Four Democratic senators urged Smithsonian Secretary Lonnie Bunch to resist White House pressure to alter the institution's historical narratives. President Trump and the White House criticized Smithsonian exhibitions as "woke," prompting the senators' letter asserting Congress, not the White House, oversees the Smithsonian. The senators highlighted the institution's independent status and pledged to protect its funding. The Smithsonian is conducting an internal review of materials requested by the White House, aiming to maintain its independence and scholarship.

Prepared by Lauren Mitchell and reviewed by editorial team.