Raskin seeks to preserve Trump's D.C. "propaganda" in Smithsonian

Rep. Jamie Raskin (D-Md.) introduced a bill on Wednesday aiming to have the Smithsonian preserve and showcase artifacts that Raskin claims represent the growth of government propaganda during President Trump's tenure. The bill is unlikely to pass given the Republican control of Congress, but it may provide a glimpse into how Democrats might evaluate the president's use of taxpayer funds to promote his image if they regain power in November.

Trump's efforts to shape the physical and cultural landscape of Washington D.C. in his likeness can be observed through banners displaying his face on government buildings and attempts to rename institutions in his honor. Last month, the administration unveiled plans to display signs warning of the Smithsonian's leaders propagating "personal, radical ideologies."

Raskin's legislation directs the Smithsonian's secretary to acquire and exhibit Trump's expansive portraits displayed outside of federal agencies at the Museum of American History. The bill also calls for preserving signage or artifacts tied to Trump's planned warning signs accusing the museum of "Ideological Capture." The proposed exhibit would include accounts from individuals who opposed the escalation of authoritarianism during Trump's time in office.

It also suggests signage stating, "Donald Trump ordered the installation of these signs without any Congressional authorization as required by the Constitution."

Raskin commented, "Unlike President Trump's project of censoring, whitewashing and fictionalizing American history, my legislation will forever preserve his manifestations of authoritarian narcissism and his propagandistic assault on American history and American democracy." The White House has not yet responded to a request for comment from Axios.

The Smithsonian has faced scrutiny throughout President Trump's residency in the White House and amid his government-wide initiative to purge what they call "woke ideology." Smithsonian Secretary Lonnie Bunch announced his retirement after more than three decades at the world's largest museum, education, and research complex. The next leader of the institution will likely manage ongoing pressure from Trump and react to the consequences that follow.