The Daily The Push to Revise American History at the Smithsonian
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Sep 3, 2025 
In this discussion, culture reporter Robin Pogrebin explores the Trump administration's push to reshape the Smithsonian's exhibits, stirring the waters of American history and cultural representation. She highlights the intense clash over narrative control, revealing how political pressures led to self-censorship within the institution. Pogrebin also examines critical historical themes, such as slavery and immigration, and the ongoing struggle museums face in balancing educational integrity with external influences. It's a riveting look at the battle for America's cultural storytelling.
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Smithsonian As America's Attic
- The Smithsonian is both symbolically powerful and practically influential as "America's Attic."
- Its collections shape national memory because millions visit its free museums on the National Mall.
Federal Funding, Institutional Independence
- The Smithsonian receives the majority of its budget from federal funding yet operates independently.
- Curators and directors traditionally control exhibits, not the government, creating tension when politics intervene.
Kennedy Center Precedent
- The Kennedy Center was the administration's first major cultural intervention, targeting programming it labeled "woke."
- The White House removed board appointees and installed loyalists to reshape leadership and programming.