Trump Targets National Zoo in Latest Attack on ‘Woke’ Culture

In a move drawing both bewilderment and backlash, former President Donald Trump has extended his war on “anti-American ideology” to one of the nation’s most beloved family destinations: the National Zoo.

On Thursday, Trump signed an executive order titled “Restoring Truth and Sanity to American History”, directing Vice President JD Vance to purge the Smithsonian Institution of what the administration calls “improper ideology.” That sweeping order includes not just museums and research centers—but the zoo itself.

The bizarre turn is part of a broader campaign by Trump to dismantle diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs across federal institutions. But critics say targeting a zoo—particularly one that has long served as a hub for global conservation and public education—is both baffling and dangerous.

What Does ‘Improper Ideology’ Look Like at a Zoo?

That remains unclear. Trump offered no specifics on what ideology he believes is infecting the animal exhibits. But his administration’s rhetoric hints at anything related to discussions of race, equity, or America’s complex history.

“The Smithsonian has drifted into political propaganda,” Trump said during a campaign rally in Ohio. “We’re going to bring it back to celebrating America—not apologizing for it.”

Vice President JD Vance, now leading the review, echoed Trump’s sentiment: “The Smithsonian should be a place where kids learn to love their country, not question it.”

A Beloved Institution Under Fire

Founded in 1889, the Smithsonian’s National Zoo sprawls across 163 acres in Washington, D.C.’s Rock Creek Park. Home to more than 2,100 animals and nearly 400 species, it’s long been a symbol of international cooperation and conservation science.

That includes the zoo’s most famous residents—giant pandas Bao Li and Qing Bao, who arrived from China in October 2024. Their presence follows decades of what’s known as “panda diplomacy,” a goodwill program between the U.S. and China.

Now, those pandas may find themselves caught in a political crossfire. While the executive order makes no direct mention of them, Trump’s increasingly hostile stance toward China raises questions about whether their stay in Washington is secure.

“I wouldn’t be surprised if they start demanding we send the pandas back,” said Dr. Maria Ellis, a former Smithsonian zoologist. “It’s culture war cosplay—except it’s real, and it’s affecting actual science.”

Smithsonian Silent—For Now

The Smithsonian Institution has not issued an official response to the order. But internally, sources say staff are alarmed. Several curators and researchers, speaking anonymously, described the directive as “ideologically driven” and “disconnected from the mission of public education.”

“Targeting the zoo is just the latest escalation,” one senior staffer said. “We’re not pushing any political agenda—we’re protecting endangered species and teaching kids about the natural world.”

Not the First Target

This latest move comes just weeks after Trump installed new leadership at the Kennedy Center, triggering outrage among artists and musicians. That shake-up included the cancellation of several DEI-themed performances and educational programs.

Cultural institutions across Washington now worry they’re next.

“This isn’t about saving history,” said Rep. Jamie Raskin (D-MD). “It’s about controlling the narrative—and silencing anything that challenges a sanitized, mythologized version of America.”

What’s Next?

For now, the future of the National Zoo’s programming—and its panda exhibit—remains uncertain. Trump’s executive order calls for a “60-day comprehensive audit” of Smithsonian operations, led by Vance’s office.

Critics worry that science and education are about to take a back seat to political performance.

“If they can politicize the zoo, what’s next?” asked Dr. Ellis. “Are they going to ban climate science at the aquarium? Rewrite the Civil Rights exhibit at the museum? This isn’t governance—it’s propaganda theater.”

One thing is certain: even the animals aren’t safe from America’s culture wars.