National Portrait Gallery: Art & Controversy
- Kim Sajet, director of the National Portrait Gallery, announced her resignation Friday afternoon.
- Sajet, in her statement, did not directly address the president's remarks or a prior statement from the Smithsonian. Though, she acknowledged the circumstances surrounding her decision.
- “This was not an easy decision,but I believe it is the right one,” Sajet said.
Director kim Sajet resigns from the National Portrait Gallery following President Trump’s expressed desire to terminate her employment.The Smithsonian’s independence is reaffirmed amidst this controversy, with Trump’s efforts to remove Sajet thwarted by the institution’s bylaws.This pivotal moment sparks conversations about the interplay of politics and art institutions.Read the full story to understand the intricacies of this high-profile resignation and its implications. News Directory 3 reports on the latest developments. The search for a new director begins, setting the stage for the gallery’s future. Discover what’s next for the National Portrait Gallery.
Kim Sajet Resigns from National Portrait Gallery Director Role
Updated June 14, 2025
Kim Sajet, director of the National Portrait Gallery, announced her resignation Friday afternoon. This decision follows President Donald Trump‘s previous statement on May 30 expressing his intent to terminate her employment, citing her as ”a highly partisan person, and a strong supporter of DEI.”
Sajet, in her statement, did not directly address the president’s remarks or a prior statement from the Smithsonian. Though, she acknowledged the circumstances surrounding her decision. She emphasized her commitment to the institution.
“This was not an easy decision,but I believe it is the right one,” Sajet said. “From the very beginning, my guiding principle has been to put the museum first. Today, I believe that stepping aside is the best way to serve the institution I hold so deeply in my heart.”
Smithsonian Secretary Lonnie Bunch acknowledged Sajet’s service. He highlighted her dedication to the institution’s needs.
“we thank kim for her service,” Bunch said. “She put the needs of the Institution above her own, and for that we thank her.”
The Smithsonian,while not part of the executive branch,became a focal point in debates over cultural institutions.Richard H. Pildes, a constitutional law professor at NYU, previously noted the Smithsonian’s unique legal standing, distinct from executive branch control. This independence played a meaningful role in the events surrounding the director role and the diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives.
Despite Trump’s attempt to remove Sajet via social media, the Smithsonian’s bylaws stipulate that the president cannot unilaterally fire the head of one of its museums. The Board of Regents reinforced this stance, affirming that all personnel changes are subject to the Secretary’s direction and their oversight. The board includes Vice President JD Vance and Chief Justice John roberts.
What’s next
The white House has not commented. The Smithsonian will begin the search for a new director to fill the leadership role at the National Portrait gallery.