Smithsonian Leadership Under Scrutiny Amid Political Tensions
Clarification of Governance and Authority
In a recent statement issued after a full-day meeting, the Smithsonian’s Board of Regents reaffirmed that all personnel decisions are under the sole authority of Secretary Lonnie G. Bunch III. This announcement comes just over a week after former President Donald Trump publicly claimed to have dismissed the director of the National Portrait Gallery, Kim Sajet. The board emphasized its support for Bunch’s leadership and management, underscoring the importance of centralized decision-making within the institution.
While the statement did not explicitly address the ongoing conflict between the White House and Sajet, it highlighted the board’s commitment to maintaining the Smithsonian’s integrity. Specifically, the regents tasked Bunch with safeguarding the museum’s independence from political influence, a move seen as a response to the heightened political climate affecting federally funded arts organizations since Trump’s return to office in January.
Ensuring Impartiality in Museum Operations
The regents directed Bunch to establish clear guidelines for museum directors and staff to ensure content remains unbiased and free from partisan bias. They also requested regular updates on personnel matters, including any necessary staffing adjustments based on progress toward these goals. The overarching aim is to reinforce the Smithsonian’s role as a neutral, scholarly institution that serves the public interest without political interference.
In their statement, the board expressed a firm commitment to preserving the Smithsonian as a “beacon of scholarship,” emphasizing that the institution must actively uphold its foundational values of objectivity and impartiality. This move is viewed as an interim measure to uphold governance standards amid ongoing political pressures.
Political Controversy and Leadership Challenges
President’s Criticism and White House Interventions
On May 30, President Trump publicly criticized Sajet, describing her as “highly partisan” and a strong advocate for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives. In a social media post announcing her dismissal, Trump cited her donations to Democratic candidates and her comments on expanding the gallery’s representation as evidence of her bias. The White House later provided The Washington Post with 17 examples purportedly supporting these claims, including her rejection of artist Julian Raven’s Trump-themed portrait for being “too political” and “too pro-Trump,” as Raven recounted in a 2019 interview.
Notably, the president did not specify any legal grounds for removing Sajet, raising questions about the legitimacy of her dismissal. This controversy has intensified concerns about political influence over the Smithsonian’s leadership.
Community Support and Demonstrations
Prior to the Board of Regents’ meeting, dozens of current and former Smithsonian staff gathered outside the National Museum of American History to show their support for Bunch and to demonstrate their commitment to the institution’s mission. The gathering was marked by cheers and signs reading “We love Lonnie,” reflecting widespread backing for the secretary’s leadership.
Bunch, visibly moved, addressed the crowd, expressing his dedication to the Smithsonian’s mission. “We are all here because we love this institution,” he said. “As long as I hold this position, I stand with you. We will continue to serve the public with integrity and excellence. Thank you for your support – it truly means a lot to me.”
Recognition of Leadership and Concerns Over Future Stability
Beth Py-Lieberman, a retired Smithsonian Magazine editor with 37 years of experience, praised Bunch’s leadership, emphasizing his deep commitment to the institution and his role in fostering a vibrant museum community. “Lonnie is a leader who embodies service to the nation,” she remarked. “He has built a museum that reflects dedication, passion, and a profound connection to the public.”
Despite this support, concerns remain about potential leadership upheavals, especially as Trump has been known to replace agency heads at cultural institutions. Critics worry that further dismissals or reshuffles could undermine the stability and independence of the Smithsonian.
White House Initiatives and Budgetary Pressures
Efforts to Reshape Cultural Institutions
In recent months, the White House has taken steps to influence the direction of major cultural organizations. These include significant budget cuts proposed for the Smithsonian, with a 12% reduction suggested in a congressional request. The proposed cuts would eliminate funding for key projects such as the Anacostia Community Museum and the upcoming National Museum of the American Latino.
This pattern of intervention extends beyond the Smithsonian. The administration has reduced staff and grants at the National Endowment for the Humanities and the National Endowment for the Arts, redirecting resources toward patriotic projects like a statuary garden and national celebrations marking the 250th anniversary of American independence. In February, President Trump also replaced board members at the Kennedy Center, installing allies and elevating his influence over the arts sector.
Executive Orders and Institutional Rebranding
In March, Trump signed an executive order aimed at removing what he termed “anti-American ideology” from Smithsonian museums, asserting a desire to restore the institution’s image as a symbol of national pride and greatness. In response, Bunch issued a memo reaffirming the Smithsonian’s commitment to its core mission of education, research, and cultural preservation, emphasizing that the institution would continue to operate with independence and integrity.
Artistic Responses and Public Demonstrations
Artist’s Protest and Advocacy
On the same day as the regents’ meeting, artist Julian Raven set up a visual protest near the Smithsonian, displaying a large flipbook of historic news stories about the institution and a life-sized reproduction of his memoir cover, “Odious and Cerberus.” The artwork depicted Raven ascending the steps of the Smithsonian’s Reynolds building, holding his Trump portrait and chains, symbolizing his ongoing struggle to have his work accepted.
Raven expressed skepticism that the regents would allow Sajet to remain in her position, suggesting that her resignation might be a strategic move to preserve funding. Despite his disillusionment with Trump after the events of January 6, 2021, Raven remains hopeful that his story will influence future decisions.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Smithsonian Leadership
As the debate continues, the Smithsonian faces a pivotal moment. The outcome of internal discussions and potential leadership changes could significantly impact the institution’s direction and its role as a nonpartisan cultural authority. The ongoing tension underscores the importance of safeguarding the Smithsonian’s independence amid political pressures, ensuring it remains a trusted space for education, history, and the arts for generations to come.
