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Lonnie G. Bunch III to Retire as Smithsonian Secretary Amid Administration Criticism

Lonnie G. Bunch III announced on Tuesday that he will step down as the secretary of the Smithsonian Institution by the end of the year. Having served in the role since 2019, Bunch is the first African American and first historian to lead the institution. His retirement comes during a period of escalating tension with the administration, which has criticized the museums for adopting a radical, race-centered ideology. The administration issued an executive order in March 2025 to eliminate improper or divisive ideologies from the museum programs. Interior Secretary Doug Burgum and other officials warned that the institution could lose federal grants and artifacts if it does not address these ideological shifts. In response to these criticisms, Bunch stated that the Smithsonian is driven by scholarship and a commitment to telling the nation's story rather than political pressure. Chief Justice John Roberts, who serves as chancellor of the Smithsonian, praised Bunch for his leadership and vision. Bunch will remain in his position for three to four months to assist with the transition to new leadership.

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