Lonnie G. Bunch III, who has led the Smithsonian since 2019, resigned amid sustained pressure from President Trump’s administration. Trump criticized the institution for insufficient celebration of American history, calling Bunch a "rabid partisan" and demanding changes to exhibits.

Though Bunch announced his resignation, the administration’s broader demands—such as replacing "divisive" language and installing warning signs at the National Museum of American History—have largely gone unrealized. Bunch navigated the attacks by making concessions without compromising institutional autonomy, preserving the Smithsonian’s independence despite executive orders targeting race-related programming. His tenure, spanning nearly 40 years and including his historic role as the first Black secretary, was viewed by supporters as a defense of institutional integrity.

The administration had previously forced the resignation of the National Portrait Gallery director and sought to alter wall text referencing Trump’s impeachments. Despite executive orders and social media attacks, the Smithsonian’s core exhibitions remained largely unchanged, with the fast-moving news cycle diverting presidential focus. Bunch’s measured responses contrasted with Trump’s rhetoric, and the Board of Regents endorsed a review of content for bias—showing resilience against political pressure.