8legs: American alliance of museums

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‘A very tough moment’: how Trump has put museums in jeopardy

Trump's policy actions are driving funding cuts and new legal constraints that affect U.S. museums.
Museum directors report only 45% met pre‑pandemic attendance levels in 2025, signaling a fragile recovery.
Smaller museums face delays and reduced programming as funding gaps persist after grants are cancelled.
Some institutions managed to replace lost funding, but most did not, underscoring uneven donor support.
Experts warn the funding squeeze could erode U.S. museum leadership internationally.
Private philanthropy has stepped up in some cases, but concerns about political risk remain.
Notable museums report resignations and shifts in tone due to federal pressure on exhibition content.
Critical voices warn that cultural programming could become more triumphalist as a result of funding shifts.
Future funding landscapes could hinge on private donors stepping in where federal support withdraws.

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