Smithsonian’s Federal Funding and DEI Scrutiny

The Smithsonian Institution, which includes 21 museums, the National Zoo, and nearly 157 million objects and specimens, currently relies on taxpayer funding exceeding $1 billion annually. This funding has become a focal point as concerns grow over the institution’s focus on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) priorities and its portrayal of American history.

In recent years, under President Donald Trump, there were efforts to reshape the Smithsonian as federal budget reductions were proposed. This initiative was part of the broader aim to reconsider how taxpayer-supported institutions present historical narratives. A report released by the White House in July 2026 accused the Smithsonian of promoting DEI and leftist perspectives, alleging an imbalance in exhibits like the America 250 exhibit, which featured more liberal figures and causes compared to conservative ones.

Concerns were amplified when the Smithsonian promoted a museum training guide linking objectivity and merit to “white dominant culture.” Public backlash led to the institution’s apology for the guide. Smithsonian Secretary Lonnie Bunch III, who emphasized DAIE as central to museums, has been scrutinized for his leadership while receiving $4.4 million in salary and benefits from 2020 to 2024.

The Trump administration has actively sought records and changes from Secretary Bunch as part of its institutional review, culminating in a report advocating reforms and further executive actions. Despite receiving private donations and grants, the Smithsonian has depended largely on over $1 billion in annual taxpayer funding.

Recent budget requests during the Biden administration show a continual increase, rising from $960 million in fiscal 2019 to a record $1.24 billion in fiscal 2024. These requests highlight the institution’s growing reliance on federal funding. The exhibits and facilities command less budget focus compared to maintaining day-to-day operations, which encompass staff, security, and technology.

Diverse funding allocations exist among Smithsonian museums. The National Museum of Natural History leads 2026 funding requests with $51 million, followed by the National Museum of the American Indian and the National Zoo, receiving roughly $35 million and $34 million, respectively. The National Museum of American History requires about $27 million.

The analysis of budgets and appropriations suggests an ongoing debate about how the Smithsonian should present American history and utilize taxpayer funds for those narratives. The issue remains a significant consideration within the broader discussions between federal administration priorities and institutional policy directions.