In a report released on July 5, 2026, the White House Domestic Policy Council criticized the leadership of the Smithsonian Institution, particularly the National Museum of American History, labeling them as "radical activists" unfit to present an honest narrative of American history. The report, issued on Independence Day, signals a potential move to overhaul leadership and reshape the institution’s direction to align with conservative values. President Donald Trump has accused the museum of promoting "divisive narratives" and claims the current leadership has departed from educational scholarship toward political activism.
The report is part of Trump’s broader campaign to realign cultural and historical institutions—including museums, universities, and arts centers—with his administration’s ideological stance. Past actions include efforts to change funding and programming at institutions like Columbia University and the Kennedy Center. Critics, including Governor Josh Shapiro, argue that such moves amount to rewriting history and silencing diverse perspectives.
Smithsonian Secretary Lonnie Bunch, in a separate interview, emphasized the importance of confronting history to build a more inclusive society. The administration has not addressed whether leadership changes at the Smithsonian are imminent, but the tone of the report suggests significant intervention may be forthcoming.
The White House report asserts that the Smithsonian Institution, and the National Museum of American History in particular, under its current leadership and interpretive ideology, cannot be trusted to tell America's story honestly and in a way that is inspiring, unifying, and worthy of the great republic. The authors added that this ideological capture has moved the Museum's mission away from straightforward historical scholarship toward extreme political activism that seeks to divide the country.
The Smithsonian did not immediately respond to requests for comment. Historian Lonnie Bunch stated, "The notion of being a more perfect union requires us to face all aspects of our history." He emphasized the responsibility to continue making those aspirations available, accessible, and meaningful to a whole range of audiences.
Advocates, academics, and officials have been concerned for months. Governor Josh Shapiro, a potential presidential candidate, accused Trump and his allies of attempting to "rewrite history." He stated, "There's not one individual narrative that can encapsulate the American experience. And any president should want to make sure our history is told in full." Shapiro added, "If we understand where we came from, we can better shape where we are headed."
The National Museum of American History "confronts visitors with materials that represent all facets of America’s past," the council's report said. "We must be committed to restoring balance and truth to our national story."
In seeking to fulfill Trump's order to "Restore Truth and Sanity to American History," the review concluded by finding that the museum has been compromised "by the intention and at the expense of objective historical honesty."
This development raises questions about the future direction of the Smithsonian Institution and its role in presenting American history. The potential for significant changes in leadership and programming could have lasting impacts on how history is taught and understood by the public.