Smithsonian chief Lonnie Bunch to leave amid Trump administration pressure
Bunch’s planned departure follows political demands over the Smithsonian’s presentation of US history, racism, colonialism and diversity initiatives.
Smithsonian Institution Secretary Lonnie Bunch has announced he will leave his position by the end of 2026, after reported pressure from the Trump administration over the institution’s leadership and museum content.
Bunch said on Tuesday he was leaving with confidence in the Smithsonian’s future and would continue to defend the integrity of its account of US history. The announcement did not specify his final date or identify a successor.
The Smithsonian, which oversees major museums and research centres, has faced criticism from the Trump administration and conservative opponents over its treatment of racism, colonialism and other aspects of US history. The administration has also targeted diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives and alleged institutional bias.
Although the Smithsonian is not under direct presidential authority, much of its budget comes from the federal government. The administration has threatened that funding and demanded changes to leadership and content, including reviews of exhibitions and social media material.
Bunch became secretary in 2019, becoming the first African American to lead the 180-year-old institution. He previously directed the National Museum of African American History and Culture, one of the museums overseen by the Smithsonian.
The departure leaves the institution facing a leadership transition while it manages the competing demands of federal funding and independence from political interference.
