politics

March 30, 2026

Conservative think tanks jostle for influence months after Heritage Foundation exodus

The Heritage Foundation, a cornerstone of conservative policymaking for over 50 years, was rocked four months ago when its boss made a crucial misstep.

Conservative think tanks jostle for influence months after Heritage Foundation exodus

TL;DR

  • The Heritage Foundation experienced a significant staff departure after president Kevin Roberts defended Tucker Carlson's interview with Nick Fuentes.
  • Many former Heritage employees joined Mike Pence's Advancing American Freedom (AAF), bolstering its influence and fundraising.
  • The conflict is seen as a fundamental contest over the principles and direction of the conservative movement.
  • Pence criticized Heritage for adopting isolationist stances and tolerating antisemitism, while Heritage defends its focus on Trump-era priorities.
  • The competition between Heritage and AAF reflects a broader ideological debate shaping the future of Republican governance.
  • Institutions like the American Enterprise Institute (AEI) are maintaining influence by staying neutral in the factional infighting.
  • The outcome of this intellectual competition will likely influence candidate preparation and policy dictates for future Republican administrations.

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