Trump Meets Smithsonian Secretary Amid White House Content Review

President Donald Trump met with Smithsonian Institution Secretary Lonnie Bunch III for a productive and cordial lunch at the White House, as part of the administration's ongoing review of the Smithsonian's exhibits for alleged bias and 'improper ideology.' Trump has expressed concerns that the Smithsonian promotes 'woke,' partisan, and divisive narratives, particularly emphasizing what he describes as an overemphasis on slavery and negative portrayals of American history. Lindsey Halligan, appointed by Trump to lead the review efforts, has criticized the Smithsonian for focusing too much on slavery rather than on the progress made since. The Smithsonian, which receives over $1 billion in federal funding, has agreed to cooperate by conducting an internal review to ensure exhibits align with values of scholarship, even-handedness, and nonpartisanship. Despite the White House's scrutiny and directives for government vetting of exhibits, the Smithsonian's Secretary Bunch has maintained an amicable and collaborative stance toward resolving the issues. However, questions remain about the extent of the White House's legal authority over Smithsonian content, as the institution operates independently of direct presidential control.