Trump Order Uses National Park Service Walkways to Post Signs Criticizing the Smithsonian Without Its Consent

On July 24, 2026, Trump directed Interior and the National Park Service to install signs on NPS-maintained walkways leading into the Smithsonian's American History museum, accusing exhibits of "ideological capture." The Smithsonian operates as a federal trust instrumentality with institutional autonomy. Using NPS jurisdiction over surrounding walkways lets the administration post signage without the Smithsonian's cooperation.