House Hearing on Smithsonian’s Historical Narratives
The House Oversight Committee is conducting a hearing regarding allegations against the Smithsonian Institution. These claims suggest that the museum’s exhibits are politically biased and attempt to alter American history.
A White House report criticized the National Museum of American History, accusing it of disparaging the nation’s past. This has led to increased congressional scrutiny over its governance and management of federal funds.
President Donald Trump issued an order for signs outside the museum. These signs direct visitors to what the White House believes is “accurate” information about American history. This follows a report claiming the museum fails to present a unifying portrayal of the nation’s history.
The executive order tasks the National Park Service, responsible for maintaining museum sidewalks, with installing these signs. Trump also called for a temporary exhibit to address what his administration sees as historical inaccuracies.
Trump White House Criticism: Describes Smithsonian as promoting politically divisive narratives.
Due to the Smithsonian’s independent operation, the President cannot directly alter exhibits or leadership. The order instead targets federal property under the National Park Service’s jurisdiction.
Anthea M. Hartig, Director of the National Museum of American History, defended the museum. During her congressional testimony, she stated that the report did not accurately represent the museum’s body of work. She emphasized the ongoing work to improve museum content.
Trump’s executive order is part of a larger effort to revise the Smithsonian’s displays. Previously, in March, Trump directed the Smithsonian’s Board of Regents to remove divisive ideologies from its exhibits.
The White House has criticized the museum’s “Entertainment Nation” exhibit. Officials argued that it presents history through an ideological lens, rather than celebrating national achievements.
Lindsey Halligan, a White House official, stated that taxpayer funding should not support institutions undermining the country with one-sided narratives.
The Smithsonian announced it would review its content. It remains dedicated to scholarly research and unbiased history presentation. The institution is governed by a Board of Regents, which includes high-profile figures like Chief Justice John Roberts and Vice President JD Vance.
Approximately two-thirds of the Smithsonian’s $1 billion annual budget comes from federal funding.