Smithsonian Museum Faces Criticism Over Shift in Exhibitions

The Smithsonian Museum has come under criticism for its perceived shift towards activism in its exhibitions. Laura Ingraham, host of ‘The Ingraham Angle,’ highlighted how progressive curators are allegedly redefining American history through what she describes as radical displays. Historian Dr. Jody Edward Ginn noted the noticeable exclusion of conservative perspectives in a new exhibit that reportedly features significantly more liberal items.

The shift in the Smithsonian’s approach has raised questions about whether America’s national museums are maintaining political neutrality. Former President Donald Trump has called on the Smithsonian to replace a modernist sculpture, ‘Infinity,’ with a towering statue of George Washington. In social media posts, Trump criticized the sculpture’s lack of representation of America, advocating for greater emphasis on the nation’s founding principles.

“Without him, our Country and our Freedoms wouldn’t exist,” Trump asserted regarding Washington.

Trump proposed an exhibition honoring Washington, suggesting it run until the 300th anniversary of his birth in 2032. His plan includes installing an 11-foot statue of Washington in the museum’s Flag Hall by Constitution Day.

‘Infinity,’ created by artist José de Rivera, has been a part of the museum since 1967 but Trump sees it as lacking in national significance. Trump has expressed repeated dissatisfaction with how the Smithsonian presents American history, particularly in the lead-up to the nation’s 250th anniversary.

In March 2025, Trump signed an executive order aimed at discontinuing what he termed as ‘divisive narratives’ at the museum. A subsequent report this year echoed these sentiments, urging for more focus on Washington and other Founding Fathers.

The Smithsonian’s Board of Regents, which includes key political figures, maintains that the institution strives to be nonpartisan and free from political influence. The Board recognizes a need for unbiased content and is urging leadership to take steps in that direction.

Smithsonian Secretary Lonnie Bunch has announced his intention to step down at the end of the year, amid pressures from the Trump administration.