JFK Library reopens after shutdown attributed to Trump executive order

Feb. 19 (UPI) -- The John F. Kennedy Presidential Library was reopened Wednesday after it was abruptly closed on Tuesday.

The JFK Library and Museum announced the reopening on its website Wednesday after the JFK Library Foundation said the closure was due to firings of federal employees at the library.

"The sudden dismissal of federal employees at the JFK Library forced the museum to close today," the JFK Library Foundation said on Tuesday. "As the Foundation that supports the JFK Library, we are devastated by this news and will continue to support our colleagues and the Library."

A foundation spokesperson also told Boston's WCVB that the closure was the result of an executive order, although it was not immediately clear which order signed by President Donald Trump was responsible.

"Due to executive order, the JFK Library is closed until further notice," the spokesperson said.

A sign with the same statement was also posted on the library's door and guests told WCVB they were asked to leave.

One staff member of the library said just before the building was closed, several staff were in tears at a meeting where they learned up to nine staff members were laid off.

According to JFK grandson Jack Schlossberg, the order to close the JFK library came from the director of presidential libraries at the White House and the Department of Government Efficiency.

"It has nothing to do with government efficiency, the workers who were fired today actually bring in revenue for the government, Schlossberg said. "It's really about stealing the past and about generating propaganda."

Massachusetts Gov. Maura Healey described the effort as a "thoughtless crusade" that "has caused an iconic institution and economic driver to close in Massachusetts."

Sen. Elizabeth Warren, D-Mass., also criticized the Trump administration's broad efforts to cut federal jobs and programs.

"President Trump is firing American workers who monitor bird flu outbreaks, safeguard nuclear facilities, and now those who promote American history in Dorchester -- all to help pay for tax breaks for billionaires and giant corporations," she said. "Trump's shutdown of the JFK Library won't lower egg prices or make housing more affordable, but it's part of a retribution tour designed to distract from his agenda to enrich the wealthy and well-connected at the expense of everyone else."

Sen. Ed Markey, D-Mass. also condemned the closure.

"Shutting down this vital place of learning, engagement, and revenue creation, if even for a day isn't just wrong, it degrades the very office of the president," he said.