Lonnie Bunch, Smithsonian leader, to retire amid Trump criticism

Historian Lonnie Bunch, who led the Smithsonian Institution for 38 years, announced his retirement at the end of this year, amid growing criticism from the Trump administration. Bunch, who made history as the first African American secretary of the Smithsonian, expressed a mix of emotions over his impending departure. He thanked the institution he served for nearly half of his life, while acknowledging the stress the last few years brought.

Bunch, 73, co-founded the National Museum of African American History and Culture, which opened in 2016. He was also executive director of the museum until he became secretary in 2019, becoming the first African American to hold that role in the Smithsonian's 173-year history. Chief Justice John Roberts praised Bunch's leadership in maintaining the nation's story.

The Smithsonian faced increased scrutiny from the Trump administration, which launched an internal review of eight museums in 2025, accusing some of promoting "divisive, race-centered ideology." The administration also ordered signs outside the National Museum of American History to correct what it deemed "inaccurate" information about American history. Despite the challenges, Bunch expressed confidence in the institution's future leadership.