Smithsonian leadership crisis and Trump museum independence attacks
One page that accretes the verified record as the story develops. Every fact keeps its date and its sources.
Supreme Court chief justice praises outgoing Smithsonian leader under Trump administration pressure
Lonnie Bunch wrote an internal email to staff acknowledging there is room for improvement but arguing the report was not a fair characterization of the work of the National Museum of American History.
Supreme Court Chief Justice John Roberts praised the outgoing head of the Smithsonian Institution, Lonnie Bunch, on his departure.
Interior Secretary Doug Burgum and White House Domestic Policy Council Director Vince Haley warned that the Smithsonian could lose access to artifacts and grants from the federal government if it continues with its current leadership.
Smithsonian Secretary Lonnie Bunch to retire amid Trump attacks on museum independence
Bunch told ABC News, 'I have fought for as long as I can.'
Raines said board members will announce an acting secretary as they begin a national search for Bunch's successor.
Franklin D. Raines is the chair of the Board of Regents.