On July 16, 2026, Secret Service officials discussed proposed security modifications to the White House perimeter during a meeting of the U.S. Commission of Fine Arts. The proposals include the removal of swords from statues and the replacement of temporary fencing with permanent access control measures. Andy Stohs, a technical adviser for the Secret Service, stated the goal is to eliminate temporary barriers to enhance security around Lafayette Square, which is described as the White House's 'front yard.'
Richard Macauley, chief of the Secret Service’s Uniformed Division, mentioned the necessity of removing the swords for security reasons, citing past incidents of public unrest that resulted in injuries. The Secret Service's proposal aims to replace the current fencing with a more permanent solution, and renderings of two potential public entrances were presented.
The committee received significant public feedback regarding the proposed changes, with concerns raised about the potential suppression of free speech and the lack of adherence to preservation review processes mandated by the National Historic Preservation Act. Additionally, the committee considered a proposal to replace temporary security tents with a permanent screening facility beneath Sherman Park. The National Park Service was contacted for comments but did not respond.