The White House has released a report that criticizes the leadership of the Smithsonian Institution, especially the National Museum of American History, labeling them as radical activists who cannot be trusted. The report suggests that President Donald Trump may plan to replace the current leadership with his own team.
The report, released by the White House Domestic Policy Council, aligns with Trump’s ongoing campaign to reform some of Washington’s cultural and historical institutions. In March, Trump revealed plans to alter the Smithsonian Institution through an executive order aimed at cutting funding for programs promoting divisive narratives and ideologies he finds inappropriate.
According to the report, the Smithsonian Institution, particularly under its current leadership and interpretive ideology, fails to represent America’s story honestly and in a manner that is inspiring, unifying, and worthy of the nation. The report is authored by a former top Trump speechwriter and argues that the museum’s mission has strayed from straightforward historical education toward extreme political activism.
The Smithsonian has not immediately commented on the report. Currently, historian Lonnie Bunch serves as the first African American secretary of the Smithsonian. In a separate NBC interview, Bunch emphasized the importance of understanding how history shapes America. He stated, “The notion of being a more perfect union, not the perfect union, is really what motivates me.”
Historian Anthea M. Hartig is the first woman to lead the National Museum of American History. Trump’s drive to implement changes at the Smithsonian is part of his broader effort to transform cultural institutions, such as universities and artistic organizations, which he views as out of alignment with conservative perspectives.
Trump also made his mark on other cultural institutions, such as the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, although a judge later ordered the removal of signage with his name. His administration has pushed Columbia University to change policies by threatening cuts in federal funding.
Beyond Washington, Trump has enacted changes on historical sites, notably in Philadelphia, where a court ruling allowed interpretive panels to be reinstalled despite criticism they gloss over the painful aspects of slavery related to President George Washington’s home.
Gov. Josh Shapiro of Pennsylvania has accused Trump and his allies of attempting to rewrite history. In a CNN interview, he emphasized the need for presidents to share comprehensive narratives of history, asserting that understanding our past aids in shaping a better future.
The Domestic Policy Council’s report contends that the National Museum of American History undermines faith in American institutions and longstanding ideals. It suggests a need for commitment to restoring truth in how American history is taught.
The review concludes that the museum leadership and direction have been captured by a radical ideology opposing the honest portrayal of America’s noble story.