White House Orders Sweeping Smithsonian Overhaul to Match Trump’s Vision of ‘American Exceptionalism’

The White House is undertaking an extensive review of the Smithsonian Institution’s exhibitions, materials, and operations in preparation for America’s 250th anniversary, aiming to align them with President Donald Trump’s vision of history. According to a letter sent to Smithsonian Secretary Lonnie Bunch, signed by senior officials Lindsey Halligan, Vince Haley, and Russ Vought, the initiative seeks to “celebrate American exceptionalism, remove divisive or partisan narratives, and restore confidence in our shared cultural institutions.”

The review will cover online content, curatorial processes, exhibition planning, collections use, artist grants, and exhibit wording. Eight museums — including the National Museum of American History and the National Museum of African American History and Culture — must submit information on current exhibits and anniversary plans within 30 days. Within 120 days, they “should begin implementing content corrections where necessary, replacing divisive or ideologically driven language with unifying, historically accurate, and constructive descriptions.” Phase II will expand the review to additional museums, with “on-site observational visits” planned.

Trump’s March 27 executive order mandates removing “improper ideology” from Smithsonian institutions, charging they have “come under the influence of a divisive, race-centered ideology” that portrays American and Western values as harmful. The order promises to “restore the Smithsonian Institution to its rightful place as a symbol of inspiration and American greatness.”

Halligan said the review is about “preserving trust in one of our most cherished institutions,” ensuring museums remain “accurate, patriotic, and enlightening.” The Smithsonian responded that its work is “grounded in a deep commitment to scholarly excellence, rigorous research, and the accurate, factual presentation of history” and will review the letter with that commitment in mind.

The move follows recent controversies, including the removal of Harriet Tubman’s hymn book and Frederick Douglass’s memoir from display, and a placard about Trump’s impeachments from an exhibit — later restored after criticism. The Smithsonian said the removal was due to presentation issues, not political influence.

Trump has also exerted influence over the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, naming himself chairman, firing its bipartisan board, and vowing to block “anti-American propaganda.” He has dismissed the need for “woke” programming and House Republicans have even proposed renaming it the “Donald J. Trump Center for Performing Arts,” though current law prohibits such a change.

Link: NBCNews