How Trump’s Culture War Derailed a New Smithsonian Museum
Republicans wanted to narrow the scope of the Women’s History Museum and give the president power over its location. The attempt failed.
TL;DR
- The White House has previously attempted to influence Smithsonian exhibitions through various strategies.
- House Republicans introduced an amendment to the Smithsonian American Women's History Museum Act, giving President Trump final authority over the museum's location and prohibiting the inclusion of transgender women.
- This amendment was reportedly made with "technical assistance" from the White House.
- The amended bill failed in the House of Representatives due to opposition from Democrats and six Republicans.
- The museum's development has faced internal challenges, including the departure of its directors.
- The article contrasts the current political interference with the museum's past bipartisan support and unanimous recommendation for creation.
- The proposed museum is currently in legislative purgatory, alongside the National Museum of the American Latino.