White House Mandates Smithsonian Content Corrections Within 120 Days

WASHINGTON D.C. – The Trump administration has initiated a comprehensive review of Smithsonian Institution exhibitions, materials, and operations, with a directive for museums to implement "content corrections" within 120 days. This move, announced in a letter sent to Smithsonian Secretary Lonnie G. Bunch III on Tuesday, aims to align the institution's historical narratives with President Donald Trump's interpretation of American history, according to a report by The Wall Street Journal.

The White House letter, signed by senior associate Lindsey Halligan, Domestic Policy Council Director Vince Haley, and Office of Management and Budget chief Russell Vought, states that the initiative seeks to "ensure alignment with the president’s directive to celebrate American exceptionalism, remove divisive or partisan narratives, and restore confidence in our shared cultural institutions." This follows a March 2025 executive order titled "Restoring Truth and Sanity to American History," which accused the Smithsonian of promoting "divisive, race-centered ideology."

Initially, eight Smithsonian museums are targeted for review, including the National Museum of American History, the National Museum of African American History and Culture, and the National Portrait Gallery. These museums are required to submit materials regarding current and future exhibitions within 30 days. The administration also plans observational visits and walk-throughs to document themes and messaging.

The Smithsonian Institution responded by stating its work is "grounded in a deep commitment to scholarly excellence, rigorous research, and the accurate, factual presentation of history." A spokesperson added, "We are reviewing the letter with this commitment in mind and will continue to collaborate constructively with the White House, Congress, and our governing Board of Regents."

This directive has drawn criticism from historians and civil rights leaders who express concerns about political interference in the historically nonpartisan institution. Previous interactions between the administration and the Smithsonian include the temporary removal and subsequent re-contextualization of references to Trump's impeachments from an exhibit, and the resignation of National Portrait Gallery director Kim Sajet. The administration's significant financial leverage over the Smithsonian, which receives over 60% of its budget from federal appropriations, underscores the pressure on the institution.