Smithsonian Director Lonnie Bunch Announces Retirement Amid Federal Review

Lonnie Bunch, who has led the Smithsonian Institution since 2019, said in a Tuesday news release that he will step down at the end of the year, expressing "mixed emotions and heartfelt gratitude." His departure follows a White House report that criticized leaders of the Smithsonian, particularly at the National Museum of American History, labeling them as radical activists.

The report, issued by the Domestic Policy Council, argued that the museum’s presentations do not convey history in a way that is "inspiring, unifying, and worthy of our great republic." In response, museum director Anthea M. Hartig told lawmakers that the report "does not fairly or accurately characterize the full body of work at the museum."

The administration has also ordered signage at the U.S. history museum indicating that some exhibits are inaccurate, and it has directed a broad review of Smithsonian content ahead of the nation’s 250th anniversary. The review, outlined in a letter to Bunch, calls for an assessment of tone, historical framing, and alignment with American ideals across exhibitions, social media, and educational materials.

Smithsonian Board of Regents members, including Vice President JD Vance and Chief Justice John Roberts, oversee the institution. Roberts, who serves as the museum’s chancellor, praised Bunch for "pursuing excellence in the telling of our nation’s story."

Bunch is slated to speak on September 25 at the National Museum of African American History and Culture in an event titled “Understanding America: 10 Years of Excellence.” A Smithsonian spokesperson confirmed his participation.

Senator Alex Padilla, a Democrat from California, issued a statement honoring Bunch’s commitment to preserving American history, noting that the responsibility now rests with the Board of Regents and Congress to sustain his work.