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The Smithsonian's National Museum of American History says it's restoring the inclusion of President Donald Trump's two impeachments in its presidential exhibit following backlash over its quiet removal.
The move comes after the Washington Post reported that the museum removed a placard referencing Trump's impeachments from its exhibit "The American Presidency: A Glorious Burden." The removal sparked questions over whether the museum had succumbed to political pressure from the White House.
On Saturday (August 2), the Smithsonian denied any political influence, saying Trump's impeachment placard was removed due to presentation issues.
“The placard… did not meet the museum’s standards in appearance, location, timeline, and overall presentation,” the museum said in a statement. “It was not consistent with other sections… and moreover blocked the view of the objects inside its case.”
The placard was initially added to the exhibit in 2021 as a temporary measure and was removed in July 2025. The museum said it would now be formally updating its "Impeachment section" in the coming weeks to reflect all U.S. impeachment proceedings.
According to the Post, the Smithsonian removed the placard following internal reviews and pressure from the White House. Trump signed an executive order in March to reshape the institution, accusing it of promoting “divisive, race-centered ideology.” Vice President JD Vance was tasked to “remove improper ideology” from Smithsonian museums.
Democratic lawmakers condemned the exhibit change, calling it censorship.
“He is censoring the American History Museum. It’s Orwellian,” Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., said. “The American people will never forget that you were impeached not once, but twice.”
Amid the controversy, the Smithsonian said it's committed to providing “a greater and shared understanding” through its exhibitions.
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