Washington, December 31, 2025 —
New rules governing the National Museum of the American Indian will limit voting power on the museum’s board of trustees to those appointed by the president, effectively excluding other members, including Democrats, from key decisions.
- The Smithsonian’s National Museum of the American Indian is changing its voting rules for trustees.
- Only trustees appointed by the president will now be able to vote on museum matters.
- The change bars other trustees, including those appointed by Congress and Democrats, from participating in votes.
- The museum stated the new rules reflect “longstanding precedent.”
The National Museum of the American Indian will now restrict voting privileges on its board of trustees to those appointed by the president, according to new rules implemented Tuesday. This change effectively silences the voices of trustees appointed by Congress and other members, including Democrats, on critical decisions affecting the museum’s direction.
The museum stated that the change reflects “longstanding precedent,” though details of that precedent were not immediately available. The shift in voting power raises questions about the museum’s governance and potential political influence over its operations.
Why It Matters
This change to the National Museum of the American Indian’s board structure represents a significant consolidation of power within the Smithsonian Institution. By limiting voting rights to presidential appointees, the administration gains greater control over the museum’s policies, exhibits, and overall mission. This move could lead to shifts in how Native American history and culture are presented and interpreted, potentially prioritizing certain narratives over others. The exclusion of trustees appointed by Congress also diminishes the role of legislative oversight in the museum’s governance, raising concerns about transparency and accountability.
The National Museum of the American Indian, established in 2004, holds a unique position within the Smithsonian system as the only museum dedicated exclusively to the life, languages, literature, history, and arts of the Native peoples of the Western Hemisphere. Its board of trustees plays a crucial role in shaping the museum’s direction and ensuring its commitment to accurately and respectfully representing Native American cultures.
“The new rules say only trustees appointed by the president can vote, barring other members, including Democrats who hold seats, from decisions,” the museum stated.
Further details regarding the specific implications of this change and the museum’s rationale are expected to emerge in the coming days. Time.news will continue to follow this developing story.
