Trump Administration Launches Review to Align Smithsonian Exhibits with American Exceptionalism Agenda

The Smithsonian Institution, which oversees the nation’s principal public museums, is undergoing a thorough internal evaluation of its exhibits and materials at the request of the White House. The review aims to align with President Donald Trump’s edict that emphasizes American exceptionalism, eradicates divisive or partisan perspectives, and reinforces trust in cultural institutions shared by all Americans.

In a letter addressed to Lonnie Bunch III, Secretary of the Smithsonian Institution, three top White House advisors outlined the initiative’s objectives. The review will scrutinize public-facing content, the curatorial process for selecting exhibits, exhibition planning for both present and future displays, the utilization of existing materials and collections, and guidelines for narrative standards.

The first phase of the assessment will encompass eight key museums in Washington D.C., including the National Museum of American History, the National Museum of Natural History, the National Museum of African American History and Culture, the National Museum of the American Indian, the National Air and Space Museum, the Smithsonian American Art Museum, the National Portrait Gallery, and the Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden.

A timeline with milestones at 30, 75, and 120 days has been established, culminating in a report anticipated early in 2026. The Smithsonian Institution has yet to respond to CNN’s request for comment regarding this developing story.