Senator Hawley calls for sweeping overhaul of Smithsonian leadership
Sen. Josh Hawley accused the Smithsonian’s top officials of anti-American bias and urged their removal during a televised interview.
During a Monday appearance on a cable news program, Senator Josh Hawley denounced the Smithsonian Institution’s leadership, asserting that its officials foster anti-American sentiment. He referenced Anthea Hartig and former director Lonnie Bunch, suggesting they stepped down under pressure related to the museum’s activities. Hawley highlighted a Smithsonian publication that framed September 11 as a catalyst for increased Islamophobia, while noting that immigration numbers rose after the attacks.
Emphasizing America’s tradition of welcoming newcomers, he declared that only those running the Smithsonian “hate this country” and should lose their jobs. The senator called for a complete restructuring of the museum’s board, even questioning whether its current governance is constitutional. He concluded that federal funding should not support institutions perceived as hostile to national values.
Why it matters
The remarks could spark political debate over federal funding and oversight of national cultural institutions.
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