Story perspectives

Trump Orders Smithsonian Signage, Exhibit Corrections Over ‘Activism’ Claims

7/26/2026

Summary

Story summary

U.S. President Donald Trump ordered signage outside the Smithsonian Museum of American History and required exhibit corrections that point visitors to other sites he says present an accurate American history.
The order follows the July 4 White House “Saving America’s Story” report, which accused the museum of activism on slavery, immigration and transgender issues.
Museum director Anthea Hartig testified before the Oversight Subcommittee on July 21, 2026, that the report mischaracterizes the museum.

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Story summary

U.S. President Donald Trump ordered signage outside the Smithsonian Museum of American History and required exhibit corrections that point visitors to other sites he says present an accurate American history.
The order follows the July 4 White House “Saving America’s Story” report, which accused the museum of activism on slavery, immigration and transgender issues.
Museum director Anthea Hartig testified before the Oversight Subcommittee on July 21, 2026, that the report mischaracterizes the museum.