Trump proposes smallest Smithsonian budget to fight woke ideology

Key Points:

• The Trump administration is proposing the Smithsonian's smallest budget in years, aiming to reduce its federal funding below $1 billion for the first time since 2020, as part of efforts to eliminate what it calls "woke" ideology from the institution.
• The Smithsonian's budget requests had steadily increased during the Biden administration, reaching a record $1.24 billion in fiscal year 2024, but the Trump administration's fiscal years 2026 and 2027 proposals seek significant cuts.
• Over the past 16 months, the administration has conducted an extensive review of the Smithsonian's exhibits, programming, and leadership, culminating in a 162-page report recommending major reforms to promote what it describes as a more accurate portrayal of American history.
• The Smithsonian, which manages 21 museums, the National Zoo, and millions of objects, has become a focal point in a broader national debate over patriotism, historical interpretation, and the role of federally funded cultural institutions.
• It remains uncertain whether Congress will approve the proposed budget cuts, but the administration's combined use of executive orders, reviews, and funding proposals indicates a strong intent to reshape the Smithsonian's mission and operations.