Smithsonian Portrait Gallery Director Resigns | Kim Sajet
- kim Sajet has resigned from her position as director of the Smithsonian’s National Portrait gallery, Smithsonian leadership confirmed Friday.
- Sajet, who is the first woman to hold the position, said in a statement released through Lonnie Bunch, head of the Smithsonian Institution, that stepping aside was in...
- “It has been the honor of a lifetime to lead the smithsonian’s National Portrait Gallery," Sajet said.
Kim Sajet resigns as National Portrait Gallery director following controversy and pressure from former President Trump. Her departure from the Smithsonian Institution highlights the museum’s critical nonpartisan role, especially amidst political tensions surrounding diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). The news follows a public call for Sajet’s removal and a subsequent board meeting reaffirming the Smithsonian’s independence. Kevin Gover steps in as acting director. The institution now faces the challenge of finding a permanent director while navigating external pressures. News Directory 3 provides thorough coverage of this developing story. Discover what’s next …
Kim Sajet Steps Down as National Portrait Gallery Director Amid Controversy
Updated June 14, 2025
kim Sajet has resigned from her position as director of the Smithsonian’s National Portrait gallery, Smithsonian leadership confirmed Friday. Her departure comes two weeks after former President Trump publicly stated he wanted her fired.
Sajet, who is the first woman to hold the position, said in a statement released through Lonnie Bunch, head of the Smithsonian Institution, that stepping aside was in the best interest of the museum. She had served as director for 12 years.
“It has been the honor of a lifetime to lead the smithsonian’s National Portrait Gallery,” Sajet said. “this was not an easy decision, but I believe it is the right one. 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. The role of a museum director has never been about one individual — it is a shared mission, driven by the passion, creativity, and dedication of an exceptional team.”
Trump’s call for Sajet’s removal followed a May 30 post on Truth Social where he described her as “a highly partisan person, and a strong supporter of DEI.” He asserted she should be fired. However, questions arose regarding Trump’s authority over the Smithsonian, wich operates independently of the executive branch.
The Smithsonian’s Board of Regents convened Monday and affirmed Bunch’s authority in managing the institution, emphasizing its independence in personnel matters. The board directed Bunch to set clear expectations for museum content, allowing directors time to address any biases and report back on progress.
It remains unclear whether Sajet’s decision preceded the Board of Regents meeting. The Smithsonian has not commented on the timing.
bunch thanked Sajet for her service, stating, “Once again, we thank Kim for her service. Her decision to put the museum first is to be applauded and appreciated. I know this was not an easy decision. She put the needs of the Institution above her own, and for that we thank her.”
Kevin Gover, the undersecretary for museums and culture, will serve as acting director, according to Bunch.
The Smithsonian faces challenges navigating a nonpartisan role, especially after Trump’s March 27 executive order, ”Restoring Truth and Sanity to American History.” The order directs Vice President JD Vance to eliminate “improper ideology” from the Smithsonian’s museums and the National Zoo, threatening funding for programs deemed divisive.
What’s next
The smithsonian now seeks a permanent director for the National Portrait Gallery while navigating political pressures to maintain its nonpartisan stance and commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI).