Smithsonian secretary Lonnie Bunch steps down amid tensions with Trump administration

Lonnie G. Bunch III, the Smithsonian Institution's secretary, will step down by the end of the year, citing mixed emotions and gratitude after 38 years with the institution. Bunch, the first Black person and first historian to lead the Smithsonian, said he felt compelled to stay to defend the institution from White House attacks but now believes it is time to assist in the transition to new leadership.

The Trump administration has criticized how the Smithsonian portrays America’s past, with Interior Secretary Doug Burgum threatening to cut off support last week, alleging a 'radical ideology' that weakens 'shared American identity.' Bunch told friends that he saw the letter from Burgum and decided it was time to step down. The regents are forming a search committee to consider inside candidates for the leadership role.

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