Trump’s Warning Signs Are Coming to the Smithsonian
In a letter, Interior Secretary Doug Burgum said that visitors “should know” about a museum director’s ideological bias.
Interior Secretary Doug Burgum has revealed plans to install temporary signs outside the National Museum of American History, accusing it of ideological bias, according to a letter obtained by a reporter. The signs, estimated to cost $84,000, will be placed around the museum, with the National Park Service responsible for their creation.
The letter, sent to Senators Jeff Merkley and Lisa Murkowski, outlines the signs' content, which will highlight "important context" about exhibits and the curators' viewpoints. The letter echoes a White House report, asserting that the museum promotes "ideologies that distract from a coherent and accurate presentation of America’s story."
The administration's letter criticizes the museum's director, Anthea Hartig, and outgoing Secretary Lonnie Bunch, suggesting their comments on racial issues and historical accuracy are necessary for visitors to understand. The administration has accused the Smithsonian of lacking patriotism, while the museum maintains its commitment to scholarship, accuracy, and nonpartisanship.
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