Overview

• After a Truth Social post calling the Smithsonian “OUT OF CONTROL,” the president said he instructed his attorneys to “go through the Museums.”
• An Aug. 12 White House letter directed a comprehensive review of eight museums to align content with “American exceptionalism” and remove “divisive or partisan” narratives.
• Lindsey Halligan, the White House adviser leading the effort, said exhibits overemphasize slavery and requested placards and other materials to assess tone and framing.
• The Smithsonian says it is nonpartisan and operates under a 17-member Board of Regents, as historians and civil-rights advocates warn of censorship and whitewashing.
• Supporters like Sen. Mike Lee back the plan for taxpayer-funded museums, praising reforms to eliminate what they view as anti-American messaging.