Kim Sajet, the director of the National Portrait Gallery, has resigned following a tumultuous period that began with former President Donald Trump’s attempt to fire her. Trump accused Sajet of being “highly partisan and a strong supporter of DEI,” leading to a standoff between the White House and the Smithsonian Institution. Despite Trump’s efforts, the museum’s governing board affirmed its independence and rejected the president’s authority over staffing decisions. Sajet, who served as the gallery’s first female director since 2013, made the difficult decision to step down in the best interest of the institution, prioritizing its needs above her own. Lonnie Bunch, the Smithsonian secretary, praised Sajet for her leadership, passion, and creativity during her 12-year tenure, where she reimagined the impact and storytelling of portraiture. Following Sajet’s resignation, Kevin Gover has taken over as acting director of the museum. Sajet expressed gratitude for the opportunity to lead the National Portrait Gallery, emphasizing the collective mission driven by the dedication of an exceptional team. The resignation marks a significant moment in the ongoing relationship between politics and cultural institutions, underscoring the importance of maintaining independence and integrity in museum leadership.