Smithsonian Museum faces backlash over activism shift
On “The Ingraham Angle,” Laura Ingraham highlighted concerns from conservatives about the people shaping controversial Smithsonian exhibits. Historian Dr. Jody Edward Ginn joined the program to weigh in on claims of political bias and the lack of right-leaning viewpoints in America’s national museums.
The Smithsonian Institution’s top official revealed Tuesday that he plans to retire, a major leadership change that comes as the museum network faces intensifying scrutiny from the Trump administration over its management and cultural direction.
Lonnie Bunch III, who became Smithsonian secretary in 2019 after serving as the founding director of the National Museum of African American History and Culture, said he intends to step away from the role before the end of the year.
“It is with very mixed emotions and heartfelt gratitude that I announce my retirement from the Smithsonian,” Bunch said in a press release. “I have spent nearly half of my life working at and being part of the Smithsonian family, and what a privilege it has been. There is no place like the Smithsonian — it has been one of the great loves of my life, and I am extraordinarily proud of what we have accomplished together.”
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Lonnie Bunch III is seen speaking at the Smithsonian Latino Museum Reception on June 16, 2022, in Washington, D.C. (Photo by Tasos Katopodis/Getty Images for Smithsonian Latino Museum)
“I leave with pride and sadness, gratitude and joy, and with enormous confidence in the people who will carry this remarkable institution forward,” he added.
This is a developing news story; check back for updates.