Trump Criticizes Smithsonian for Focus on Slavery, Plans Museum Review
TL/DR –
Donald Trump criticized the Smithsonian Institution for focusing excessively on the negative aspects of U.S. history, specifically slavery. The Trump administration is conducting an internal review of several Smithsonian museums, alleging they spread an “anti-American ideology”. The review is expected to scrutinize displays such as a Benjamin Franklin exhibit linking his scientific achievements to his ownership of slaves, and a film about George Floyd’s murder which the administration says misrepresents the police.
After Donald Trump criticised the Smithsonian Institution’s focus on slavery, the Guardian unveiled plans for Trump’s administration to review seven flagship museums. Trump threatened the institution with funding cuts, as he did with universities, alleging it spreads “anti-American ideology”. The White House announced a review of Smithsonian museums last week.
Here’s the critical Trump administration news:
Trump to Review Smithsonian Museums’ Slavery Focus
The Guardian reported on the Trump administration’s review of Smithsonian museums, stating that the White House believes they present overly negative depictions of US history. The document includes criticisms of exhibits on Benjamin Franklin’s slave ownership and a ‘mischaracterised’ film on George Floyd’s homicide. Full story here.
President Demands Federal Reserve Governor Resignation
Donald Trump called on a Federal Reserve governor to resign, intensifying his attack on the central bank’s independence. Trump demands lower interest rates and called for Jerome Powell, the chair, to quit. Full story here.
Texas Republicans Pass Trump-Requested Congressional Map
The Republican-controlled Texas House of Representatives approved a redrawn congressional map requested by Donald Trump and opposed by Democrats. This approval ignited a redistricting contest between red and blue states. The state Senate is expected to pass the map soon. Full story here.
Judge Denies Trump’s Request for Epstein Transcripts
A federal judge has rejected the government’s request to unseal grand jury transcripts from the Jeffrey Epstein case. This ruling followed another denial of the government’s request in the Ghislaine Maxwell case. Full story here.
Health Agency Workers Accuse RFK Jr of Inciting Violence
Over 750 federal health employees accused health and human services (HHS) secretary, Robert F Kennedy Jr, of inciting violence against health staff. Full story here.
Military Vehicle Crashes in DC
A military vehicle crashed into a car in Washington DC as Republican-led states pledge to send more troops to the capital. Full story here.
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