Trump Executive Order Forces Smithsonian to Post Warning Signs at National Museum of American History
On July 25, 2026, President Donald Trump enacted an executive order requiring the National Museum of American History to place warnings about "inaccurate information" within its displays. This directive cites a 162-page report from the White House titled "Restoring Truth and Sanity to American History," which claims museum director Anthea M. Hartig exhibits political bias. The warnings will recommend that exhibitions "should be renewed" and guide visitors to more accurate historical accounts. This decision follows congressional hearings where Hartig was questioned regarding the alleged bias. Additionally, the order assigns key officials the responsibility of "restoring trust in the Smithsonian Institution," which depends on federal funding for 60% of its budget and faces possible cuts amid ongoing conflicts with the Trump administration.
Key facts
- Trump signed executive order on July 25, 2026
- Order requires warning signs at National Museum of American History
- Signs cite 162-page White House report 'Restoring Truth and Sanity to American History'
- Report accused director Anthea M. Hartig of 'extreme political activism'
- Hartig faced two congressional hearings on alleged political bias
- Order tasks Interior Secretary, OMB director, and domestic policy assistant with oversight
- Smithsonian receives about 60% of funding from federal budget
- Order references March 2025 executive order on American history
Entities
Institutions
- National Museum of American History
- Smithsonian Institution
- Domestic Policy Council
- Office of Management and Budget
- New York Times
Locations
- United States
- Washington, D.C.
Sources
- Artslife —