Trump urges Smithsonian to swap modern sculpture for towering Washington statue
Donald Trump asked the Smithsonian to replace the abstract "Infinity" sculpture with a 30-foot George Washington statue before Constitution Day.
Donald Trump posted on Truth Social demanding that the Smithsonian replace the rotating "Infinity" sculpture with a massive George Washington statue ahead of Constitution Day on September 17, 2026. He cited an 11-foot Washington piece displayed in the museum’s Flag Hall and proposed a 30-foot colossus to stand where one outlet abstract work, created by Jose de Rivera in 1967, is located. Trump criticized the modern sculpture as uninspiring and argued that Washington best embodies American values, especially as the nation approaches the president’s 300th birthday in 2032.
The appeal comes as Smithsonian Director Lonnie Bunch III announced his retirement following clashes with the Trump administration over exhibits emphasizing oppression rather than triumph. Trump also suggested replacing the museum’s Center for Restorative History with a Center for American Heroes to focus on celebrated figures.
Why it matters
The demand highlights a high-profile clash over how national history and symbols are presented in a major public museum.
How this story developed
- Sep 8 Smithsonian Director Lonnie Bunch Announces Retirement Amid Administration Pressure
- Sep 8 Bunch announced his retirement, citing personal timing and recent administration criticism.
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