The Trump administration is proposing to reduce the Smithsonian's annual funding to its lowest level in years, framing this as part of a broader effort to eliminate ideologically motivated content from the nation's federally funded museums. The administration has expressed concern that exhibits prioritise activism and political messaging over historical accuracy and scholarly presentation.

The institution has drawn increasing scrutiny over exhibits exploring racial reparations and a 2020 graphic examining white culture, prompting congressional hearings and public debate about whether museum displays appropriately balance educational advocacy with objective historical treatment.