The Trump administration is scrutinizing the Smithsonian Institution, accusing it of using federal funding to push “one-sided, divisive political narratives” that do not properly represent American history. White House official Lindsey Halligan criticized the National Museum of American History’s Entertainment Nation exhibit, which has faced backlash for its politically charged depiction of American pop culture. Halligan emphasized that taxpayer resources should not support institutions that undermine American values, insisting that history should be presented accurately and balanced.
Specific examples from the exhibit have drawn particular ire, such as a placard suggesting that circuses exemplified a colonial mindset and another asserting that violence was a cornerstone of early American entertainment. The exhibition interprets iconic cultural figures through a critical lens; for instance, it reinterprets Mickey Mouse’s debut as reflective of societal anxieties concerning moral codes and community ties, linking the character to historical blackface minstrel performances. These interpretations aim to frame American culture as imperialistic or violent, a perspective the administration argues fails to honor the nation’s achievements.
Halligan announced a thorough review of the Smithsonian’s content to ensure alignment with American foundational principles, indicating that senior leadership and the Board of Regents would be involved. She stated the goal of the review is to present stories that celebrate American heroes and avoid promoting ideologies that could be seen as extremist or activist. The Smithsonian has acknowledged ongoing efforts to assess its content rigorously, asserting its commitment to unbiased presentation and historical accuracy.
This controversy unfolds within a broader agenda by President Trump to reform cultural institutions perceived as leaning too far left. Back in March, Trump signed an executive order mandating the Board of Regents to eliminate what he termed “improper, divisive” ideologies from Smithsonian displays, critiquing these institutions for what he sees as a revisionist approach to American history that diminishes the nation’s achievements. The Board of Regents includes key governmental figures and citizen appointees, emphasizing the administration’s intent to exert substantial influence over cultural narratives.
The Entertainment Nation exhibit, which debuted in December 2022, aims to explore the interplay between popular culture and American identity but is criticized by the Trump administration for allegedly perpetuating ideological biases. The administration contends that such portrayals do not resonate with traditional American values and serve instead as instruments for social change that detract from national pride. Halligan voiced the administration’s desire for a Smithsonian that accurately reflects and celebrates the greatness of America rather than one that fosters dissenting opinions.
In the wake of this ongoing discourse, the Smithsonian’s response highlighted its commitment to continuous scholarly assessment and research to uphold its standards. However, it refrained from specifying who crafted the exhibit or whether it engaged outside consultants. As the review progresses, the institution has reiterated that it aims for unbiased content while also navigating the demands of federal oversight and public expectation in presenting American history.
