Smithsonian Museum Faces Backlash Over Shift in Activism
On ‘The Ingraham Angle,’ host Laura Ingraham discussed how progressive curators at the Smithsonian are allegedly redefining American history through their exhibitions. Historian Dr. Jody Edward Ginn pointed out the lack of conservative viewpoints, highlighting that a recent exhibit includes three times more liberal items compared to conservative ones. Ginn expressed concerns regarding this progressive shift and its implications for the political impartiality of America’s national museums.
President Donald Trump has urged the Smithsonian to replace a long-standing modernist sculpture—known as “Infinity”—that has been outside the National Museum of American History since 1967. He criticized the sculpture for failing to represent what America is about, suggesting that a 30-foot statue of George Washington would be more fitting.
In social media posts on Friday, Trump proposed that the museum host a five-year exhibition dedicated to Washington, running through February 22, 2032, which would commemorate the 300th anniversary of America’s first president’s birth.
He emphasized the need for an 11-foot statue of Washington to be positioned in the museum’s Flag Hall by Constitution Day on September 17. This statue was displayed at a recent Freedom 250 Grand Prix race.
Trump stated, “Immediately design and display a five-year exhibition worthy of the Life, Sacrifice, and Contributions of George Washington.” He added, “Then, as soon as it is ready, install a 30-foot Washington Colossus where ‘Infinity’ stands today.”
The “Infinity” sculpture, created by New York artist José de Rivera, was commissioned by the federal government and has stood there since 1967.
It’s not entirely clear if Trump has the authority to enforce these changes at the Smithsonian, which operates independently under a Board of Regents, comprising various influential figures, including Vice President JD Vance and Chief Justice John Roberts.
Fox News Digital reached out for comments from the Smithsonian but did not receive an immediate response.
Criticism from Trump regarding the Smithsonian’s portrayal of American history has intensified as the nation approaches its 250th anniversary. He has been vocal about what he sees as insufficient recognition of Washington and other Founding Fathers by the National Museum of American History.
In his posts, he specifically pointed to Washington’s crossing of the Delaware River on Christmas night in 1776, arguing that such pivotal events are not adequately acknowledged at the museum.
“He is easily America’s Greatest Hero,” Trump said. “Without him, our Country and our Freedoms wouldn’t exist.”
Trump has also criticized the Smithsonian’s now-defunct Center for Restorative History, which aimed to highlight overlooked stories in the national narrative. He suggested that the institution should establish a “Center for American Heroes” to tell the inspiring tales of Americans who faced adversity and achieved greatness.
This mounting criticism has spurred action from the White House as well. In March 2025, Trump signed an executive order targeting what his administration called “divisive narratives” at the Smithsonian.
In July, he directed his administration to post signs outside the National Museum of American History indicating that some exhibits may contain inaccuracies. The Smithsonian’s Board of Regents stated its commitment to maintaining a nonpartisan stance and ensuring museum content is free from partisan bias.
Recently, Smithsonian secretary Lonnie Bunch announced he would be stepping down at the end of the year.
