Eisenhower Library Director Resigns Following Dispute Over Gift to King Charles
ABILENE, Kansas – The director of the Dwight D. Eisenhower Presidential Library, Todd Arrington, resigned Monday after refusing a request to gift an original sword from the library’s collection to King Charles during President Donald trump’s visit to the United Kingdom last month, CBS News reported. A replica sword was ultimately presented to the King during the September visit to Windsor Castle.
The dispute centers around a US State Department effort to gift an Eisenhower-era sword to king Charles as a symbol of the enduring US-UK relationship following World War II. Arrington reportedly declined the request, arguing that the sword was a donated artifact and could not be relinquished. Sources told CBS News that despite Arrington offering to locate a suitable replacement, including a replica, officials continued to press for the original.
“Apparently, they believed I could no longer be trusted with confidential information,” Arrington told CBS News, stating he was given the choice to “Resign – or be fired.” He clarified the confidential information related to the sword dispute and an unrelated matter.
During the visit, President Trump and First Lady Melania Trump presented King Charles with a replica of one of Eisenhower’s swords. They also gifted Queen Camilla a vintage 18-carat gold, diamond and ruby flower brooch from Tiffany & co.
The Eisenhower Library holds several swords belonging to the 34th President, who served from 1953 to 1961 and previously commanded Allied forces in europe during WWII. The library, one of 16 presidential libraries managed by the National archives, features a saber and a sword of honor in its current exhibit.
Arrington, who began his tenure as director in August 2024, expressed his desire to return to his position. “I’d return to this job in a heartbeat,” he told CBS News. “I love the job, I love the people, I love the history. I never in a million years wanted this to happen.”
Arrington refuted claims that he made negative comments about the Trump management. “That is 100% incorrect,” he said. “I never said a bad word about anybody. I talked to colleagues about trying to find a sword or artifact…and at no time did I disparage anyone.”
The White house, the National Archives, and the Eisenhower Library have been contacted for comment. The US archivist is responsible for hiring library directors, and the White House does not have direct authority over personnel decisions at the presidential libraries.
