Senator Lisa Murkowski, a Republican from Alaska, is taking a different path from most of her party regarding the GOP’s criticism of the Smithsonian Institution’s presentation of American history. She joined Senator Jeff Merkley, a Democrat from Oregon, in addressing concerns about President Donald Trump’s directive. This directive mandates ‘temporary signage’ outside the National Museum of American History, as Trump claims the museum presents history inaccurately with a biased viewpoint.
In their letter, Murkowski and Merkley, who hold roles as Chair and Ranking Member of the Senate Interior Appropriations Subcommittee, sought clarification from the Trump administration. They requested more details on the Department of the Interior’s (DOI) involvement in implementing Executive Order (EO) 14416, titled ‘Restoring Trust in the Smithsonian Institution.’
The letter stated, ‘We express our concern and request more information regarding the role the Department of the Interior will have in this matter.’
The executive order signed by Trump centers on the use of ‘temporary exhibits or signage on federally owned sidewalks, walkways, and land used by the public.’ These are intended to correct perceived inaccuracies in the museum’s displays. Murkowski raised questions about the precedent for using federal resources to send ‘conflicting information’ to institutions like the Smithsonian.
Some Republicans view the Smithsonian’s exhibitions as politically charged, due to its substantial $1 billion funding from Congress. The GOP’s criticism includes examples like an exhibit on Disney’s ‘Steamboat Willie,’ which some claim portrays outdated racial stereotypes. Others labeled parts of the museum’s curation as ‘anti-white’ or ‘woke.’
Murkowski countered, emphasizing the Smithsonian’s longstanding dedication to presenting an objective and inclusive historical account. In their letter to Interior Secretary Doug Burgum, she wrote, ‘The Smithsonian Institution has been committed to sharing objective historical evidence through research and education, not political narratives.’
Conservatives on the House Appropriations Committee expressed interest in imposing new restrictions on the Smithsonian’s federal funding. They suggested that failure to amend controversial displays might jeopardize its government support.
Alex Miller reports on the U.S. Senate for Fox News Digital.
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