Trump administration plans ideological warning signs for Smithsonian

Key Points:

• The Trump Administration plans to install a dozen temporary signs at Smithsonian museum sites in Washington, D.C., warning visitors that the Smithsonian and the National Museum of American History have shifted from accurate historical storytelling to promoting "personal, radical ideologies."
• Interior Secretary Doug Burgum sent letters to Senators Lisa Murkowski and Jeff Merkley criticizing Smithsonian leadership for alleged ideological bias, including claims that exhibits promote social justice agendas, support illegal immigration, and present views on sex that contradict biology.
• The signs, estimated to cost about $84,000 total, will be placed on National Park Service land and reflect President Trump's executive order aimed at "Restoring Trust in the Smithsonian Institution."
• Smithsonian Secretary Lonnie Bunch, who announced his retirement effective at the end of the year, strongly refuted the administration's accusations, emphasizing the institution's commitment to scholarship and telling the full story of America.
• Senator Jeff Merkley condemned the administration's actions as an attempt to undermine the Smithsonian's independence, pledging to protect the institution's integrity and its role in presenting America's history.