Smithsonian Institution Secretary Lonnie Bunch announced his retirement Tuesday, concluding a tenure marked by increasing tension with the Trump administration over the portrayal of American history within the institution's museums. Supreme Court Chief Justice John Roberts, who serves as the chancellor of the Smithsonian, commended Bunch on his departure, stating that Bunch "pursued excellence in the telling of our nation’s story" and that the institution "benefited greatly from his wisdom, vision and leadership."
Bunch, 73, had faced criticism from the White House, particularly concerning the National Museum of American History. A report released by the Trump administration in July accused the Smithsonian of becoming "subject to institutional capture by a radical, activist ideology that is fundamentally opposed to telling the noble, honest story of the great country we know and love."
In response to the criticisms, Bunch sent an internal email to staff acknowledging that there was "room for improvement" but asserting that the report did not represent a "fair characterization of the work and totality of the National Museum of American History." He emphasized the institution's commitment to scholarship, accuracy, and presenting the "fullness of America's story."
The White House had warned that the Smithsonian could risk losing access to artifacts and federal grants if it maintained its current leadership. Interior Secretary Doug Burgum and White House Domestic Policy Council Director Vince Haley sent a letter to Congress detailing concerns about ideological capture and alleged misconduct within the Smithsonian's leadership, including claims of potential violations of federal anti-discrimination law and the creation of a hostile work environment.
