Overview

• The White House sent a letter to Smithsonian Secretary Lonnie Bunch launching a phased internal review of eight museums with deliverables due in 30, 75 and 120 days under President Trump’s March executive order to remove ‘improper ideology’.
• It directs museums to begin implementing content corrections within 120 days by replacing “divisive or ideologically driven” language with unifying, historically accurate descriptions across placards, wall didactics and digital displays.
• Reviewers have not been named and the comprehensive review is scheduled to conclude in early 2026, raising questions about oversight authority and accountability.
• The Smithsonian issued a cautious statement affirming its commitment to scholarly excellence and is evaluating the White House letter while consulting with Congress and its Board of Regents.
• Historians, academic associations and museum staff have condemned the initiative as partisan interference, reporting fear, self-censorship and operational disruption.