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Smithsonian Secretary Lonnie Bunch Defends Museum, Plans 2026 Exit

By Drooid · Sep 26, 2026, 7:58 AM UTC · How we work

Summary

Story summary

Smithsonian secretary Lonnie Bunch defended the museum against political interference.
He announced stepping down at the end of 2026.
U.S. President Donald Trump’s administration called Smithsonian leaders radical activists and ordered a content review.
The White House ordered warning signs outside the National Museum of American History accusing institutions of rewriting history.
Producer Shonda Rhimes pledged $1 million to a legacy fund for the museum, joining a $3.5 million seed donation.

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Story summary

Smithsonian secretary Lonnie Bunch defended the museum against political interference.
He announced stepping down at the end of 2026.
U.S. President Donald Trump’s administration called Smithsonian leaders radical activists and ordered a content review.
The White House ordered warning signs outside the National Museum of American History accusing institutions of rewriting history.
Producer Shonda Rhimes pledged $1 million to a legacy fund for the museum, joining a $3.5 million seed donation.