President Donald Trump has repeatedly criticized the Smithsonian Institution, a federal agency that operates 19 museums and galleries across the United States. In July 2026, Trump tweeted that he would "cancel" funding to the Smithsonian, which he claimed was not aligned with his conservative agenda. [1] This stance is in stark contrast to previous administrations, who have often praised the institution for its educational value and commitment to preserving American history and culture. Critics argue that Trump's attacks are an attempt to diminish the influence of government-funded cultural institutions, potentially eroding their role as repositories of historical knowledge. [2] The Smithsonian has responded by emphasizing its mission to educate the public about America’s diverse heritage and scientific discoveries. They have defended themselves against Trump's criticisms, stating that they operate independently from political interference and are dedicated to providing accurate information to the American people. [3] Other media outlets have echoed these sentiments, noting that Trump's actions could be seen as an attempt to undermine the Smithsonian's authority and its ability to serve as a reliable source of historical information. [1] has also reported on similar criticisms from other political figures who view the institution as overly liberal or biased.