Summary
Lonnie Bunch announced he will retire as secretary of the Smithsonian at the end of the year after 38 years with the institution. His retirement follows months of criticism from President Trump's administration toward the Smithsonian, but Bunch said the decision was his own and not because of the conflicts.Key Facts
- Lonnie Bunch has worked at the Smithsonian for 38 years and became its secretary in 2019.
- He was the first African American to serve as secretary of the Smithsonian in its 173-year history.
- Bunch co-founded the National Museum of African American History and Culture, which opened in 2016.
- President Trump's administration increased criticism of the Smithsonian starting with his second term in 2025.
- The administration ordered an internal review and demanded changes to remove "improper ideology" from Smithsonian museums.
- Trump signed an executive order and ordered signs correcting information at the National Museum of American History.
- Interior Secretary Doug Burgum accused the Smithsonian of promoting a "radical institutional ideology" that harms American identity.
- Chief Justice John Roberts praised Bunch’s leadership and said the Smithsonian will ensure a smooth transition after Bunch’s retirement.
