Trump Orders Review of Smithsonian, National Museums for 'Woke' Content

President Donald Trump has launched a broad critique of the Smithsonian Institution and other museums across the United States, labeling them as "out of control" and the "last remaining segment of 'WOKE.'" He argues that museums focus excessively on negative aspects of American history, such as slavery and the struggles of marginalized groups, while neglecting themes of success, brightness, and the nation's future. Trump has directed his legal team to review museums nationwide, emulating efforts previously applied to colleges and universities, with the goal of reshaping museum narratives to emphasize American exceptionalism and positive achievements. This initiative follows a White House letter to Smithsonian Secretary Lonnie Bunch III and is part of an executive order titled "Restoring Truth and Sanity to American History," ahead of the nation's 250th anniversary. The president's campaign has faced pushback from historical and museum associations concerned about potential censorship and the undermining of museums' educational roles. Trump insists that the country "cannot be WOKE, because WOKE IS BROKE," emphasizing his desire for museums to inspire patriotism and highlight the future rather than dwelling on past injustices.