Overview
- The Dec. 18 letter from Domestic Policy Council chief Vince Haley and OMB Director Russell Vought says most requested records remain outstanding and warns that federal money could be withheld.
- The administration is seeking current exhibition texts, draft plans for future shows, programming materials, and internal guidelines as part of a comprehensive review of eight museums.
- Reporting says the Smithsonian has until Jan. 13 to deliver the bulk of the materials, with the White House tying compliance to preparations for the 2026 semiquincentennial.
- The Office of Management and Budget cites its apportionment authority to condition access to funds, which account for roughly 62% of the Smithsonian’s budget.
- Smithsonian Secretary Lonnie G. Bunch III says the institution is committed to sharing information, notes delays tied to the government shutdown, and reiterates that curatorial decisions rest with the Smithsonian.