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Smithsonian Secretary Lonnie Bunch is leaving amid fights with Trump
NBC News • • general
Key Points:
- Lonnie G. Bunch III announced he will step down as head of the Smithsonian Institution by the end of the year, concluding a 38-year career at the organization.
- His departure comes amid tensions with the Trump administration, which has criticized the Smithsonian's portrayal of American history and threatened to cut support over alleged promotion of "radical ideology."
- Bunch, the first Black person and first historian to lead the Smithsonian, became secretary in 2019 and expressed pride and gratitude for his time leading the institution.
- Chief Justice John Roberts praised Bunch’s leadership and contributions, highlighting his role in telling the nation's story and his service as founding director of the National Museum of African American History and Culture.
- The Smithsonian’s board and leadership plan to work with Bunch to ensure a smooth transition to his successor.
