Trump asks Smithsonian to install ‘Colossus statue’ of George Washington with exhibit
President Donald Trump has requested the Smithsonian Institution to install a 30-foot statue of George Washington outside the National Museum of American History, replacing the existing Infinity sculpture. The request includes a special exhibit honoring Washington that would remain until February 2032, marking the 300th anniversary of his birth. This move highlights ongoing tensions between the administration and the Smithsonian, which operates independently of the executive branch despite Trump's efforts to influence its content.
- ▪Trump requested a 30-foot 'Colossus statue' of George Washington to replace the Infinity sculpture at the National Museum of American History.
- ▪The proposed exhibit is intended to run until February 2032, coinciding with the 300th anniversary of Washington's birth.
- ▪Smithsonian Secretary Lonnie Bunch announced he will step down by the end of the year amid pressure regarding the institution's independence.
- ▪The administration previously issued a report criticizing the museum for focusing on oppression and social justice rather than national achievements.
- ▪Trump also requested the installation of an 11-foot Washington statue in the museum's Flag Hall for Constitution Day.
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| Original publisher | The Guardian — World |
| Canonical URL | https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2026/sep/12/trump-smithsonian-george-washington-statue-exhibit |
| Publication time | Sat, 12 Sep 2026 19:32:32 GMT |
| Retrieval time | 2026-09-12T19:39:59.207Z |
| Last seen | 2026-09-12T19:39:59.207Z |
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Exterior view of the Smithsonian National Museum of American History in Washington DC on 28 March 2025. At the right is the Infinity sculpture by José de Rivera. Photograph: Will Oliver/EPAView image in fullscreenExterior view of the Smithsonian National Museum of American History in Washington DC on 28 March 2025. At the right is the Infinity sculpture by José de Rivera. Photograph: Will Oliver/EPADonald TrumpTrump asks Smithsonian to install ‘Colossus statue’ of George Washington with exhibitTrump, again trying to curate museum, says exhibit would stay until 2032 for 300th anniversary of Washington’s birthEdward HelmoreSat 12 Sep 2026 15.32 EDTSharePrefer the Guardian on GoogleDonald Trump asked the Smithsonian Institution to install a 30ft “Colossus statue” of George Washington outside…
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