Conservative Exodus: Staff Departures from Heritage Foundation to Mike Pence’s Think Tank
Former Vice President Mike Pence’s new think tank, Advancing American Freedom (AAF), is set to welcome over a dozen former staff members from the Heritage Foundation amid a backdrop of internal strife within the organization and the broader conservative movement. This mass exodus underscores significant ideological divisions as the conservative landscape continues to evolve.
Why It Matters
The departures reflect deeper ideological rifts within the conservative movement, particularly concerning the acceptance of extremist views among right-wing influencers. As traditional conservative principles grapple with a shifting landscape marked by controversial figures, organizations like AAF aim to strengthen their influence by reinforcing foundational conservative ideals.
Key Developments
- More than a dozen Heritage Foundation staff members are leaving to join Advancing American Freedom.
- The departures come after internal controversies at Heritage, particularly regarding President Kevin Roberts’ defense of Tucker Carlson’s interview with white nationalist Nick Fuentes.
- AAF President Tim Chapman reported that the organization has secured $13 million toward a $15 million goal to fund the new hires’ salaries over three years.
- AAF is expanding its team to over 30 employees and aims to address a gap in the conservative movement.
- Heritage Foundation officials labeled the departing staff as "disloyal," suggesting the move could lead to a "stronger, more focused team."
Full Report
Staff Departures and New Beginnings
In a significant shift, AAF announced its recruitment from the Heritage Foundation’s legal, economic, and data teams. Mike Pence expressed enthusiasm for the new hires, emphasizing their experience and commitment to conservative principles. Tim Chapman noted that the organization plans to deepen its research efforts, a necessity in a time when conservatives are reevaluating their identity and direction.
Funding and Future Growth
Chapman highlighted AAF’s swift fundraising success, having raised $13 million in two weeks, indicating strong support for the new initiative. This financial boost is critical as AAF aims to solidify its presence at a time of uncertainty for the Republican Party and the conservative movement more broadly.
Reaction from Heritage Foundation
In response to the resignations, Heritage Foundation’s Chief Advancement Officer Andy Olivastro characterized the departures as acts of disloyalty. He portrayed the situation as an opportunity for the Heritage Foundation to streamline its mission and focus on its core objectives.
Context & Previous Events
The upheaval at the Heritage Foundation follows previous challenges within the conservative movement, particularly its struggle with extremist ideologies. Recent controversies, such as Roberts’ defense of Tucker Carlson’s relationship with right-wing figures like Fuentes, have underlined tensions that could endanger the foundation’s influence. Heritage has been instrumental in shaping conservative policy during the Trump administration, particularly through its publication of Project 2025, which outlines key conservative goals.
