Lonnie Bunch III, the first Black secretary of the Smithsonian Institution, announced Tuesday that he will retire from his position at the end of the year, concluding a tenure marked by escalating political tensions over the portrayal of American history in the institution’s museums.
Bunch, who has led the Smithsonian since 2019, stated in a press release that he departs "with very mixed emotions and heartfelt gratitude," emphasizing his pride in the institution’s work over nearly four decades. His retirement comes as the Trump administration has intensified criticism of the Smithsonian’s leadership, accusing it of promoting a "radical ideology" that undermines a "shared American identity."
Secretary Bunch’s announcement and institutional response
Bunch, who also co-founded the National Museum of African American History and Culture, said in his statement: "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."
Chief Justice John Roberts, chancellor of the Smithsonian and a member of its Board of Regents, praised Bunch’s leadership in a separate statement, noting his "wisdom, vision and leadership" in shaping the institution’s narrative of American history. Roberts added that the Board of Regents looks forward to working with Bunch over the coming months to ensure a smooth transition.
Trump administration actions and allegations
The Trump administration has escalated its scrutiny of the Smithsonian in recent months, culminating in a White House report released two months ago that described Smithsonian officials—particularly at the National Museum of American History—as "untrustworthy radical activists." The report alleged that the institution’s leadership had failed to present American history in a manner that is "inspiring, unifying, and worthy of national pride."
In a related development, the Department of the Interior issued a letter stating that the Smithsonian’s "institutional culture may have resulted in significant violations of Federal antidiscrimination law," including claims of creating a hostile work environment and allocating opportunities based on race and ethnicity. The letter did not provide specific evidence of illegal activity.
The administration has also taken direct steps to influence the Smithsonian’s operations. Last week, the Interior Department threatened to cut off federal support to the institution, citing concerns over its presentation of history. Additionally, President Trump signed an executive order requiring signage at the National Museum of American History to warn visitors about what the administration describes as an inaccurate and partisan portrayal of history.
Context and background of the conflict
The Smithsonian Institution, which includes 21 museums, 20 libraries, and the National Zoo, has historically operated with significant autonomy from political administrations. Bunch’s leadership has been particularly notable for his role in expanding the institution’s focus on underrepresented narratives, including the history of African Americans, women, and other marginalized groups.
Bunch’s retirement announcement follows months of public and behind-the-scenes pressure from the Trump administration, which has argued that the Smithsonian’s exhibits and programming reflect a progressive bias. Critics of the administration’s approach, including museum professionals and historians, have countered that such interventions threaten the independence of cultural institutions and the integrity of historical scholarship.
In an interview with The New York Times, Bunch acknowledged the stress of the ongoing conflict, stating, "At a certain point, I'd like to wake up in the morning and not look at my cellphone." He emphasized that his decision to retire was not solely a response to the political pressure but reflected a personal milestone after decades of service.
The Smithsonian’s Board of Regents is expected to begin the process of selecting a successor in the coming months, with a transition plan to be finalized before the end of the year.