Trump Administration Pressures Smithsonian Over “Woke” Content

On August 28, officials of the Trump administration sent a letter to the Smithsonian Institution’s Board of Regents stating that federal agencies could no longer “in good conscience” support the museum complex. The letter warned that agencies might cease loaning artifacts, halt procurement assistance, and stop discretionary grants unless the Smithsonian’s leadership changes. The administration cited a White House report released on July 4 that alleged the National Museum of American History was promoting “extreme political activism” and potentially violating federal antidiscrimination law, though no specific examples were provided.

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The pressure on the Smithsonian follows an executive order signed in March 2025 that tasked Vice President J.D. Vance with appointing public members to the museum’s Board of Regents who align with the president’s priorities. A subsequent, sweeping review requested extensive documentation on exhibitions and operations. The Board of Regents includes Chief Justice John Roberts, members of Congress from both parties, and public regents—most of whom are former business executives and nonprofit board members. Two of the nine public regents’ terms have expired, and two additional seats will become vacant by the beginning of October, creating an opportunity for the administration to influence the board before the November midterm elections.

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Interior Secretary Doug Burgum and Domestic Policy Council director Vince Haley authored the August 28 letter, asserting that the concerns stem from “executive leadership and institutional ideology” at the Smithsonian and that the response must address the same.

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• “Because these concerns arise from executive leadership and institutional ideology at the Smithsonian, the appropriate response must likewise address executive leadership and institutional ideology,” — Interior Secretary Doug Burgum, wrote interior secretary

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With two regent seats opening soon, the administration may seek appointments that reflect its cultural agenda before the midterm elections. The outcome could affect the Smithsonian’s funding relationships with federal agencies and its ability to loan artifacts for future exhibitions.

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