Trump orders review of Smithsonian exhibits, targets 'divisive narratives'

President Donald Trump signed an executive order to remove what he calls 'improper ideology' from the Smithsonian Institution, placing Vice President J.D. Vance in charge of this initiative. The order criticizes the Smithsonian for adopting 'divisive narratives' that allegedly distort American history, citing specific examples from exhibits that portray traditional American values as harmful. It directs Vance to work with Congress to target funding for programs perceived as promoting these narratives and to oversee the appointment of new members to the Smithsonian Board of Regents. Trump's order also includes instructions to restore federal monuments removed during the Biden administration and to ensure that future funding avoids supporting ideologies inconsistent with federal law. Critics argue that this move is part of a broader effort to roll back diversity and inclusion initiatives established by the previous administration. The Smithsonian Institution has yet to respond to the order publicly.