Trump threatens to cut Smithsonian federal ties over anti-Americanism claims

The Trump administration has threatened to cut federal agency support for the Smithsonian, citing alleged anti-Americanism and diversity practices, in its latest escalation against the cultural institution. Interior Secretary Doug Burgum and White House official Vince Haley sent a letter to the Smithsonian's governing board, stating agencies cannot support the institution under current leadership. The letter alleged potential breaches of anti-discrimination laws and requested a meeting with administration officials. The Smithsonian, which operates 21 museums and the National Zoo, made no immediate comment. Trump has previously threatened to eliminate federal funding and directed signs be placed outside the National Museum of American History. Historians and civil rights advocates have criticized the actions, warning they risk eroding acknowledgment of critical U.S. history phases.