The director of the Eisenhower Presidential Library has been ousted following his refusal to hand over one of Dwight D Eisenhower’s swords as a diplomatic gift to King Charles during Donald Trump’s recent state visit, according to reports. Todd Arrington, a long-serving federal historian, said he was forced to resign after resisting the White House request. The administration instead presented the British monarch with a replica sword from West Point.
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Archivist Pressured To Resign
Todd Arrington confirmed to CBS News that he left his position on Monday after being told to “resign or be fired.” He did not specify which authority delivered the ultimatum, but admitted the decision was tied to the controversy surrounding Trump’s request. Arrington described the ordeal as both devastating and unjust, highlighting his dedication to preserving presidential history.
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Eisenhower Library Role
The Eisenhower Presidential Library and Museum, located in Abilene, Kansas, is part of the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA). The institution preserves key historical artifacts from the life and presidency of Dwight D Eisenhower, who served as the 34th US president from 1953 to 1961. Prior to his presidency, Eisenhower commanded Allied forces in Europe during the Second World War.
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Sword Request Disputed
Arrington reportedly resisted efforts by the Trump administration to remove one of Eisenhower’s swords from the collection to be given to King Charles. The gesture was intended to symbolize US-UK unity and celebrate wartime collaboration. However, historians raised concerns over transferring authentic presidential artifacts as gifts, which could set a precedent for politicizing national treasures.
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Replica Sword Presented
When Arrington refused, the administration opted for a replica sword instead, donated by the US Military Academy at West Point, where Eisenhower began his military career. This replica was presented to King Charles at a state banquet during Trump’s visit to Windsor Castle in September.
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Reports Of Wider Disputes
The New York Times reported that Arrington’s departure may not have been tied solely to the sword controversy. Discussions over building a new education center at the Eisenhower Library were also said to have played a role in his ousting. These tensions illustrate a broader struggle over how presidential institutions are managed under the Trump administration.
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Arrington Seeks Reinstatement
Speaking to the Daily Mail, Arrington expressed his determination to regain his position. “I’m very sad and upset, and frankly devastated, and I have tried to reach out to higher-ups in the National Archives to basically say, I will do whatever it takes to reverse this,” he said. His comments reflect the personal and professional toll of the forced resignation.
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Trump’s Cultural Overhaul
Arrington’s removal comes amid Trump’s sweeping reshaping of US cultural and historical institutions since returning to office in January. Multiple bipartisan boards have been disbanded, replaced with Trump’s allies. Critics argue these moves represent an unprecedented level of political interference in historically nonpartisan federal institutions.