Trump Targets ‘Woke’ History at Smithsonian Ahead of America’s 250th

President Donald Trump is putting the nation’s most prestigious museums under the microscope — and he’s making it clear that he doesn’t want “woke” history on display when America turns 250.

The president announced Thursday that the Smithsonian Institution will undergo a sweeping review of exhibits, events, and even social media posts to ensure what he calls a “fair and accurate” portrayal of the country’s past. The move comes as the U.S. prepares for its semiquincentennial in 2026.

“Our museums have an obligation to represent what happened in our country over the years — good and bad — but in an accurate way,” Trump told reporters outside the White House. “We want history told fairly. Not in a woke manner. Not in a racist manner. And not in a way that tears down the country we love.”

The Review Plan

The White House letter sent to Smithsonian leadership on Tuesday outlines a high-level audit of exhibition texts, educational materials, and online content. Officials say the review will check for “tone, historical framing, and alignment with American ideals.”

“The goal is to celebrate American exceptionalism, remove divisive or partisan narratives, and restore confidence in our shared cultural institutions,” the letter states.

The process will focus on flagship institutions like the National Museum of American History, the National Museum of African American History and Culture, the National Museum of the American Indian, and the National Air and Space Museum — along with several others, including the Smithsonian American Art Museum and the National Portrait Gallery.

Political Heat

Trump’s deputy chief of staff, Stephen Miller, blasted what he called left-wing infiltration of the Smithsonian.

“The Smithsonian is supposed to be a global symbol of American strength, culture, and prestige,” Miller posted on X. “Instead, the exhibits have been hijacked by activists who bash America and rewrite our magnificent story. The Trump administration will restore the patriotic glory of this institution and inspire love for this nation — especially among our youngest citizens.”

The Smithsonian responded in a statement saying its mission remains “grounded in scholarly excellence, rigorous research, and the accurate, factual presentation of history.”

Vance’s Role in the Culture Battle

This isn’t the first time Trump has taken aim at museum content. In March, he signed an executive order putting Vice President JD Vance in charge of removing programs or displays that “degrade shared American values” or “divide Americans based on race.”

Vance quickly made waves. In June, artist Amy Sherald canceled her scheduled September exhibit at the National Portrait Gallery after Vance objected to what he described as “woke and divisive” content — including a painting of a transgender Statue of Liberty.

“The Smithsonian belongs to the American people,” Vance said at the time. “Its role is to inspire unity, not push political agendas.”

America 250 on the Horizon

The semiquincentennial, also known as America 250, will be a year-long celebration culminating on July 4, 2026. Past milestone anniversaries have included major public displays, historical reenactments, and national projects. Trump’s team says the Smithsonian review is part of a broader push to ensure the celebration is “rooted in pride, not politics.”

As Trump put it: “We’re going to tell America’s story in the way it should be told — truthfully, proudly, and without apology.”