In his first six weeks as president, Trump took significant steps to reshape American arts and cultural institutions, particularly in Washington, D.C.
His administration reduced funding for arts programs, positioned himself as head of the Kennedy Center, and tried to remove the director of the Smithsonian Association’s museum.
Not all controversies stem directly from actions taken by the White House, but rather reflect the broader tensions within the arts community. Some artists and museum officials have expressed concern about governmental pushback.
Recently, reports surfaced that the Smithsonian National Museum of American History had omitted references to Trump from an exhibit following an internal content review.
After initial reports, the Smithsonian indicated it would update the exhibit to include information about Trump.
There are several noted conflicts between Trump and various national arts institutions.
Executive Order Target: “Splitting Story”
A March executive order accused the Smithsonian of promoting what was termed “divisible, racially ideological” practices and described methods for the White House to withdraw funding from programs deemed unacceptable.
This order suggested that a historical revision was taking place, portraying America’s legacy of freedom and individual rights as inherently flawed. It described the changes as fostering a harmful narrative about American values.
Vice President JD Vance noted that the order aimed to ensure future Congressional budgets align with these sentiments, stating it prohibits funding for programs that diminish shared American values or promote divisive ideologies.
While some Smithsonian programs might still align with the executive order, observers have noted it signals an intention to scrutinize arts institutions closely.
Trump Installed as Kennedy Center Head
In February, Trump appointed himself as chairman of the Kennedy Center, asserting significant influence over the performing arts venue by appointing associates to the board, including his Chief of Staff and the Attorney General.
After visiting the center in March, Trump criticized its state, claiming it required “a tremendous fix.”
Reports later indicated a notable drop in subscriptions and revenues, although the center disputed these claims.
Some Congressional Republicans have even suggested renaming parts of the Kennedy Center after Trump or First Lady Melania Trump.
Portrait Gallery Head Resigns After Trump’s “Firing”
In May, Trump announced he had fired Kim Sadgett, the head of the National Portrait Gallery, calling him “very partisan.” However, it remains unclear if he had the legal authority to do so, as the Smithsonian asserted it made personnel decisions independently.
Sadgett eventually resigned, stating it was the “best way to serve an institution” that he cared about deeply.
A controversy erupted in July when artist Amy Sherald withdrew from a show, citing concerns about censorship. She claimed the museum pressured her to alter her work featuring transgender women.
The Smithsonian maintained that staff suggested enhancements rather than outright changes to the painting.
Management Target NEA Grant
Across the country, museums and art groups reported losing grants from the National Endowment for the Arts, the largest federal arts funding agency.
The May budget proposal anticipates cuts across various institutions, including the US Institute of Peace and US Global Media Agency.
Prior to the grants being slashed, several arts organizations filed a lawsuit against the NEA regarding Trump’s executive order barring funding for “gender ideology” promotion.
The White House Calls for Smithsonian Budget Cuts
The White House has requested a 12% cut to the Smithsonian’s budget, stirring concerns among some Republican lawmakers.
Trump’s budget proposal does not include funds for establishing a National Museum of Latinos in America, despite earlier endorsements during his first term.
Ultimately, while Congress controls funding levels for the Smithsonian, the proposed cuts have raised alarms among some lawmakers, leading to ongoing debates about the president’s broader budget initiatives.
