Scoop: Trump admin emphasizes Declaration of Independence in arts grants

What they're saying: "Under the updated guidelines, the NEA continues to encourage projects that celebrate the nation's rich artistic heritage and creativity by honoring the semiquincentennial of the United States of America," per an email sent Thursday from the NEA to arts organizations around the country.

Between the lines: The NEA is halting at least one major upcoming grant program and requiring new applications.

• The NEA email said that "the Challenge America opportunity is canceled for FY 2026."
• During the Biden administration that program was described this way, per a description on the NEA website that has been taken down: "Challenge America offers support primarily to small organizations for projects that extend the reach of the arts to underserved groups/communities."

Follow the money: The NEA gets about $200 million in federal funding annually, as it disburses grants to orchestras, theater groups, literary magazines, museums, painters and countless other cultural and state groups each year.

Zoom out: The change in arts grants comes as the Trump administration conducts a sweeping review of federal spending, and as it strips away diversity programs and reexamines the teaching of U.S. history.