, or [] the Senate, or, in the case of “inferior officers,” by the “President alone, [] the Courts of Law, or [] the
Heads of Departments.”Heads of Departments.”16
19 Whether the functions and responsibilities exercised by a government official rise to the level of Whether the functions and responsibilities exercised by a government official rise to the level of
“significant authority” is not easily determined.“significant authority” is not easily determined.1720 Consistent with this ambiguity, it does not appear various Senate officers and a study of criteria for the selection of a new AOC. 15 The Deputy Comptroller General position has been vacant since 1980. 16 This position was previously known as the Public Printer when the agency was known as the Government Printing Office (changes to both names were made pursuant to P.L. 113-235, div. H, December 16, 2014, 128 Stat. 2537, 2538). 17 These bodies include ~~Consistent with this ambiguity, it does not appear~~
~~that Congress has adopted a uniform interpretation of the Clause’s applicability to the Architect.18~~
~~Nonetheless, the executive branch has previously concluded that “functions simply involving the~~
~~management of governmental property” are general y not considered significant for purposes of the~~
~~Clause.19 Thus, to the extent that concerns over congressional appointment of the Architect relate to~~
~~his management of nonlegislative property, it would appear that such functions may not, on their~~
~~own, prevent Congress from choosing to retain the power of appointment for itself.~~

~~13 T he Deputy Comptroller General position has been vacant since 1980.~~
~~14 T hese bodies include~~ the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation, the District of Columbia Zoning Commission, the the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation, the District of Columbia Zoning Commission, the
National Capital Memorial Commission, and the Art Advisory Committee to the Washington Metropolitan Area National Capital Memorial Commission, and the Art Advisory Committee to the Washington Metropolitan Area ~~T ransit~~Transit
Authority. Authority.
1518 U.S. U.S. Constitution. Art. II, § 2, cl. 2 (stating that the President “Constitution. Art. II, § 2, cl. 2 (stating that the President “ shall nominate, and by and with the Advice and Consent shall nominate, and by and with the Advice and Consent
of the Senate, shall appoint Ambassadors, other public Ministers and Consuls,of the Senate, shall appoint Ambassadors, other public Ministers and Consuls, ~~Judges~~ Judges of the supreme Court, and all other of the supreme Court, and all other
Officers of the United States, whoseOfficers of the United States, whose Appointments are not herein otherwise provided for, and whichAppointments are not herein otherwise provided for, and which shall be established shall be established
by Law:by Law: but the Congress may by Law vest the Appointment of such inferior Officers, as theybut the Congress may by Law vest the Appointment of such inferior Officers, as they think proper, in the think proper, in the
President alone, in the Courts of Law, or in the HeadsPresident alone, in the Courts of Law, or in the Heads of Departments”).of Departments”).
16 19 Id. Buckley v. Valeo,. Buckley v. Valeo, 424 U.S. 1, 126 (1976). In 424 U.S. 1, 126 (1976). In Buckley, the Supreme Court held that functions undertaken “merely in , the Supreme Court held that functions undertaken “merely in
aidaid of congressional authority” may be performed by nonofficers appointed by Congress. Id. at 139-41. of congressional authority” may be performed by nonofficers appointed by Congress. Id. at 139-41.
1720 Lucia v. SEC, Lucia v. SEC, 585 U.S. __, 6 (2018) (noting that the “significant authority standard” is “no doubt framed in general 585 U.S. __, 6 (2018) (noting that the “significant authority standard” is “no doubt framed in general
terms”). terms”).
~~18 See Sen. Paul Douglas, “T he Architect of the Capitol Should be a Qualified Architect and Should be Appointed by the~~
~~Congress,” remarks in the House, Congressional Record, vol. 111, April 1, 1965, p. 6523 (stating that “ there “may be~~
~~constitutional problems with respect to congressional appointmen t of an officer of the Congress”); Rep. Jack Brooks,~~
~~“T oward Restoring Power and Prestige of Congress,” remarks in the House, Congressional Record, vol. 121, July 14,~~
~~1975, pp. 22668-22669 (“ It is hard for me to understand how earlier Congresses could decide to leave … appointme nt [of~~
~~officers of Congress] to the President…. T he doctrine of separation of powers is basic to our government and Congress~~
~~contributes to the weakening that system when it permits the President to exercise authority in the legislative domain .”).~~
~~19 See Officers of the United States Within the Meaning of the Appointments Clause, April 16, 2007, Opinions of the~~
~~Office of Legal Counsel, pp. 89-90.~~
~~Congressional Research Service~~

4

~~link to page 9 link to page 9~~ ~~Architect of the Capitol: Evolution and Implementation of the Appointment Procedure~~

Congressional Research Service 4 link to page 9 Architect of the Capitol: Evolution and Implementation of the Appointment Procedure that Congress has adopted a uniform interpretation of the Clause’s applicability to the Architect.21 Nonetheless, the executive branch has previously concluded that “functions simply involving the management of governmental property” are generally not considered significant for purposes of the Clause.22 Thus, to the extent that concerns over congressional appointment of the Architect relate to his management of nonlegislative property, it would appear that such functions may not, on their own, prevent Congress from choosing to retain the power of appointment for itself. Legislation Introduced Since the 1989 Act to Change
the Appointment Process
Since the enactment of the new procedure in 1989, a few Since the enactment of the new procedure in 1989, a few ~~bil s~~bills have been introduced to change the have been introduced to change the
process of appointing the Architect. These proposals would shift the Architect appointment process of appointing the Architect. These proposals would shift the Architect appointment
responsibility from the President to specified Members of Congress. As with earlier responsibility from the President to specified Members of Congress. As with earlier ~~bil s~~bills, ,
statements in the statements in the Congressional Record by by ~~bil~~ bill sponsorssponsors have cited an interest in using the have cited an interest in using the
appointment process to protect the prerogatives of, and ensure accountability to, the legislative appointment process to protect the prerogatives of, and ensure accountability to, the legislative
branch. Some discussions also have addressed the appropriate role of the House of Representatives, branch. Some discussions also have addressed the appropriate role of the House of Representatives,
which does not play a formal role in the confirmation of presidential nominees. which does not play a formal role in the confirmation of presidential nominees.
The only change enacted since 1989, as stated above, occurred in 1995, when the commission The only change enacted since 1989, as stated above, occurred in 1995, when the commission
charged with recommending names to the President expanded to include the chairs and ranking charged with recommending names to the President expanded to include the chairs and ranking
minority members of the House and Senate Appropriations Committees.minority members of the House and Senate Appropriations Committees.20
23 Table 1 compares the Members involved in appointment under current law and compares the Members involved in appointment under current law and ~~bil s~~bills introduced introduced
since the 1989 act.since the 1989 act.
109th Congress (2005-2006)
During the 109th Congress, one During the 109th Congress, one ~~bil~~ bill (H.R. 4446) was introduced to establish a uniform appointment (H.R. 4446) was introduced to establish a uniform appointment
process and 10-year term of service for the Architect, the process and 10-year term of service for the Architect, the ~~Comptrol er~~Comptroller General, and the Librarian of General, and the Librarian of
Congress. This proposal provided for joint appointment by four Members, including the Speaker, Congress. This proposal provided for joint appointment by four Members, including the Speaker,
the majority leader of the Senate, and the minority leaders of the House of Representatives and the majority leader of the Senate, and the minority leaders of the House of Representatives and
Senate. No further action was taken. Senate. No further action was taken.
110th Congress (2007-2008)
A A ~~bil~~ bill (H.R. 6656), which would provide for a 12-member congressional appointing panel, was (H.R. 6656), which would provide for a 12-member congressional appointing panel, was
introduced in the 110th Congress and referred to two committees, although no further action was introduced in the 110th Congress and referred to two committees, although no further action was
~~taken.~~taken. 21 See Sen. Paul Douglas, “The Architect of the Capitol Should be a Qualified Architect and Should be Appointed by the Congress,” remarks in the House, Congressional Record, vol. 111, April 1, 1965, p. 6523 (stating that “there “may be constitutional problems with respect to congressional appointment of an officer of the Congress”); Rep. Jack Brooks, “Toward Restoring Power and Prestige of Congress,” remarks in the House, Congressional Record, vol. 121, July 14, 1975, pp. 22668-22669 (“It is hard for me to understand how earlier Congresses could decide to leave … appointment [of officers of Congress] to the President…. The doctrine of separation of powers is basic to our government and Congress contributes to the weakening that system when it permits the President to exercise authority in the legislative domain.”). 22 See Officers of the United States Within the Meaning of the Appointments Clause, April 16, 2007, Opinions of the Office of Legal Counsel, pp. 89-90. 23 P.L. 104-19, July 27, 1995, 109 Stat. 220. Congressional Research Service 5 link to page 9 Architect of the Capitol: Evolution and Implementation of the Appointment Procedure
111th Congress (2009-2010)
In the 111th Congress, two measures (H.R. 2185 and H.R. 2843) were introduced to remove the In the 111th Congress, two measures (H.R. 2185 and H.R. 2843) were introduced to remove the
President from the Architect appointment process and shift it to the congressional leaders and chairs President from the Architect appointment process and shift it to the congressional leaders and chairs
and ranking members of specific congressional committees. Under both measures, the Architect and ranking members of specific congressional committees. Under both measures, the Architect
would would ~~stil~~ still be appointed for a 10-year term. be appointed for a 10-year term.
Under H.R. 2185, which was introduced on April 30, 2009, and referred to the Committee on House Under H.R. 2185, which was introduced on April 30, 2009, and referred to the Committee on House
AdministrationAdministration and Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, the Architect would be and Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, the Architect would be
appointed by a 12-member congressional appointing panel. No further action was taken during the appointed by a 12-member congressional appointing panel. No further action was taken during the
111th Congress.111th Congress.
Under H.R. 2843, as reported, the Architect would be appointed jointly by the same 14-member Under H.R. 2843, as reported, the Architect would be appointed jointly by the same 14-member
panel that currently is responsible for recommending candidates to the President. This panel that currently is responsible for recommending candidates to the President. This ~~bil~~ bill was was
reported by the Committee on House Administration (H.Rept. 111-372), and the Committee on reported by the Committee on House Administration (H.Rept. 111-372), and the Committee on
Transportation and Infrastructure was discharged from further consideration of the Transportation and Infrastructure was discharged from further consideration of the ~~bil~~ bill. The House . The House
agreed to the agreed to the ~~bil ,~~ bill, as amended to include 18 rather than 14 Members of Congress (seas amended to include 18 rather than 14 Members of Congress (see Table 1)), by ~~, by~~

~~20 P.L. 104-19, July 27, 1995, 109 Stat. 220.~~
~~Congressional Research Service~~

5

~~Architect of the Capitol: Evolution and Implementation of the Appointment Procedure~~

voice vote. It was received in the Senate and referred to the Committee on Rules and voice vote. It was received in the Senate and referred to the Committee on Rules and
Administration, and no further action was taken during the 111th Congress.Administration, and no further action was taken during the 111th Congress.
Table 1. Members Included in the Commission Recommending Individuals as
Architect Under Current Law and in Legislation Subsequently Introduced
H.R. 2843,
H.R. 2843,
111th Cong.,
Current Law:
H.R. 4446,
H.R. 6656,
H.R. 2185,
111th Cong.,
as Passed by

2 U.S.C. 1801
109th Cong.
110th Cong.
111th Cong.
as reported
the House
Speaker Speaker
1 1
1 1
1 1
1 1
1 1
1 1
President pro Tempore President pro Tempore
1 1

1 1
1 1
House majority House majority Leader Leader
1 1

1 1
1 1
Senate Majority Leader Senate Majority Leader
1 1
1 1
1 1
1 1
1 1
1 1
House Minority Leader House Minority Leader
1 1
1 1
1 1
1 1
1 1
1 1
Senate Minority Leader Senate Minority Leader
1 1
1 1
1 1
1 1
1 1
1 1
Chair and Ranking Chair and Ranking
2 2

2 2
2 2
2 2
2 2
Member Committee Member Committee on on
House Administration House Administration
Chair and Ranking Chair and Ranking
2 2

2 2
2 2
2 2
2 2
Member Committee Member Committee on on
Senate Rules and Senate Rules and
Administration Administration
Chair and Ranking Chair and Ranking
2 2

2 2
2 2
2 2
2 2
Member Committee Member Committee on on
House Appropriations House Appropriations
Chair and Ranking Chair and Ranking
2 2

2 2
2 2
2 2
2 2
Member Committee Member Committee on on
Senate Appropriations Senate Appropriations
Chair and Ranking Chair and Ranking

2 2
Member Committee Member Committee on on
House CommitteeHouse Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure Congressional Research Service 6 Architect of the Capitol: Evolution and Implementation of the Appointment Procedure H.R. 2843, H.R. 2843, 111th Cong., Current Law: H.R. 4446, H.R. 6656, H.R. 2185, 111th Cong., as Passed by 2 U.S.C. 1801 109th Cong. 110th Cong. 111th Cong. as reported the House on
~~Transportation and~~
~~Infrastructure~~
A Member of the Senate A Member of the Senate

2 2
to be designated by the to be designated by the
majoritymajority leader of the leader of the
Senate, and a Member of Senate, and a Member of
the Senate to be the Senate to be
designated by the designated by the
minorityminority leader of the leader of the
Senate Senate
Total Number of
14
4
12
12
14
18
Members of Congress
Source: CRS survey of legislation. CRS survey of legislation.
~~Congressional Research Service~~

6

~~Architect of the Capitol: Evolution and Implementation of the Appointment Procedure~~

~~Options for Removal Under Proposed Congressional~~
~~Appointment~~
Options for Removal The LegislativeThe Legislative Branch Appropriations Act, 1990, which established the current appointment Branch Appropriations Act, 1990, which established the current appointment
procedure, did not address the possibility of the removal of an Architect. The Architect, then, procedure, did not address the possibility of the removal of an Architect. The Architect, then,
presumably serves at the pleasure of the President.presumably serves at the pleasure of the President.2124
A few of the A few of the ~~bil s~~bills introduced over the last 50 years providing for appointment by Members of introduced over the last 50 years providing for appointment by Members of
Congress have contained provisions Congress have contained provisions ~~specifical y~~specifically addressing removal. H.R. 8616 (94th Congress) addressing removal. H.R. 8616 (94th Congress)
proposed that the Architect could be removed by concurrent resolution. S. 2205 (94th Congress) proposed that the Architect could be removed by concurrent resolution. S. 2205 (94th Congress)
provided for removal by resolution in either the House or Senate. provided for removal by resolution in either the House or Senate.
Statutes related to the selection of two legislative branch agency heads also address removal. Like Statutes related to the selection of two legislative branch agency heads also address removal. Like
the Architect of the Capitol, the Comptroller General (CG) is appointed by the President for a fixed the Architect of the Capitol, the Comptroller General (CG) is appointed by the President for a fixed
term of office (for the CG, this term is 15 years) with the advice and consent of the Senate. The CG term of office (for the CG, this term is 15 years) with the advice and consent of the Senate. The CG
may be removed only by “(A) impeachment; or (B) joint resolution of Congress, after notice and an may be removed only by “(A) impeachment; or (B) joint resolution of Congress, after notice and an
opportunity for a hearing” and only by reason of permanent disability; inefficiency; neglect of duty; opportunity for a hearing” and only by reason of permanent disability; inefficiency; neglect of duty;
malfeasance; or a felony or conduct involving moral turpitude.malfeasance; or a felony or conduct involving moral turpitude.2225 The Director of the Congressional The Director of the Congressional
Budget Office, who is appointed by the Speaker of the House of Representatives and the President Budget Office, who is appointed by the Speaker of the House of Representatives and the President
pro tempore of the Senate after considering recommendations received from the Committees on the pro tempore of the Senate after considering recommendations received from the Committees on the
Budget of the House and the Senate, “may be removed by either House by resolution.”Budget of the House and the Senate, “may be removed by either House by resolution.”23
~~Filling the First Vacancy After the 1989 Act: 1995-1997~~
~~Following the decision of George White, who served as Architect from January 27, 1971, until~~
~~November 21, 1995, not to seek reappointment under the new process, Alan Hantman was~~
~~nominated under the new procedure to a 10-year term by President Clinton on January 6, 1997.24~~
~~Following a hearing on January 28, 1997, the Senate Committee on Rules and Administration~~
~~favorably reported his nomination. Mr. Hantman was confirmed by the Senate by voice vote on~~
~~January 30, 1997.25 Declining to seek reappointment, Mr. Hantman retired on February 4, 2007, and~~
~~Stephen T. Ayers, then-Deputy Architect, began service as the Acting Architect of the Capitol.26~~

2126 Bills Introduced Regarding Removal (117th and 118th Congresses) Following allegations of misconduct by the then-Architect, bills were introduced to establish procedures for removal by Congress, either by impeachment or joint resolution. On December 20, 2022, S. 5319 was introduced in the Senate. It was referred to the Committee on Rules and Administration, but no further action was taken during the 117th Congress. 24 It has long been recognized that “the power of removal [is] incident to the power of appointment.” It has long been recognized that “the power of removal [is] incident to the power of appointment.” Ex Parte Hennen, 38 , 38
U.S.U.S. (13 Pet.) 230, 259 (1839). (13 Pet.) 230, 259 (1839).
22 25 31 U.S.C. 31 U.S.C. 703. 703.
2326 2 U.S.C. 2 U.S.C. 601. For additional information, see CRS601. For additional information, see CRS Report RL31880, Report RL31880, Congressional Budget Office: Appointment and
Tenure of the Director and Deputy Director,, by Megan S.by Megan S. ~~Lynch.~~
~~24 T he 1989 act required Mr. White to be reappointed under the new procedure no later than the sixth anniversary of the~~
~~enactment of the law if he chose to remain in office. (P.L. 101-163, sec. 319(b), November 21, 1989, 103 Stat. 1068).~~
~~25 “Executive Calendar,” remarks in the Senate, Congressional Record, vol. 143, January 30, 1997, pp. 1304-1307, 1312.~~
~~From the retirement of Mr. White until the confirmation of Mr. Hantman, William L. Ensign served as Acting~~ Lynch. Congressional Research Service 7 Architect of the Capitol: Evolution and Implementation of the Appointment Procedure A similar bill, S. 97 (118th Congress), was introduced on January 26, 2023, and referred to the Committee on Rules and Administration. Filling the First Vacancy After the 1989 Act: 1995-1997 Following the decision of George White, who served as Architect from January 27, 1971, until November 21, 1995, not to seek reappointment under the new process, Alan Hantman was nominated under the new procedure to a 10-year term by President Clinton on January 6, 1997.27 Following a hearing on January 28, 1997, the Senate Committee on Rules and Administration favorably reported his nomination. Mr. Hantman was confirmed by the Senate by voice vote on January 30, 1997.28 Declining to seek reappointment, Mr. Hantman retired on February 4, 2007, and Stephen T. Ayers, then-Deputy Architect, began service as the Acting Architect of the Capitol.29 ~~Architect~~
~~of the Capitol.~~
~~26According to the biography provided by the AOC, Mr. Ayers “ joined the Architect of the Capitol as an Assistant~~
~~Superintendent for the Senate Office Buildings. He served in several capacities over the next decade, including Deputy~~
~~Superintendent for the Senate Office Buildings, Superintendent of the Library Buildings and Grounds, Acting Deputy~~
~~Architect/Chief Operating Officer and Deputy Architect/Chief Operating Officer ” (https://www.aoc.gov/architect -of-the-~~
~~capitol/stephen-t-ayers-faia-ccm-leed-ap). Pursuant to 2 U.S.C. 1804, the Deputy Architect “shall act as Architect of the~~
~~Capitol during the absence or disability of that official or whenever there is no Architect.”~~
~~Congressional Research Service~~

7

~~Architect of the Capitol: Evolution and Implementation of the Appointment Procedure~~

Filling the Second Vacancy: 2007-2010
As discussed above, Mr. Ayers was confirmed and appointed as Architect three years later, in 2010. As discussed above, Mr. Ayers was confirmed and appointed as Architect three years later, in 2010.
Between the announcement that Mr. Hantman would retire and the nomination and confirmation of Between the announcement that Mr. Hantman would retire and the nomination and confirmation of
Mr. Ayers, few congressional announcements were made regarding the status of the Architect Mr. Ayers, few congressional announcements were made regarding the status of the Architect
vacancy and the submission of the recommendations to the President. vacancy and the submission of the recommendations to the President.
During a hearing on the FY2008 appropriations request on April 24, 2007, before the House During a hearing on the FY2008 appropriations request on April 24, 2007, before the House
LegislativeLegislative Branch Appropriations Subcommittee, Acting Architect Stephen Ayers responded to a Branch Appropriations Subcommittee, Acting Architect Stephen Ayers responded to a
question about the status from ranking member Representative Zach Wamp: question about the status from ranking member Representative Zach Wamp:
I did speak to the [Senate] Rules Committee about the selection process…. They have told I did speak to the [Senate] Rules Committee about the selection process…. They have told
me that their executive recruiter is currently interviewing potential candidates, and I surmise me that their executive recruiter is currently interviewing potential candidates, and I surmise
that they would give them that list of potential candidates in a month or two. So that is about that they would give them that list of potential candidates in a month or two. So that is about
the extent of my knowledge of that.the extent of my knowledge of that.2730
Although the list of names was reportedly transmitted to President George W. Bush in summer Although the list of names was reportedly transmitted to President George W. Bush in summer
2007, the identity of the candidates was not publicly released by the commission.2007, the identity of the candidates was not publicly released by the commission.2831
In its activities report on the 110th Congress (2007-2008), the Committee on House Administration In its activities report on the 110th Congress (2007-2008), the Committee on House Administration
summarized congressional actions and indicated concern about the current process: summarized congressional actions and indicated concern about the current process:
Although the commission forwarded three candidates [to the President], complex Although the commission forwarded three candidates [to the President], complex
circumstances prevented final selection and confirmation of the Architect. The Committee circumstances prevented final selection and confirmation of the Architect. The Committee
~~anticipates completion of the appointment process in the 111th Congress, but in the meantime~~
~~is reviewing whether the process is simply broken and requires new legislation.29~~
~~The three-year period following the retirement of the former Architect was also noted in the~~
~~February 3, 2010, debate in the House on passage of the H.R. 2843 (111th Congress), the Architect~~
~~of the Capitol Appointment Act.30 Mr. Ayers was confirmed by the Senate on May 12, 2010.31~~
~~Filling the Third Vacancy After the 1989 Act: 2018-~~
~~2019~~
~~Following Mr. Ayers’s retirement on November 23, 2018, Christine Merdon, the Deputy Architect~~
~~of the Capitol/Chief Operating Officer, became the Acting Architect of the Capitol. After her~~
~~resignation in August 2019, Thomas J. Carrol served as Acting Architect of the Capitol.~~
~~Reportedly, an executive search firm was hired to lead the search for a new Architect.32 The identity~~
~~of potential candidates was not publicly released by the commission.~~

~~27 U.S. Congress, House Appropriations Committee, Legislative Branch Appropriations for 2008, hearings, pt. 3, 110th~~
~~Cong., 1st sess., April 24, 2007 (Washington: GPO, 2007), p. 300.~~
~~28 “Finalists for AOC’s T op Job Delivered to President Bush,” by John McArdle, Roll Call, August 13, 2007.~~
~~29 U.S. Congress, House Committee on House Administration,~~ ~~Report on the Activities of the Committee on House~~
~~Adm inistration During the One Hundred Tenth Congress, 110th Cong., 2nd sess., H.Rept. 110-924 (Washington: GPO,~~
~~2008), p. 18.~~
~~30 Congressional Record, February 3, 2010, pp. H480-H482. No further action was taken on H.R. 2843 in the 111th~~
~~Congress.~~
~~31 Congressional Record, May 12, 2010, p. S3662.~~
~~32 Katherine T ully-McManus, “Ready to manage a world-famous building and grapple with a billion-dollar backlog? T his~~
~~job’s for you,” Roll Call, January 10, 2019.~~
~~Congressional Research Service~~

8

~~Architect of the Capitol: Evolution and Implementation of the Appointment Procedure~~

~~J. Brett Blanton was nominated to be Architect of the Capitol by President Trump on December 9,~~
~~2019.33 The nomination was referred to the Senate Committee on Rules and Administration. The~~
~~committee held a hearing on December 12, 2019, and Mr. Blanton was confirmed by voice vote in~~
~~the Senate on December 19, 2019.~~
~~Evaluation of the Current Bicameral Congressional~~
~~Commission Process in Choosing the Architect~~
~~The initial selection process, as wel~~ 27 The 1989 act required Mr. White to be reappointed under the new procedure no later than the sixth anniversary of the enactment of the law if he chose to remain in office. (P.L. 101-163, sec. 319(b), November 21, 1989, 103 Stat. 1068). 28 “Executive Calendar,” remarks in the Senate, Congressional Record, vol. 143, January 30, 1997, pp. 1304-1307, 1312. From the retirement of Mr. White until the confirmation of Mr. Hantman, William L. Ensign served as Acting Architect of the Capitol. 29According to the biography provided by the AOC, Mr. Ayers “joined the Architect of the Capitol as an Assistant Superintendent for the Senate Office Buildings. He served in several capacities over the next decade, including Deputy Superintendent for the Senate Office Buildings, Superintendent of the Library Buildings and Grounds, Acting Deputy Architect/Chief Operating Officer and Deputy Architect/Chief Operating Officer” (https://www.aoc.gov/architect-of-the-capitol/stephen-t-ayers-faia-ccm-leed-ap). Pursuant to 2 U.S.C. 1804, the Deputy Architect “shall act as Architect of the Capitol during the absence or disability of that official or whenever there is no Architect.” 30 U.S. Congress, House Appropriations Committee, Legislative Branch Appropriations for 2008, hearings, pt. 3, 110th Cong., 1st sess., April 24, 2007 (Washington: GPO, 2007), p. 300. 31 “Finalists for AOC’s Top Job Delivered to President Bush,” by John McArdle, Roll Call, August 13, 2007. Congressional Research Service 8 Architect of the Capitol: Evolution and Implementation of the Appointment Procedure anticipates completion of the appointment process in the 111th Congress, but in the meantime is reviewing whether the process is simply broken and requires new legislation.32 The three-year period following the retirement of the former Architect was also noted in the February 3, 2010, debate in the House on passage of H.R. 2843 (111th Congress), the Architect of the Capitol Appointment Act.33 Mr. Ayers was confirmed by the Senate on May 12, 2010.34 Filling the Third Vacancy After the 1989 Act: 2018-2019 Following Mr. Ayers’s retirement on November 23, 2018, Christine Merdon, the Deputy Architect of the Capitol/Chief Operating Officer, became the Acting Architect of the Capitol. After her resignation in August 2019, Thomas J. Carroll served as Acting Architect of the Capitol. Reportedly, an executive search firm was hired to lead the search for a new Architect.35 The identity of potential candidates was not publicly released by the commission. J. Brett Blanton was nominated to be Architect of the Capitol by President Trump on December 9, 2019.36 The nomination was referred to the Senate Committee on Rules and Administration. The committee held a hearing on December 12, 2019, and Mr. Blanton was confirmed by voice vote in the Senate on December 19, 2019. Filling the Fourth Vacancy After the 1989 Act: 2023 As stated above, on February 13, 2023, previous Architect J. Brett Blanton was informed by the White House that his appointment as Architect was terminated. The Acting Architect of the Capitol is Chere Rexroat, who is also the Chief Engineer. Evaluation of the Current Bicameral Congressional Commission Process in Choosing the Architect The initial selection process, as well as the subsequent searches for successors, have raised a as the subsequent searches for successors, have raised a
number of potential issues for consideration. These issues, which are discussed below, include the number of potential issues for consideration. These issues, which are discussed below, include the
length of the commission’s work and the potential for extended vacancies in the position; the length of the commission’s work and the potential for extended vacancies in the position; the
operation of the commission; and what would happen in the event an incumbent seeks operation of the commission; and what would happen in the event an incumbent seeks
~~reappointment as Architect.~~
reappointment as Architect. 32 U.S. Congress, House Committee on House Administration, Report on the Activities of the Committee on House Administration During the One Hundred Tenth Congress, 110th Cong., 2nd sess., H.Rept. 110-924 (Washington: GPO, 2008), p. 18. 33 Congressional Record, February 3, 2010, pp. H480-H482. No further action was taken on H.R. 2843 in the 111th Congress. 34 Congressional Record, May 12, 2010, p. S3662. 35 Katherine Tully-McManus, “Ready to manage a world-famous building and grapple with a billion-dollar backlog? This job’s for you,” Roll Call, January 10, 2019. 36 See https://trumpwhitehouse.archives.gov/presidential-actions/president-donald-j-trump-announces-intent-nominate-individuals-key-administration-posts-23/ and https://www.congress.gov/nomination/116th-congress/1324. Congressional Research Service 9 Architect of the Capitol: Evolution and Implementation of the Appointment Procedure Time Frame for Filling a Vacancy
Although the commission may transmit names whenever there is a vacancy, it is not clear from Although the commission may transmit names whenever there is a vacancy, it is not clear from
either the statute or the legislative history exactly when the commission proceeds. The act does not either the statute or the legislative history exactly when the commission proceeds. The act does not
address the possibility of the bicameral congressional commission beginning its work before an address the possibility of the bicameral congressional commission beginning its work before an
incumbent’s departure. In addition, the statute is silent on any time frame for the commission’s incumbent’s departure. In addition, the statute is silent on any time frame for the commission’s
forwarding of recommendations following a retirement, presidential action on the commission’s forwarding of recommendations following a retirement, presidential action on the commission’s
recommendation, or congressional action once a nomination has been received. recommendation, or congressional action once a nomination has been received.
From the retirement of George White until the Senate confirmation of Alan Hantman, 436 days From the retirement of George White until the Senate confirmation of Alan Hantman, 436 days
elapsed.elapsed.
Some 1,193 days elapsed from the retirement of Alan Hantman until the Senate confirmation of his Some 1,193 days elapsed from the retirement of Alan Hantman until the Senate confirmation of his
successor, Stephen T. Ayers. This period included a change in presidential Administration. successor, Stephen T. Ayers. This period included a change in presidential Administration.
The Senate confirmation of J. Brett Blanton occurred 391 days after the retirement of Mr. Ayers. The Senate confirmation of J. Brett Blanton occurred 391 days after the retirement of Mr. Ayers.
Internal Operations of the Commission
The statute provides no guidance on how the commission should operate. If the commission has The statute provides no guidance on how the commission should operate. If the commission has
rules of procedure or criteria for choosing potential nominees, they have not been made public nor rules of procedure or criteria for choosing potential nominees, they have not been made public nor
would they be binding for a future selection. In comparison, the statute establishing a commission would they be binding for a future selection. In comparison, the statute establishing a commission
to recommend individuals to serve as Comptroller General similarly does not address commission to recommend individuals to serve as Comptroller General similarly does not address commission
procedure.procedure.
Potential questions related to commission procedures include Potential questions related to commission procedures include
 who presides over its meetings;  who presides over its meetings;
 where and how meetings are  where and how meetings are ~~cal ed;~~
called;  how many members of the commission constitute a quorum; how many members of the commission constitute a quorum;

~~33 See https://trumpwhitehouse.archives.gov/presidential-actions/president-donald-j-trump-announces-intent-nominate-~~
~~individuals-key-administration-posts-23/ and https://www.congress.gov/nomination/116th-congress/1324.~~
~~Congressional Research Service~~

9

~~Architect of the Capitol: Evolution and Implementation of the Appointment Procedure~~

 what constitutes agreement by Members of the commission regarding nominees,  what constitutes agreement by Members of the commission regarding nominees,
including whether nominees need approval of a majority or including whether nominees need approval of a majority or al all of the Members; and of the Members; and
 how the commission receives administrative or financial support (i.e., any staffing  how the commission receives administrative or financial support (i.e., any staffing
expenses, travel expenses, or other expenses related to the search and evaluation of expenses, travel expenses, or other expenses related to the search and evaluation of
candidates). candidates).
When former Architect Alan Hantman was chosen, press reports were the only source of When former Architect Alan Hantman was chosen, press reports were the only source of
information that he was among the candidates whose names were forwarded to President Clinton information that he was among the candidates whose names were forwarded to President Clinton
for consideration.for consideration.3437 One press account indicated that “Hantman is the ‘primary choice’ of the 14- One press account indicated that “Hantman is the ‘primary choice’ of the 14-
Members of Congress appointed to find the Capitol’s tenth Architect.”Members of Congress appointed to find the Capitol’s tenth Architect.”3538 This same press account This same press account
reported the following: “According to a letter from the chairman of the Senate Rules and reported the following: “According to a letter from the chairman of the Senate Rules and
Administration Committee Chairman John Warner (R-VA), Hantman was the first choice of the Administration Committee Chairman John Warner (R-VA), Hantman was the first choice of the
Members ‘by a substantial margin.’”Members ‘by a substantial margin.’”3639 The account quotes an aide as reporting that “ The account quotes an aide as reporting that “~~al 14~~
~~commission members voted either by bal ot or proxy for the nominees,” although the votes were~~
~~not published.37~~all 14 37 Juliet Eilperin, “Rockefeller Center Architect Top Pick For Capitol Position,” Roll Call, September 23, 1996, pp. A-1, A-28. 38 Ibid. 39 Ibid. Congressional Research Service 10 Architect of the Capitol: Evolution and Implementation of the Appointment Procedure commission members voted either by ballot or proxy for the nominees,” although the votes were not published.40
As stated above, following Mr. Hantman’s term of office, the commission reportedly forwarded a As stated above, following Mr. Hantman’s term of office, the commission reportedly forwarded a
list of names to President list of names to President ~~George W.~~ Bush in August 2007.Bush in August 2007.3841 President Bush did not forward a President Bush did not forward a
nomination to the Senate prior to the end of his term. This period also encompassed the end of the nomination to the Senate prior to the end of his term. This period also encompassed the end of the
110th Congress, with resultant changes in membership of the commission at the start of the 111th 110th Congress, with resultant changes in membership of the commission at the start of the 111th
Congress. The 1989 act does not address a change in the membership of the commission while Congress. The 1989 act does not address a change in the membership of the commission while
there is a vacancy in the position. there is a vacancy in the position.
Limited information regarding the commission’s operations to Limited information regarding the commission’s operations to ~~fil~~ fill the third vacancy was made the third vacancy was made
publicly available.publicly available.
Process for the Reappointment of an Incumbent Architect
There are also unresolved questions should an incumbent Architect decide to seek reappointment There are also unresolved questions should an incumbent Architect decide to seek reappointment
under the current process established in 1989. It is not clear if or when the commission would form under the current process established in 1989. It is not clear if or when the commission would form
under this circumstance or if the incumbent Architect would need to be chosen again among at least under this circumstance or if the incumbent Architect would need to be chosen again among at least
two other potential candidates. Should the President choose not to reappoint the incumbent, it is two other potential candidates. Should the President choose not to reappoint the incumbent, it is
unclear if formal notification would be required before the commission could begin its work or how unclear if formal notification would be required before the commission could begin its work or how
this would be accomplished. this would be accomplished.
Discussion Regarding the Qualifications of the
Architect
Many of the introduced Many of the introduced ~~bil s~~bills and congressional hearings related to appointment have addressed the and congressional hearings related to appointment have addressed the
fact that not fact that not al all of those who have held the position of Architect of the Capitol have been trained of those who have held the position of Architect of the Capitol have been trained
architects.architects.3942 Some proposed legislation in the 1950s and 1960s would have required all future nominees to be trained architects.43 Alternatively, at least one bill ~~Some proposed legislation in the 1950s and 1960s would have required al future~~

~~34 Juliet Eilperin, “Rockefeller Center Architect Top Pick For Capitol Position,” Roll Call, September 23, 1996, pp. A-1,~~
~~A-28.~~
~~35 Ibid.~~
~~36 Ibid.~~
~~37 Ibid.~~
~~38 “Finalists for AOC’s T op Job Delivered to President Bush,” by John McArdle, Roll Call, August 13, 2007.~~
39 For a comparison to statutory qualifications in other positions, see the Appendix in CRS Report RL33886, Statutory
~~Congressional Research Service~~

10

~~Architect of the Capitol: Evolution and Implementation of the Appointment Procedure~~

~~nominees to be trained architects.40 Alternatively, at least one bil~~ —introduced in 1968 during a —introduced in 1968 during a
period of congressional concern over plans for the expansion of the west front of the Capitol—period of congressional concern over plans for the expansion of the west front of the Capitol—
sought to change the title of the office to “Superintendent of the Capitol Buildingssought to change the title of the office to “Superintendent of the Capitol Buildings and Grounds” to and Grounds” to
reflect the fact the then-Architect did not have this training.reflect the fact the then-Architect did not have this training.41
44 When Architect White announced his retirement in 1995, concerns were voiced within Congress, When Architect White announced his retirement in 1995, concerns were voiced within Congress,
the media, and professional groups about the necessary qualifications for any successor. There was the media, and professional groups about the necessary qualifications for any successor. There was
considerable discussion about the necessity of the new Architect being a licensed architect and the considerable discussion about the necessity of the new Architect being a licensed architect and the
type of professional management training and experience needed for the position. type of professional management training and experience needed for the position.
The American Institute of Architects (AIA) expressed its preference for a licensed architect with The American Institute of Architects (AIA) expressed its preference for a licensed architect with
experience in management, procurement, and historic restoration. In 1995, the AIA sent experience in management, procurement, and historic restoration. In 1995, the AIA sent
40 Ibid. 41 “Finalists for AOC’s Top Job Delivered to President Bush,” by John McArdle, Roll Call, August 13, 2007. 42 For a comparison to statutory qualifications in other positions, see the Appendix in CRS Report RL33886, Statutory Qualifications for Executive Branch Positions, by Henry B. Hogue. 43 S. 1847 (86th Cong.), S. 1806 (88th Cong.), S. 1658 (89th Cong.). 44 H.R. 19127 (90th Cong.). Rep. Kupperman, “Introduction of Bill to Change the Title of the Office of the ‘Architect of the Capitol’ to ‘Superintendent of the Capitol Building and Grounds,’” remarks in the House, Congressional Record, vol. 114, July 31, 1968, p. 24430. Congressional Research Service 11 Architect of the Capitol: Evolution and Implementation of the Appointment Procedure congressional leaders a list of nine potential Architect nominees for consideration.45 The following ~~congressional leaders a list of nine potential Architect nominees for consideration.42 The following~~
year, Raj Barr-Kumar, the president-elect and a year, Raj Barr-Kumar, the president-elect and a ~~fel ow~~fellow of the American Institute of Architects, of the American Institute of Architects,
described the process by which the AIA arrived at these names and qualifications and described the process by which the AIA arrived at these names and qualifications and
responsibilities it identified in a February 29, 1996, hearing of the Senate Rules and Administration responsibilities it identified in a February 29, 1996, hearing of the Senate Rules and Administration
Committee.Committee.43
~~To fil~~ 46 To fill the second Architect vacancy after the 1989 act, the AIA again urged the selection of a the second Architect vacancy after the 1989 act, the AIA again urged the selection of a
licensed architect.licensed architect.4447 Others, including some Members of Congress, emphasized a background in Others, including some Members of Congress, emphasized a background in
management because the job responsibilities, particularly with the opening of the Capitol Visitor management because the job responsibilities, particularly with the opening of the Capitol Visitor
Center, are broader than building design and construction and include some duties not necessarily Center, are broader than building design and construction and include some duties not necessarily
associated with typical architectural practice. associated with typical architectural practice.
This discussion continued during the third vacancy, and the AIA again expressed its preference for a This discussion continued during the third vacancy, and the AIA again expressed its preference for a
licensed architect.licensed architect.4548 The qualifications listed by JDG Associates, the executive search firm, listed The qualifications listed by JDG Associates, the executive search firm, listed
“Architectural training and licensure a plus.”“Architectural training and licensure a plus.”4649 Mr. Blanton is “a Licensed Professional Engineer in Mr. Blanton is “a Licensed Professional Engineer in
~~Civil~~ Civil Engineering and a Certified Energy Manager.”50 45 American Institute of Architects, “Suggested Candidates for Appointment as Architect of the Capitol,” April 2, 1995. 46 U.S. Congress, Senate Rules and Administration Committee, FY1997 Senate Budget, 104th Cong., 2nd sess., February 29, 1996 (unpublished). 47~~Engineering and a Certified Energy Manager.”47~~

Qualifications for Executive Branch Positions, by Henry B. Hogue.
~~40 S. 1847 (86th Cong.), S. 1806 (88th Cong.), S. 1658 (89th Cong.).~~
~~41 H.R. 19127 (90th Cong.). Rep. Kupperman, “Introduction of Bill to Change the T itle of the Office of the ‘Architect of~~
~~the Capitol’ to ‘Superintendent of the Capitol Building and Grounds,’” remarks in the House, Congressional Record, vol.~~
~~114, July 31, 1968, p. 24430.~~
~~42 American Institute of Architects, “Suggested Candidates for Appointment as Architect of the Capitol,” April 2, 1995 .~~
~~43 U.S. Congress, Senate Rules and Administration Committee, FY97 Senate Budget, 104th Cong., 2nd sess., February 29,~~
~~1996 (unpublished).~~
44 American Institute of Architects, “Tell the President to Choose an Architect,” American Institute of Architects, “Tell the President to Choose an Architect,” The Angle, vol. 5, no. 22, , vol. 5, no. 22, ~~Oct ober~~October 11, 11,
2007. American Institute of Architects, “2007. American Institute of Architects, “ The Architect of the Capitol Should BeThe Architect of the Capitol Should Be An ArchitectAn Architect ,” December 4, 2008; ,” December 4, 2008;
American Institute of Architects, “Make the Next Architect of the Capitol A Licensed Professional Architect,” American Institute of Architects, “Make the Next Architect of the Capitol A Licensed Professional Architect,” Issue
Brief, February, February 2008. 2008.
45 48 Ned Cramer, “ Ned Cramer, “~~T he~~The Architect of the Capitol Should Be an Architect,” Architect of the Capitol Should Be an Architect,” Architect, March 2019; Katherine , March 2019; Katherine ~~T ully~~Tully--
McManus, “Ready to manage a world-famousMcManus, “Ready to manage a world-famous ~~building~~ building and grapple with a billion-dollarand grapple with a billion-dollar backlog? backlog? ~~T his~~This job’s for you,” job’s for you,”
Roll Call, January 10, 2019; William Bates and Jane Frederick, “, January 10, 2019; William Bates and Jane Frederick, “ Lawmakers shouldLawmakers should consider experience, diversity in consider experience, diversity in
choosing the nextchoosing the next Architect of the Capitol,” Architect of the Capitol,” The Hill, May 19, 2019. , May 19, 2019.
4649 Katherine Katherine ~~T ully~~Tully-McManus, “Ready to manage a world-famous-McManus, “Ready to manage a world-famous ~~building~~ building and grapple with a billion-dollar backlog? and grapple with a billion-dollar backlog? ~~T his~~This
job’s for you,” job’s for you,” Roll Call, January 10, 2019; JDG, January 10, 2019; JDG Associates, Ltd., “Associates, Ltd., “~~T he~~The United States Congress Architect of the Capitol,” United States Congress Architect of the Capitol,”
p. 4. p. 4.
47 50 See See https://www.aoc.gov/about-us/history/architects-of-the-capitol/j-brett-blanton. https://www.aoc.gov/about-us/history/architects-of-the-capitol/j-brett-blanton.
Congressional Research Service Congressional Research Service

1112

link to page link to page 1617 link to page link to page 1617 Architect of the Capitol: Evolution and Implementation of the Appointment Procedure

Appendix A. Legislation to Alter the Architect of the
Capitol Appointment Process
Table A-1. Proposals to Alter the Appointment of the Architect: 1959-Present
Term of
Date of
Congressional
Office (if
Bill
Introduction
Action (if any)
Process
specified)
S. 1847, S. 1847,
April April 30, 1959 30, 1959

joint appointment by Speaker of the House joint appointment by Speaker of the House
term expires term expires
86th Cong. 86th Cong.
and President pro tempore of the Senate and President pro tempore of the Senate
first day of first day of
odd-numbered odd-numbered
Congresses Congresses
S. 1800, S. 1800,
June 26, 1963 June 26, 1963

joint appointment by Speaker and President joint appointment by Speaker and President
term expires term expires
88th Cong. 88th Cong.
pro tempor pro temporea
first day of first day of
odd-numbered odd-numbered
Congresses Congresses
S. 1658, S. 1658,
April April 1, 1965 1, 1965

joint appointment by Speaker and President joint appointment by Speaker and President
term expires term expires
89th Cong. 89th Cong.
pro tempore pro tempore
first day of first day of
odd-numbered odd-numbered
Congresses Congresses
H.R. 17102, H.R. 17102, October 12, October 12,

appointment alternating between Speaker appointment alternating between Speaker

92nd Cong. 92nd Cong.
1972 1972
and President pro tempore and President pro tempore
H.R. 63, H.R. 63,
January 3, 1973 January 3, 1973

appointment alternating between Speaker appointment alternating between Speaker

93rd Cong. 93rd Cong.
and President pro tempore and President pro tempore
S. 1278, S. 1278,
March 19, 1973 March 19, 1973
appointment alternating between Speaker appointment alternating between Speaker

93rd Cong. 93rd Cong.
and President pro tempore and President pro tempore
H.R. 8616, H.R. 8616,
July 14, 1975 July 14, 1975

commission commission of 10 Members (including the of 10 Members (including the
5 years 5 years
94th Cong. 94th Cong.
Speaker, Speaker, President pro tempore,President pro tempore, majority majority
and minorityand minority ~~leaders~~ leaders of the House and of the House and
Senate, and the chair and ranking minority Senate, and the chair and ranking minority
membersmembers of the Committeeof the Committee on House on House
AdministrationAdministration and the Senate Committee and the Senate Committee
on Rules and Administration)on Rules and Administration) nominate nominate
candidates, and the Speakercandidates, and the Speaker and President and President
pro tempore,pro tempore, fol owingfol owing confirmation by a confirmation by a
majoritymajority vote in each house, vote in each house, ~~shal~~ shall appoint appoint
S. 2205, S. 2205,
July 29, 1975 July 29, 1975

appointed by the Speaker and majority appointed by the Speaker and majority
7 years 7 years
94th Cong. 94th Cong.
leader of the Senate after considering leader of the Senate after considering
recommendationsrecommendations ~~from~~ from the majority and the majority and
minorityminority ~~leader~~sb leadersb
S. 2760, S. 2760,
May 22, 1980 May 22, 1980
Passed Senate Passed Senate
President nominates subject to advice and President nominates subject to advice and

96th Cong. 96th Cong.
11/24/1980 11/24/1980
consent of the Senate consent of the Senate
S.Rept. 96-818 S.Rept. 96-818
H.R. 3014, H.R. 3014,
November November 21, 21,
P.L. 101-163 P.L. 101-163
commission commission of 10 Members (including the of 10 Members (including the
10 years 10 years
101st Cong. 101st Cong.
1989 1989
Speaker, Speaker, President pro tempore,President pro tempore, majority majority
and minorityand minority ~~leaders~~ leaders of the House and of the House and
Senate, and the chair and ranking minority Senate, and the chair and ranking minority
membersmembers of the Committeeof the Committee on House on House
AdministrationAdministration and the Senate Committee and the Senate Committee
on Rules and Administration)on Rules and Administration) recommends recommends
candidates to the President for nomination candidates to the President for nomination
with consent of the Senate with consent of the Senate
Congressional Research Service Congressional Research Service

1213

Architect of the Capitol: Evolution and Implementation of the Appointment Procedure

Term of
Date of
Congressional
Office (if
Bill
Introduction
Action (if any)
Process
specified)
H.R. 1944, H.R. 1944,
June 28, 1995 June 28, 1995
P.L. 104-19 P.L. 104-19
added chair and ranking minority added chair and ranking minority members members

104th Cong. 104th Cong.
of the House and Senate Appropriations of the House and Senate Appropriations
CommitteesCommittees to commissionto commission established by established by
P.L. 101-163, increasing the number of P.L. 101-163, increasing the number of
MembersMembers of the commissionof the commission to 14 to 14
H.R. 4446, H.R. 4446,
December December 6, 6,

appointed jointly by 4 Members, appointed jointly by 4 Members, including including
10 years 10 years
109th Cong. 109th Cong.
2005 2005
the Speaker, the Speaker, the Senate majoritythe Senate majority leader, and leader, and
the House and Senate minoritythe House and Senate minority leaders leaders
H.R. 6656, H.R. 6656,
July 30, 2008 July 30, 2008

appointed jointly by 12 Members, appointed jointly by 12 Members, including including
10 years 10 years
110th Cong. 110th Cong.
the Speaker, the Speaker, the Senate majoritythe Senate majority leader, the leader, the
House and Senate minorityHouse and Senate minority leaders,leaders, and the and the
chair and ranking minoritychair and ranking minority ~~members~~ members of the of the
CommitteeCommittee on House Administration,on House Administration, the the
Senate CommitteeSenate Committee on Rules and on Rules and
Administration,Administration, and the House and Senate and the House and Senate
CommitteesCommittees on Appropriations on Appropriations
H.R. 2185, H.R. 2185,
April April 30, 2009 30, 2009

appointed jointly by 12 Members, appointed jointly by 12 Members, including including
10 years 10 years
111th Cong. 111th Cong.
the Speaker, the Speaker, the Senate majoritythe Senate majority leader, the leader, the
House and Senate minorityHouse and Senate minority leaders,leaders, and the and the
chair and ranking minoritychair and ranking minority ~~members~~ members of the of the
CommitteeCommittee on House Administration,on House Administration, the the
Senate CommitteeSenate Committee on Rules and on Rules and
Administration,Administration, and the House and Senate and the House and Senate
CommitteesCommittees on Appropriations on Appropriations
H.R. 2843, H.R. 2843,
June 12, 2009 June 12, 2009
Reported by Reported by
appointed jointly by 18 Members, appointed jointly by 18 Members, including including
10 years 10 years
111th Cong. 111th Cong.
Committee Committee on on
the Speaker, the Speaker, the President pro tempore,the President pro tempore, the the
House House
House and Senate majority House and Senate majority and minority and minority
Administration Administration
leaders, leaders, a membera member of the Senate to be of the Senate to be
(12/10/2009) (12/10/2009)
designated by the majority designated by the majority leader of the leader of the
H.Rept. 111-372 H.Rept. 111-372
Senate, a member Senate, a member of the Senate to be of the Senate to be
designated by the minority leaderdesignated by the minority leader of the of the
Passed House Passed House
Senate, and the chair and ranking minority Senate, and the chair and ranking minority
(2/3/2010) (2/3/2010)
members members of the Committeeof the Committee on House on House
Administration,Administration, the House Committeethe House Committee on on
Transportation and Infrastructure, the Transportation and Infrastructure, the
Senate CommitteeSenate Committee on Rules and on Rules and
Administration,Administration, and the House and Senate and the House and Senate
CommitteesCommittees on Appropriations on Appropriations
Source: CRS survey of legislation. CRS survey of legislation.
Notes: This table includes This table includes ~~al legislation~~ all legislation identified by CRS as of the date of this report.identified by CRS as of the date of this report. Additional bil sAdditional bil s wil be wil be
added if identified. added if identified.
a. Under S. 1806 (88th Congress), which was introduced the day after S. 1800, the Architect would be unable to a. Under S. 1806 (88th Congress), which was introduced the day after S. 1800, the Architect would be unable to
“evaluate, review, “evaluate, review, give preliminarygive preliminary approval to, or otherwiseapproval to, or otherwise pass judgment” on construction or renovation of pass judgment” on construction or renovation of
the Capitol buildings and grounds the Capitol buildings and grounds
b. S. 2206, 94th Congress, was introduced the same b. S. 2206, 94th Congress, was introduced the same day and addressed the appointment of the Comptrol er day and addressed the appointment of the Comptrol er
General General and Deputy Comptrol erand Deputy Comptrol er General.General.
Congressional Research Service Congressional Research Service

1314

link to page link to page 1718 link to page link to page 1718 Architect of the Capitol: Evolution and Implementation of the Appointment Procedure

Appendix B. Architects of the Capitol Since 1793
Since 1793, 12 persons have held the position currently known as the Architect of the Capitol.Since 1793, 12 persons have held the position currently known as the Architect of the Capitol.4851 Of Of
these, two served for more than three decades and two others served for more than two decades. these, two served for more than three decades and two others served for more than two decades.
As stated above, pursuant to the 1989 act, any subsequent appointments would be for a term of 10 As stated above, pursuant to the 1989 act, any subsequent appointments would be for a term of 10
years, with the possibility of reappointment. years, with the possibility of reappointment.
Table B-1 lists the individualslists the individuals who have served as Architect, including names, dates of service, and who have served as Architect, including names, dates of service, and
links to biographical information. links to biographical information.
Table B-1. Architects of the Capitol
Name
Dates of Service
Biographical Information
Wil iam Wil iam Thornton Thornton
1793 1793
https://www.aoc.gov/about-us/history/architects-of-the-capitol/dr- https://www.aoc.gov/about-us/history/architects-of-the-capitol/dr-
wil iam-thornton wil iam-thornton
Benjamin Benjamin Latrobe Latrobe
1803-1811 1803-1811
https://www.aoc.gov/about-us/history/architects-of-the-capitol/ https://www.aoc.gov/about-us/history/architects-of-the-capitol/
1815-1817 1815-1817
benjamin-henry-latrobe benjamin-henry-latrobe
Charles Bulfinch Charles Bulfinch
1818-1829 1818-1829
https://www.aoc.gov/about-us/history/architects-of-the-capitol/ https://www.aoc.gov/about-us/history/architects-of-the-capitol/
charles-bulfinch charles-bulfinch
Thomas Walter Thomas Walter
1851-1865 1851-1865
https://www.aoc.gov/about-us/history/architects-of-the-capitol/ https://www.aoc.gov/about-us/history/architects-of-the-capitol/
thomas-ustick-walter thomas-ustick-walter
Edward Clark Edward Clark
1865-1902 1865-1902
https://www.aoc.gov/about-us/history/architects-of-the-capitol/ https://www.aoc.gov/about-us/history/architects-of-the-capitol/
edward-clark edward-clark
El iott Woods El iott Woods
1902-1923 1902-1923
https://www.aoc.gov/about-us/history/architects-of-the-capitol/ https://www.aoc.gov/about-us/history/architects-of-the-capitol/
~~el iott~~elliott-woods -woods
David Lynn David Lynn
1923-1954 1923-1954
https://www.aoc.gov/about-us/history/architects-of-the-capitol/ https://www.aoc.gov/about-us/history/architects-of-the-capitol/
david-lynn david-lynn
J. George J. George Stewart Stewart
1954-1970 1954-1970
https://www.aoc.gov/about-us/history/architects-of-the-capitol/j- https://www.aoc.gov/about-us/history/architects-of-the-capitol/j-
george-stewart george-stewart
George George White White
1971-1995 1971-1995
https://www.aoc.gov/about-us/history/architects-of-the-capitol/ https://www.aoc.gov/about-us/history/architects-of-the-capitol/
george-m-white-faia george-m-white-faia
Alan Hantman Alan Hantman
1997-2007 1997-2007
https://www.aoc.gov/about-us/history/architects-of-the-capitol/ https://www.aoc.gov/about-us/history/architects-of-the-capitol/
alan-m-hantman-faia alan-m-hantman-faia
Stephen T. Ayers Stephen T. Ayers
2010-2018 2010-2018
https://www.aoc.gov/about-us/history/architects-of-the-capitol/ https://www.aoc.gov/about-us/history/architects-of-the-capitol/
stephen-t-ayers-faia-leed-ap stephen-t-ayers-faia-leed-ap
J. Brett Blanton J. Brett Blanton
2020- 2020-~~presen~~ta2023a
https://www.aoc.gov/about-us/history/architects-of-the-capitol/j- https://www.aoc.gov/about-us/history/architects-of-the-capitol/j-
brett-blanton brett-blanton
Sources: U.S. Architect of the Capitol, U.S. Architect of the Capitol, Architects of the Capitol since 1793, https://www.aoc.gov/about-us/history/https://www.aoc.gov/about-us/history/
architects-of-the-capitol; and Wil iamarchitects-of-the-capitol; and Wil iam ~~Al en,~~ Allen, History of the United States Capitol (Washington: GPO, 2001). (Washington: GPO, 2001).
a. Mr. Blanton’s nomination was confirmeda. Mr. Blanton’s nomination was confirmed by the Senate on Decemberby the Senate on December 19, 2019, but he was sworn in as 19, 2019, but he was sworn in as
Architect on January 16, 2020. Architect on January 16, 2020.

~~48 T he~~ 51 The term Architect of the Capitol also refers to some of the early occupants of the office who were term Architect of the Capitol also refers to some of the early occupants of the office who were known as known as
Commissioner, Surveyor of PublicCommissioner, Surveyor of Public Buildings,Buildings, or Superintendent of the Capitol.or Superintendent of the Capitol. For more information, see William Allen, For more information, see William Allen,
History of the United States Capitol (Washington: GPO, 2001), pp. 27, 50-51, 398, and 400-401. (Washington: GPO, 2001), pp. 27, 50-51, 398, and 400-401.
Congressional Research Service Congressional Research Service

1415

Architect of the Capitol: Evolution and Implementation of the Appointment Procedure

Author Information

Ida A. Brudnick Ida A. Brudnick

Specialist on the Congress Specialist on the Congress

Acknowledgments
Portions of this report were previously authored by Mildred Amer, formerly a Portions of this report were previously authored by Mildred Amer, formerly a ~~specialist~~Specialist on the Congress. The on the Congress. The
listed author has updated the report and may be contacted with any questions. listed author has updated the report and may be contacted with any questions.

Disclaimer
This document was prepared by the Congressional Research Service (CRS). CRS serves as nonpartisan This document was prepared by the Congressional Research Service (CRS). CRS serves as nonpartisan
shared staff to congressional committees and Members of Congress. It operates solely at the behest of and shared staff to congressional committees and Members of Congress. It operates solely at the behest of and
under the direction of Congress. Information in a CRS Report should under the direction of Congress. Information in a CRS Report should ~~n ot~~not be relied upon for purposes other be relied upon for purposes other
than public understanding of information that has been provided by CRS to Members of Congress in than public understanding of information that has been provided by CRS to Members of Congress in
connection with CRS’s institutional role. CRS Reports, as a work of the United States Government, are not connection with CRS’s institutional role. CRS Reports, as a work of the United States Government, are not
subject to copyright protection in the United States. Any CRS Report may be reproduced and distributed in its subject to copyright protection in the United States. Any CRS Report may be reproduced and distributed in its
entirety without permission from CRS. However, as a CRS Report may include copyrighted images or entirety without permission from CRS. However, as a CRS Report may include copyrighted images or
material from a third party, you may need to obtain the permission of the copyright holder if you wish to copy material from a third party, you may need to obtain the permission of the copyright holder if you wish to copy
or otherwise use copyrighted material. or otherwise use copyrighted material.

Congressional Research Service Congressional Research Service
R41074 R41074 · VERSION 810 · UPDATED
1516