Historian Lonnie Bunch plans to retire as the secretary of the Smithsonian at the end of the year. This decision follows increased criticism from the Trump administration, as he announced on Tuesday. Bunch expressed mixed emotions and heartfelt gratitude for his time at the institution.

Bunch has dedicated nearly four decades to the Smithsonian, joining in 1978 and progressively taking on significant roles. He highlighted his pride and gratitude, expressing confidence in the future of the Smithsonian.

Bunch stated, “I have to be honest, it has been stressful. And at a certain point, I’d like to wake up in the morning and not look at my cellphone.”

In 2016, Bunch co-founded the Smithsonian’s National Museum of African American History and Culture, and in 2019, he became the first African American to hold the position of secretary in the institution’s long history. Chief Justice John Roberts commented on Bunch’s pursuit of excellence in representing the nation’s story, emphasizing his leadership’s impact on the Smithsonian.

The Trump administration, during its second term beginning in 2025, heightened its criticism of the Smithsonian. It initiated an internal review of prominent museums, pushed by an executive order demanding changes, including the removal of “improper ideology.” The scrutiny extended to eight museums, notably the National Museum of African American History and Culture, criticized for allegedly showcasing divisive ideologies.

In response to executive actions, federal officials were directed to install corrective signs outside the National Museum of American History. Interior Secretary Doug Burgum accused the Smithsonian of adopting a radical institutional ideology contrary to American heritage.

Bunch’s tenure began at the National Air and Space Museum before he moved to the National Museum of American History, taking on various leadership positions until 2000. He returned in 2005 to oversee the new African American history museum’s creation.

In a 2019 interview, Bunch highlighted the Smithsonian’s role as essential in uniting the country, emphasizing culture as a unifying force.

The Smithsonian Institution comprises 21 museums, 20 libraries, research centers, and the National Zoo in Washington, D.C.