President Donald Trump has signed a new executive order that aims to change how the Smithsonian Institution operates, targeting what he calls “improper ideology” and “divisive narratives” in museums, education programs, and cultural displays.
This move is part of a broader effort by Trump to reshape American culture by focusing only on what he considers “objective history” and conservative values.
Trump Criticizes “Distorted” American History
Speaking on Thursday, Trump said there has been a “widespread effort” over the past decade to change the way American history is taught, replacing truth with ideology.
He claims this has painted America’s founding principles in a negative light and that federal institutions like the Smithsonian have helped promote these ideas.
“Museums should be places to learn, not be subjected to ideological indoctrination,” Trump said.
JD Vance Put in Charge of Overhaul
Under this executive order, Vice President JD Vance—who is already a member of the Smithsonian Board of Regents—will now oversee all efforts to remove ideological content from:
- Smithsonian Museums
- The National Zoo
- Smithsonian Education and Research Centers
He will also work with the White House budget office to ensure that federal funds are not used for programs that “divide Americans based on race” or promote content that violates conservative federal policies.
Museums and Monuments in Focus
The order specifically criticizes several key institutions, including:
- National Museum of African American History and Culture
- The Women’s History Museum (in development)
- The American Art Museum
Trump has accused these museums of promoting ideologies that divide Americans and fail to present shared values.
The executive order also calls for:
- Restoring monuments and statues that were removed after George Floyd’s death in 2020
- Revamping Independence Hall in Philadelphia by July 4, 2026 for the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence
Cultural Institutions Under Conservative Pressure
Trump has made other similar moves recently, including:
- Becoming chairman of the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts to change its programming
- Pressuring Columbia University into changing its policies by threatening to cut off federal funding
This shows a clear pattern where federal support is tied to cultural alignment with Trump’s administration.
Smithsonian Institution Yet to Respond
The Smithsonian Institution, the world’s largest museum and research complex with 21 museums and the National Zoo, has not yet issued a public statement.
Linda St. Thomas, the institution’s chief spokesperson, said:
“We have no comment for now.”