The Smithsonian has become a major target in the Trump administration’s culture war, with the White House accusing it of promoting divisive, race-focused ideology rather than neutral historical scholarship. The dispute has intensified through executive orders, congressional hearings and threats to reduce federal support, challenging the institution’s longstanding reputation for bipartisan independence.

Criticism has focused on exhibits including one about Benjamin Franklin’s links to slavery and speculative claims that enslaved people may have assisted with electrical experiments. The Smithsonian attracts about 15 million visitors annually through 21 museums, receives more than $1 billion a year in federal funding—around 62% of its total—and is governed independently by a 17-member Board of Regents; in September, Secretary Lonnie Bunch announced his resignation, citing stress.