“Do you believe that men can become women?”
Hartig did not answer the question directly, responding instead that the issue was “not relevant in this case.”
Mace continued her questioning.
“What is a woman, Dr. Hartig?” she asked.
Rather than provide a definition, Hartig replied, “We strive to represent and not categorize all Americans.”
The exchange quickly became one of the hearing’s most closely watched moments, with lawmakers debating whether the Smithsonian’s leadership was avoiding straightforward answers on politically charged topics.
Mace then referenced a glossary she said appears in Smithsonian materials. According to Mace, the glossary explains that while American culture has traditionally recognized two genders, other cultures recognize additional gender categories.
She followed up with another question.
“How many genders are there?” Mace asked.
Hartig answered, “I’m not sure which glossary you’re speaking.”
The response prompted additional criticism from Mace, who questioned whether the museum’s leadership was familiar with materials presented to visitors.
Debate Over Smithsonian Priorities
The hearing also examined broader concerns about the Smithsonian’s educational mission and exhibit priorities.
Republican lawmakers cited a White House report released on July 4, 2026, which criticized the Smithsonian for what it described as ideological bias throughout parts of the institution.
According to the report, several exhibits discuss topics such as gender identity, diversity initiatives, and social justice. The report also argued that the Smithsonian has not devoted comparable attention to subjects including the Founding Fathers, the Declaration of Independence, and the American Revolution.
The report further highlighted internal diversity, equity, and inclusion materials, staff discussions, and educational guidance that it said reflect progressive political viewpoints.
Republicans argued those materials demonstrate that the Smithsonian has shifted away from presenting history in a politically neutral manner.
Democrats and museum officials have generally defended efforts to present a broader range of historical experiences and perspectives, arguing that museums should reflect the complexity of American history and society.
Mace Draws Comparisons to Previous Hearings
During the hearing, Mace compared Hartig’s testimony to previous exchanges involving public officials who declined to provide a definition of the word “woman.”
She referenced Supreme Court Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson’s confirmation hearing, during which Jackson responded, “I’m not a biologist,” when asked to define a woman.
Mace also recalled questioning Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz during a previous House hearing.
According to Mace, Walz answered, “I’m not sure I understand the question.”
Mace then responded by saying, “I want you to say that a woman like me is an adult human female.”
Those earlier exchanges have continued to be cited by critics who argue that government officials increasingly avoid answering questions involving biological sex and gender identity.
Smithsonian Leadership Faces Increased Scrutiny
The hearing comes as the Smithsonian remains under heightened political scrutiny following executive actions and policy proposals aimed at reviewing federally funded cultural institutions.
Lawmakers questioned Hartig about the museum’s exhibits, educational materials, and overall direction, arguing that institutions supported by taxpayers should remain focused on presenting American history without advancing particular political or ideological viewpoints.
Hartig defended the museum’s mission throughout the hearing, emphasizing its commitment to representing Americans from diverse backgrounds.
She also testified that serving as director of the National Museum of American History is “the honor of my career.”
The hearing underscored the ongoing debate over how American history should be presented in national museums and the role federally funded institutions should play in addressing contemporary social issues. With congressional oversight expected to continue and the administration signaling additional reviews of Smithsonian programs, questions surrounding exhibit content and institutional priorities are likely to remain at the center of political debate in the months ahead.
