Trump Meets with Smithsonian Chief, Stirs Controversy over Museum Review Focusing on Slavery Portrayal

The Smithsonian Institution’s Secretary, Lonnie Bunch III, dined with President Donald Trump at the White House yesterday in a reportedly amicable and fruitful discussion.

According to White House sources, the meeting centered around the president’s recent directive for an internal review of museums. This initiative aims to assess whether exhibits align with Trump’s assertion that the Smithsonian has become uncontrolled and tends to portray a negative image of American history, particularly focusing on the dark chapter of slavery.

The meeting was initially reported by The New York Times. Lindsey Halligan, who is spearheading the administration’s review, was also present at the White House lunch.

Last week, Halligan expressed her view to Fox News that certain Smithsonian museums might be emphasizing slavery excessively. Instead, she advocated for a more significant focus on America’s progress since the abolition of slavery.

In response to this development, CNN reached out to the Smithsonian Institution for their comment but has yet to receive a reply. This story is still unfolding and will be updated with further information as it becomes available.