Tensions Rise Over Smithsonian's Independence Amid Trump Administration's Review

The Smithsonian Institution is currently facing significant pressure from the Trump administration, which has initiated a review of its exhibitions and programming. This move has sparked a backlash from Democratic senators and cultural critics who argue that it threatens the institution's independence and integrity.

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In early September 2025, four Democratic senators—Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.), Gary Peters (D-Mich.), and Jeffrey A. Merkley (D-Ore.)—sent a letter to Smithsonian Secretary Lonnie G. Bunch III urging him to resist what they described as "bullying" from the White House. The senators emphasized that the Smithsonian is a public-private partnership managed as an independent federal trust, not an executive agency subject to presidential control. They expressed concern over President Trump's recent criticisms of the Smithsonian, which he labeled as a bastion of "WOKE" ideology that focuses excessively on America's historical injustices without celebrating its successes.

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In response to the White House's directive, Bunch assured Smithsonian staff that the institution would conduct an internal review of its content while maintaining its autonomy. He stated, "Our independence is paramount," and reiterated that the Smithsonian would ensure its programming remains nonpartisan and factual. The White House's review specifically targets eight museums, including the National Museum of African American History and Culture, with the aim of aligning their narratives with what the administration describes as "American exceptionalism."

NPRNew Smithsonian Memo Demonstrates a Fight with Trump over American HistoryHyperallergicPoliticoNew York TimesThe Bulwark

Critics, including historians and former Smithsonian staff, have voiced strong opposition to the administration's actions. David C. Ward, a former senior historian at the Smithsonian, described the proposed changes as "demoralizing" and akin to censorship. The American Alliance of Museums warned that such governmental oversight could create a "chilling effect" across the museum sector, undermining the foundational values of freedom of thought and expression. Additionally, the review has drawn ire from the Black community and scholars who argue that it risks erasing essential narratives from American history.

Politico

While the Trump administration insists that its review seeks to eliminate divisive narratives, critics argue that it may lead to a sanitized version of history. The extent of the Smithsonian's compliance with the White House's demands remains unclear, particularly regarding which materials will be shared and how much influence the administration will exert over content changes. Furthermore, the potential impact on federal funding, which constitutes about 62% of the Smithsonian's budget, raises concerns about the institution's financial stability if it resists the review.

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As the situation unfolds, the Smithsonian is expected to continue its internal review while navigating the pressures from the Trump administration. The outcome of this conflict could have lasting implications for the institution's future and its role in representing a comprehensive narrative of American history.

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• “As you know," the senators wrote in part, "the Smithsonian Institution is a national treasure, and it is also a public-private partnership managed as an independent federal trust.” — Sen. Alex Padilla

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• “Our independence is paramount.” — Lonnie G. Bunch III, Secretary of the Smithsonian

New York Times

• “This is about more than exhibits. It’s about erasing the truths that make America whole.” — Dr. Jerry Washington, Education Scholar

New Smithsonian Memo Demonstrates a Fight with Trump over American History

• “The Smithsonian doesn’t need to be made great again. The Smithsonian is great,” — David C. Ward, Former Senior Historian at the Smithsonian

Politico