Smithsonian Secretary Lonnie Bunch III announced on September 8, 2026, that he will be retiring from his position. Bunch, who is 73 years old, is the first Black leader of the Smithsonian Institution and the founder of the National Museum of African American History and Culture. His decision to step down comes amid ongoing disputes between the Smithsonian and the Trump administration regarding the portrayal of American history by the museum complex.
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Smithsonian Secretary Lonnie Bunch III Announces Retirement
Lonnie Bunch III, the first Black Secretary of the Smithsonian Institution, announced his retirement on September 8, 2026. His departure follows disputes with the Trump administration concerning the museum's representation of American history.
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Smithsonian leader Lonnie Bunch to retire as Trump targets institution
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Smithsonian Secretary Lonnie Bunch III Announces Retirement