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The Smithsonian Institution submitted additional documentation to the White House on Tuesday regarding its planned exhibits, responding to demands for detailed information about the institution’s programming for America’s 250th birthday celebrations.
For several months, President Donald Trump has pressured the Smithsonian to abandon what his administration calls “divisive narratives” in favor of more optimistic portrayals of American history and culture. The administration has suggested that federal funding could be withheld if the institution fails to comply. The Smithsonian, which operates 21 museums and the National Zoo, represents a cornerstone of American cultural heritage and draws millions of visitors to Washington annually.
Smithsonian Secretary Lonnie Bunch III informed staff via email that the institution had “transmitted more information in response to that request,” though it remains unclear whether the White House considers the submission satisfactory. Bunch indicated the process would continue, noting the institution would provide additional “relevant and appropriate materials” as needed.
The Trump administration has made clear its goal is to ensure Americans receive a positive account of the nation’s history, one not weighted by historical complexities or controversial episodes. This demand was formally outlined in a December 18 letter to Bunch from White House Budget Director Russell Vought and Domestic Policy Director Vince Haley.
“We wish to be assured that none of the leadership of the Smithsonian museums is confused about the fact that the United States has been among the greatest forces for good in the history of the world,” the letter stated. It further emphasized that Americans “will have no patience for any museum that is diffident about America’s founding or otherwise uncomfortable conveying a positive view of American history, one which is justifiably proud of our country’s accomplishments and record.”
While the Smithsonian is not technically a federal agency, it receives most of its funding from congressional appropriations, creating significant leverage for the administration’s demands.
The White House initially requested these materials in September but deemed the Smithsonian’s initial submission inadequate. In a March executive order, Trump claimed there had been a “concerted and widespread” effort over the past decade to rewrite American history by replacing “objective facts” with a “distorted narrative driven by ideology rather than truth.”
As part of the administration’s oversight efforts, Vice President JD Vance was appointed to the Smithsonian’s Board of Regents to monitor and “remove improper ideology” from all areas of the institution.
Historians and archival experts have expressed concern about politically motivated revisions to historical presentations. Matthew Delmont, a history professor at Dartmouth College, emphasized that “History is about evidence. It’s about welcoming complexity and nuance. It’s not about crafting a single story that needs to make everyone feel happy.”
Jim McSweeney, a retired National Archives archivist, cautioned against attempts to “whitewash or change anything based upon your political leanings,” arguing instead for an honest reckoning with “our shared experience.”
The administration’s scrutiny has already produced tangible changes. References to Trump’s two impeachments have been removed from his portrait display at the National Portrait Gallery’s “American Presidents” exhibition, though this information reportedly remained available online.
Administration officials have framed their review as necessary preparation for the nation’s upcoming 250th anniversary celebration of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, describing it as “a singular opportunity to justify confidence in the operations of America’s leading cultural institutions.”
The Smithsonian review represents just one element of Trump’s broader critique of what he considers overly liberal cultural institutions. The administration recently dismissed the Kennedy Center’s board and appointed new members who voted to add Trump’s name to the building’s exterior, prompting several artists to withdraw from scheduled performances.
At the White House itself, Trump has established a “Presidential Walk of Fame” featuring gilded photographs of presidents he selected, with accompanying plaques that reportedly praise his own administration while criticizing others, particularly excluding President Biden, who is represented by an autopen.
Neither the Smithsonian nor the White House responded to requests for additional comment regarding Tuesday’s submission.
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14 Comments
I’m concerned about political pressure on the Smithsonian’s programming. Museums should be spaces for open, nuanced dialogue – not partisan propaganda. Hopefully they can find a middle ground.
That’s a valid concern. The Smithsonian needs to preserve its independence and avoid being used as a political tool, while still engaging constructively with the administration.
I hope the Smithsonian can find a way to address the White House’s requests without compromising their standards of scholarship and impartiality. This is a delicate balancing act.
Agreed. The Smithsonian needs to assert its independence while still working constructively with the administration. Maintaining public trust will be crucial.
The Smithsonian’s exhibits should aim to educate and inspire, not push any particular agenda. I hope they can work with the White House to find an approach that works for all Americans.
Agreed. The Smithsonian has a responsibility to present history objectively, without succumbing to political pressure. Let’s see if they can find a reasonable compromise.
This is a sensitive issue, but I trust the Smithsonian to handle it responsibly. They have a track record of presenting complex historical narratives in a fair and balanced way.
Absolutely. The Smithsonian has the expertise and experience to navigate this situation while upholding their institutional integrity.
Interesting developments at the Smithsonian. I’m curious to see how this plays out between the institution and the White House. Maintaining balance between historical accuracy and cultural sensitivity will be key.
Indeed, it’s a delicate balance that the Smithsonian must navigate. Hopefully they can find a way to satisfy the administration’s concerns while upholding their mission of preserving and presenting American history objectively.
Maintaining the Smithsonian’s integrity is crucial. While working with the White House, they must ensure historical accuracy and nuance are not sacrificed for political expediency.
Well said. The Smithsonian’s role as a trusted, nonpartisan institution should be protected, even as they engage with the administration’s concerns.
The Smithsonian is such an important part of America’s cultural heritage. I hope they can find a way to work constructively with the White House to present exhibits that are both historically accurate and inclusive.
Agreed. The Smithsonian has an opportunity here to demonstrate how nuanced and thoughtful exhibit planning can be, balancing different perspectives on American history.