Smithsonian Director Struggles With Fundamental Questions on Sex

WHO:

Fox News - Anthea Hartig, director of the Smithsonian's National Museum of American History

ABC News - Rep. Nancy Mace, a member of the U.S. House of Representatives

WHAT:

Fox News - Anthea Hartig appeared stumped when pressed on gender questions related to drag queen displays at the museum.

ABC News - Anthea Hartig defended the museum's work amid criticism from the White House.

WHERE:

ABC News - Smithsonian's National Museum of American History, Washington, D.C.

WHY:

ABC News - The museum faced sharp criticism from the White House regarding its displays and programming.

HOW:

Fox News - Hartig's responses to questions indicated uncertainty about the museum's stance on gender issues.

(UPDATED July 21, 2026 22:21 UTC)

Anthea Hartig, the director of the Smithsonian's National Museum of American History, faced tough questions about gender issues related to drag queen displays at the museum, leaving her visibly stumped. Amid criticism from the White House regarding the museum's programming, Hartig defended the institution's work during her appearance. Her uncertain responses raised concerns about the museum's stance on these important topics.