The Trump administration has instructed the Smithsonian Institution to carry out a sweeping review of its exhibitions and public materials ahead of the United States’ 250th anniversary in 2026, prompting accusations of political interference and attempts to “rewrite history.”
In a letter to Smithsonian secretary Lonnie Bunch, White House officials Lindsey Halligan, Vince Haley, and Russell Vought outlined plans for a “comprehensive internal review” to ensure that the museums “reflect the unity, progress, and enduring values that define the American story.” The review, they said, would align with Executive Order 14253, signed by Donald Trump in March, which calls for the removal of “improper, divisive or anti-American ideology” from federal historic institutions.
The executive order claims that in recent years “objective facts” have been replaced by “distorted narratives” that cast the nation’s founding principles in a negative light. The policy directs federal museums to become “solemn and uplifting public monuments” free of “ideological indoctrination.”
Eight Smithsonian Museums Targeted in First Phase
The initial review will cover the National Museum of American History, National Museum of Natural History, National Museum of African American History and Culture, National Museum of the American Indian, National Air and Space Museum, Smithsonian American Art Museum, National Portrait Gallery, and Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden.
According to the letter, the review will examine exhibition text, wall panels, websites, educational materials, and social media content to ensure “tone, historical framing, and alignment with American ideals.” Within 120 days, museums are expected to begin implementing “content corrections” by replacing what the administration deems “divisive or ideologically driven language” with “unifying, historically accurate” descriptions.
Critics Warn of Political Interference
U.S. journalist Jonathan Lemire told MSNBC the move was “really dangerous,” warning that altering historical content to fit one president’s vision is “not what a healthy democracy does.”
The White House insists the review is a “constructive and collaborative effort” that will not interfere with daily operations, but will “support a broader vision of excellence” that celebrates American exceptionalism.
Recent Content Changes Already Under Scrutiny
Earlier this month, the Smithsonian removed a placard in the National Museum of American History’s The American Presidency: A Glorious Burden exhibition, which mentioned Donald Trump’s two impeachments. The museum later stated the change was made because the placard did not meet display standards, not due to political pressure. The impeachment section will be updated “to reflect all impeachment proceedings in our nation’s history.”
