Director of Dwight D. Eisenhower Presidential Library Resigns After Dispute Over Sword Gift to King Charles

Todd D. Arrington, director of the Dwight D. Eisenhower Presidential Library, resigned following a high-profile dispute with the Trump administration over a ceremonial sword gift to King Charles during President Trump’s visit to the United Kingdom. Arrington’s refusal to remove the sword from the library’s permanent collection became the center of a diplomatic controversy that ultimately led to his departure.

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What Happened

Todd Arrington served as the director of the Dwight D. Eisenhower Presidential Library, overseeing its collection of historical artifacts. The dispute arose in September 2025 when the U.S. State Department requested that a sword from the library’s collection be presented to King Charles as a diplomatic gift during President Trump’s official visit to the United Kingdom. Arrington refused the request, explaining that the sword was a donated artifact and could not be removed from the library’s permanent collection. As a result, President Trump presented King Charles with a replica of the sword instead. Buckingham Palace confirmed the substitution, viewing it as a diplomatic gesture. However, the decision generated dissatisfaction within the Trump administration.

The Controversy

Reports from CBS News indicated that Arrington either resigned or was forced to resign due to alleged issues of trust and communication with the administration. Arrington denied making any disparaging remarks about the Trump administration, stating he had only suggested finding a suitable alternative artifact or replica as a gift. “I never said a bad word about anyone,” Arrington told CBS News. “I talked to colleagues about trying to find a sword or artifact we could give. At no time did I express dislike toward anyone.” The incident sparked debate about the role of presidential libraries and whether political pressure should influence decisions regarding historical collections.

Impact and Reaction

Arrington’s resignation has raised questions about the relationship between the White House and the National Archives, which manages presidential libraries. Traditionally, library directors are appointed by the National Archives, not the President, and removals are rare and politically sensitive. Arrington expressed regret over leaving his post, stating, “I will return to this job in a heartbeat. I love this work, I love the people, I love history. I never wanted this to happen.”

The Gift Exchange

During the visit to Windsor Castle in September, President Trump and First Lady Melania Trump presented King Charles with a replica of Eisenhower’s sword. In addition, they gifted Queen Elizabeth a Tiffany & Co. vintage 18-karat gold, diamond, and ruby flower brooch, further strengthening the diplomatic exchange between the United States and the United Kingdom.

What Happens Next

The dispute over Arrington’s resignation underscores the delicate balance between preserving historical artifacts and responding to political and diplomatic needs. This situation has attracted significant attention regarding the independence of presidential libraries and the preservation of America’s historical heritage.

Conclusion

Todd Arrington’s resignation highlights the complexities of preserving historical collections amid political considerations. This story will be updated as more information emerges about the implications for presidential libraries and diplomatic gift exchanges.