📅 Date: September 20, 2026
📰 Source: CNN
📌 Topic: Smithsonian Institution, U.S. politics and culture
The Smithsonian Institution is preparing to launch a nationwide search for its next secretary as the organization faces growing political pressure from the Trump administration. The leadership search comes during an unusually tense period for the institution, with questions emerging about how much political influence could shape its future.
The current Smithsonian secretary, Lonnie G. Bunch III, announced that he will leave the position at the end of 2026. Bunch became the Smithsonian’s 14th secretary in 2019 and is the first African American to serve in the role. He previously founded the Smithsonian’s National Museum of African American History and Culture.
The leadership transition comes as President Donald Trump’s administration has sharply criticized some Smithsonian exhibitions and educational materials. The administration has accused the institution of presenting what it describes as inaccurate or overly ideological interpretations of American history. Smithsonian officials and others involved in the institution have faced increased scrutiny over exhibits dealing with race, immigration and gender identity.
The administration has also announced plans for approximately 12 temporary signs outside the National Museum of American History. Interior Secretary Doug Burgum said the signs would provide visitors with additional context about certain exhibits. The estimated cost of producing the signs is about $84,000, according to the CNN
📅 Date: September 20, 2026
📰 Source: CNN
📌 Topic: Smithsonian Institution, U.S. politics and culture
