Most Americans do not support President Donald Trump’s plan to review exhibits at the Smithsonian Institution, according to a recent Quinnipiac University poll. The survey found that 60% of respondents are against the Trump administration conducting a “comprehensive internal review” of museum displays, while 33% support it and 7% remain unsure.
The poll, conducted from August 21 to August 25 with a sample of 1,220 registered voters and a margin of error of 3.4 percentage points, shows opinions split along party lines. Among Democrats, 94% oppose the review. Sixty-six percent of independents also disagree with the proposal. In contrast, 68% of Republicans expressed support for Trump’s plan.
The issue began on August 12 when the White House announced its intention to lead an internal assessment of certain Smithsonian exhibits. The administration said this was aimed at ensuring museums promote American exceptionalism and avoid partisan perspectives.
A week later, President Trump criticized the Smithsonian in a post on Truth Social: “The Smithsonian is OUT OF CONTROL, where everything discussed is how horrible our Country is, how bad Slavery was, and how unaccomplished the downtrodden have been — Nothing about Success, nothing about Brightness, nothing about the Future.”
On August 21, the White House released a document titled “President Trump Is Right About the Smithsonian.” The statement objected to specific displays such as artwork depicting a family crossing the southern border illegally and an animation featuring Anthony Fauci.
Some Democratic officials responded critically to Trump’s proposed review. Rep. Chellie Pingree from Maine wrote in an August 15 letter: “In a democracy, one person does not rule our thoughts, values, and beliefs, nor dictate how history should be recorded and interpreted,” she stated. “I strongly urge you to rescind this proposed review and instead work to advance the curatorial independence that has served the Smithsonian Institution well for over 175 years and made it an Institution the public can trust.”
Minnesota Governor Tim Walz also weighed in via X: “If you’re trying to erase history, you’re on the wrong side of it.”