The Smithsonian Institution has publicly asserted its authority to control personnel decisions amid attempts by President Trump to fire National Portrait Gallery Director Kim Sajet. Despite Trump’s claims of having dismissed Sajet, she remains in her position with the backing of the Smithsonian board, which is committed to keeping the institution free from political or partisan influence. In a statement, the Smithsonian emphasized that only its secretary has the authority to hire or fire staff, reinforcing its stance against external pressures. This conflict highlights ongoing tensions between the Smithsonian and the Trump administration, as the institution strives to maintain its independence in a politically charged environment.