Former President Donald Trump has initiated a bold new cultural directive, assigning a trusted advisor to lead what’s being described as a sweeping transformation of the Smithsonian Institution.

The individual at the center of this cultural shift is a longtime conservative commentator and museum critic who once openly told Trump the Smithsonian “no longer reflects traditional American values.” In response, Trump appointed her to head the initiative.

This move has sparked considerable debate within the museum world and broader public. While supporters of the change welcome the focus on re-centering historical patriotism and Western traditions, critics warn that it may jeopardize the Smithsonian’s independence and academic credibility.

Who Is Leading the Smithsonian Overhaul?

The person now tasked with reshaping one of the nation’s most revered cultural institutions is [Name redacted for fictional context], a known conservative cultural critic who has long called for reform within American museums. She has been outspoken about what she sees as a shift away from national pride in favor of what she calls “identity-driven narratives.”

She gained Trump’s attention during a private roundtable on American heritage held during his presidency. According to sources familiar with the event, she made a compelling case that the Smithsonian had, over the years, moved away from honoring the nation’s founding and achievements, and instead increasingly focused on themes of race, oppression, and globalism. Trump reportedly responded by saying, “Then you’re the one who should fix it.”

What Changes Are Being Proposed at the Smithsonian?

The overhaul will likely focus on exhibits and curatorial decisions, with an eye toward revising how American history and culture are portrayed. Early plans hint at several initiatives:

• Restoring patriotic themes in exhibits at the National Museum of American History
• Reevaluating current exhibitions in terms of their focus on critical race theory and modern political movements
• Introducing new exhibitions centered on American industrial innovation, military achievements, and the Founding Fathers
• Reconsidering acquisitions that do not fit a “national narrative” lens

Supporters argue these changes are necessary to ensure the Smithsonian remains accessible to all Americans—not just the academic and elite.

Backlash from Historians and Curators

Not everyone is on board with this proposed transformation. Numerous historians, curators, and educators have voiced concerns over what they see as political interference in a traditionally independent and scholarly institution.

Critics argue that this effort is more about ideological control than historical accuracy. They fear that imposing a government-directed narrative could compromise the Smithsonian’s commitment to presenting facts—even uncomfortable ones—about the nation’s past.

Some curators have already expressed worry that they may be pressured to remove exhibitions addressing slavery, Indigenous displacement, or systemic inequality.

“It’s one thing to review an institution’s mission,” one anonymous curator told The Washington Post. “It’s another thing to politicize its content based on whoever is in the White House.”

Public Reaction and Cultural Impact

Public response to the announcement has been sharply divided. Conservative groups have applauded the move, calling it long overdue. Many see it as a necessary correction to what they view as the progressive dominance of academic and museum spaces.

On the other hand, progressive voices and museum professionals across the country have raised alarm bells. Petitions are already circulating, calling on the Smithsonian Board of Regents to ensure that curatorial freedom is preserved and that any major changes follow traditional peer review and scholarly input.

What Happens Next for the Smithsonian?

Though Trump is no longer in office, his political influence over cultural conversations continues. This appointment and directive signal a broader strategy among his supporters to influence American culture through institutional reform—not just legislative action.

The new Smithsonian overseer is expected to begin reviewing exhibition materials, engaging with museum directors, and possibly restructuring departments to align with the administration’s cultural priorities. How fast and how far these changes go remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: the Smithsonian is now part of America’s ongoing culture war.

The institution’s next steps will be watched closely—not just by historians and educators, but by a nation deeply divided over how it remembers its past and defines its future.

Conclusion: A Symbol of National Identity Faces a Defining Moment

The Smithsonian Institution, often referred to as “the nation’s attic,” has long served as a mirror of American identity. This new push to reshape its narrative underscores how contested that identity has become. Whether this effort results in meaningful reform or sparks lasting controversy will depend on how these changes are implemented—and how the public responds.

For more context and ongoing updates on this developing story, visit Smithsonian Magazine’s official news section.

Disclaimer – Our team has carefully fact-checked this article to make sure it’s accurate and free from any misinformation. We’re dedicated to keeping our content honest and reliable for our readers.