Trump Administration Proposes Budget Cuts for Smithsonian Amid Ideological Review

The Trump administration has proposed a budget for the Smithsonian Institution that is below $1 billion for the first time since fiscal year 2020. This proposal comes as part of a broader initiative to eliminate what the administration describes as 'woke' ideology from federally funded museums and programs. A review of Smithsonian budget requests shows that funding requests increased from $1.11 billion in fiscal year 2021 to $1.24 billion in fiscal year 2024 under the Biden administration. The proposed budget cuts for fiscal years 2026 and 2027 suggest a significant shift in funding priorities. The administration has conducted a comprehensive review of the Smithsonian's exhibits, programming, and leadership, resulting in a 162-page report that recommends reforms aimed at changing the institution's portrayal of American history. The Smithsonian, which oversees 21 museums and the National Zoo, receives over $1 billion in federal funding annually, supplemented by private donations.