How the Smithsonian became the latest front in Trump’s culture war
Summary
The Smithsonian Institution has recently become a focus of political conflict under President Donald Trump’s administration, which accuses it of promoting divisive, politically motivated views. This led to a White House report criticizing the Smithsonian’s exhibits and leadership, executive orders demanding warnings for visitors, and threats of federal funding cuts. The Smithsonian’s secretary, Lonnie Bunch, announced his resignation amid the controversy.Key Facts
- The Smithsonian’s National Museum of American History opened an exhibit on Benjamin Franklin, noting his connection to slavery and suggesting enslaved people may have helped with his electrical experiments.
- A White House report accused the Smithsonian of “ideological capture,” claiming it shifted from education to political activism.
- In March 2025, President Trump signed an executive order criticizing the Smithsonian for promoting “divisive, race-centered ideology.”
- On July 4, the White House publicly released a 162-page report on the Smithsonian’s alleged political bias.
- Two House committees held hearings criticizing the museum’s director and exhibits.
- President Trump ordered the Department of the Interior to put warning signs outside the museum about its “ideological capture.”
- Interior Secretary Doug Burgum warned the Smithsonian’s board that federal agencies might stop supporting the institution due to leadership concerns.
- Smithsonian secretary Lonnie Bunch resigned on September 8, citing stress related to the ongoing controversy.
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