The Trump administration has warned that federal agencies could reduce or end cooperation with the Smithsonian Institution if its leadership does not address White House concerns over museum programming, according to CNN.
In an August 28 letter made public this week, Interior Secretary Doug Burgum and White House Domestic Policy Council Director Vince Haley said agencies could reconsider artifact loans, procurement assistance and discretionary grants. The officials cited a White House review that accused the National Museum of American History of promoting political activism.
The Smithsonian receives roughly two-thirds of its funding from the federal government, making the warning significant despite the institution’s independent status. The administration has also raised concerns about potential violations of federal anti-discrimination law, though it did not provide specific examples.
The report said the White House has scrutinized the Smithsonian since 2025. President Donald Trump has sought greater influence over its leadership and programming. Smithsonian officials have defended the institution’s independence, saying its exhibitions are based on scholarship rather than partisan politics.
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— Reuters (@Reuters) September 3, 2026
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