The Smithsonian Institution has received more than $1 billion annually in taxpayer funding in recent times. This funding comes amidst increasing scrutiny regarding its leadership and exhibits focusing on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) priorities, along with ideological portrayals of American history.
As the world’s largest museum, education, and research complex, the Smithsonian oversees 21 museums, the National Zoo, and nearly 157 million objects and specimens. The Trump administration’s budget proposals aimed to reduce its federal funding, making finances a key issue in efforts to reshape this taxpayer-supported institution.
A report released by the White House in July 2026 accused the Smithsonian of promoting DEI and left-wing agendas. Fox News Digital has highlighted several instances, including the America 250 exhibit’s focus on liberal figures and causes, suggesting an ideologically skewed portrayal of American history.
Critiques also emerged over a museum training guide linking objectivity and merit to “white dominant culture,” which the Smithsonian later apologized for amid public backlash. Smithsonian Secretary Lonnie Bunch III faced scrutiny for emphasizing DEI in museums, receiving over $4.4 million in salary and benefits between 2020 and 2024.
The White House’s proposed funding cuts resulted from a comprehensive review guided by President Trump. This resulted in a 162-page report recommending extensive reforms and executive actions.
Although the Smithsonian also secures private donations, grants, and other funding, it’s heavily reliant on taxpayer money, receiving over $1 billion per year recently. This dependence on taxpayer funds has entwined the Smithsonian’s budget with debates on its portrayal of American history.
The Smithsonian is central to the White House’s campaign to change its depiction of American history. Under Biden, the Smithsonian’s federal budget requests increased from $960 million in 2019 to a record $1.24 billion in 2024.
After over $1 billion was requested for fiscal year 2025, the Trump administration proposed lower budget requests for 2026 and 2027, making them the first under $1 billion since 2020.
The Smithsonian’s funding primarily supports its daily operations, with over $524 million dedicated towards staff, security, facilities, and technology. Another significant portion, $310 million, is allocated for museum activities and research, leaving the remainder for building improvements and oversight.
Funding allocation varies across Smithsonian museums. The National Museum of Natural History is set to receive $51 million in 2026, leading other museums in funding. The National Museum of the American Indian and the National Zoo follow with nearly $35 million and $34 million respectively, while the National Museum of American History receives $27 million.
With approximately $1 billion in proposed federal funding in play, the Smithsonian stands at the center of debates about American historical narratives and the use of taxpayer dollars. The Smithsonian Institution has not yet responded to requests for comments from Fox News Digital.
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