Smithsonian Director Defends Museum Against White House Woke Claims

Director Anthea M. Hartig testified before a House Oversight subcommittee on July 21, 2026, rejecting a White House report that labeled the National Museum of American History's leadership as radical activists. The July 4 report from the White House Domestic Policy Council accused the museum of extreme political activism and promoting a radical view of history, specifically citing transgender activism and a lack of exhibits dedicated to the Founding Fathers.

The conflict stems from a March 2025 executive order by President Donald Trump titled Restoring Truth and Sanity to American History, which directed Vice President J.D. Vance to remove improper ideology from Smithsonian institutions. During the hearing, Republican lawmakers criticized exhibits as woke, with Representative Nancy Mace questioning the use of BDSM imagery and Representative Tim Burchett claiming the museum presents history as a power struggle between oppressors and the oppressed.

Hartig defended the museum's approach, stating the institution does not take sides in political debates and seeks to add marginalized voices rather than erase history. While Smithsonian Secretary Lonnie Bunch disputed the White House findings in an internal letter, Hartig faced questions regarding her job security. She is scheduled for a second hearing before the Committee on House Administration on Wednesday.