Trump orders sweeping review of Smithsonian museums

The Trump administration announced a comprehensive review of eight major Smithsonian museums on Tuesday to ensure their exhibitions align with the president's directive to "celebrate American exceptionalism" and remove what the White House termed "divisive or partisan narratives." The sweeping initiative comes ahead of America's 250th anniversary celebrations next year, marking the latest attempt by the administration to reshape the nation's cultural institutions.

In a letter to Smithsonian Secretary Lonnie Bunch III, three senior White House officials outlined detailed steps for what they described as a "comprehensive internal review" of museum content, including exhibition texts, educational materials, social media posts, and curatorial processes. The letter, signed by White House senior associate Lindsey Halligan, Domestic Policy Council Director Vince Haley, and Office of Management and Budget Director Russell Vought, called for museums to provide materials within 30 days and make corrections within 120 days.aol+2

Museums Face Scrutiny Under New Directive

The initial review will focus on eight Washington, D.C.-based museums, including the National Museum of American History, National Museum of African American History and Culture, National Museum of the American Indian, National Air and Space Museum, Smithsonian American Art Museum, National Portrait Gallery, and the Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden. Additional museums will be reviewed in a second phase, according to the White House letter.aol+2

The initiative stems from Trump's March executive order titled "Restoring Truth and Sanity to American History," which accused the Smithsonian of falling under the influence of "a divisive, race-centered ideology" that promotes "narratives that portray American and Western values as inherently harmful and oppressive". The order specifically targeted the National Museum of African American History and Culture, drawing criticism from civil rights advocates who view it as an attempt to minimize Black Americans' contributions to the country's history.wtop+2

Institution Responds Amid Growing Tensions

The Smithsonian responded diplomatically to the White House directive, stating it remains committed to "scholarly excellence, rigorous research, and the accurate, factual presentation of history". The institution said it would "continue to collaborate constructively with the White House, Congress, and our governing Board of Regents" while reviewing the letter.wtop+1

The review announcement follows recent controversies at the Smithsonian, including the temporary removal of references to Trump's two impeachments from an exhibit on presidential power, which were later restored after criticism. According to The Wall Street Journal, Halligan visited several Smithsonian museums after joining the administration in January and found content that she believed contradicted Trump's vision for America.aol+2

"The Smithsonian museums and exhibits should be accurate, patriotic, and enlightening—ensuring they remain places of learning, wonder, and national pride for generations to come," Halligan said in a statement. The review will include "observational visits and walk-throughs" by White House officials to document themes and messaging, with a final report expected in early 2026.newsmax+2