Smithsonian chief Lonnie Bunch announces departure

Lonnie Bunch, the Smithsonian Institution's secretary and first Black leader, announced on Tuesday that he would be retiring after months of facing accusations from the Trump administration. The administration had criticized the national museums Bunch led for presenting a skewed and divisive version of US history. Bunch, a historian, curator, and author, had been leading the Smithsonian since 2019 and oversaw 21 museums, galleries, libraries, a zoo, and various research centers.

He took the role after establishing the Smithsonian's popular National Museum of African American History and Culture, which has faced criticism from conservatives. During his tenure, Bunch navigated a strained relationship with the Trump administration, which increased pressure on him and the Smithsonian. In a statement, Bunch said it was time for his next chapter, allowing him to protect the Smithsonian's integrity and champion a history that illuminates and celebrates the complex story of the nation.

The New York Times reported that Bunch acknowledged the strain of the role but denied that the White House pressure led to his departure, stating he hoped to wake up one day without constantly checking his cellphone.