Trump escalates Smithsonian attack with order for signs outside history museum

Key Points:

• Former President Donald Trump ordered the Interior Department to place signs outside the Smithsonian National Museum of American History accusing the institution of inaccuracy and politicization.
• The directive instructs Interior Secretary Doug Burgum and others to create temporary signs criticizing the museum for focusing too much on injustices in American history rather than celebratory events like the Declaration of Independence.
• The signs are intended to inform visitors that museum exhibits should be renovated per a White House report and to direct them to alternative sources for American history information.
• The American Historical Association condemned political interference in museum work, emphasizing the importance of scholarly integrity and warning it undermines public trust.
• Smithsonian museum director Anthea Hartig defended the institution's approach in congressional hearings, stating that presenting a full and truthful history honors American ideals and supports progress toward a more perfect union.