More than a dozen staff members have left the **Heritage Foundation** to join **Advancing American Freedom** (AAF), a think tank founded by former Vice President **Mike Pence**. This significant shift highlights ongoing turmoil within the Heritage Foundation, which has positioned itself at the center of an ideological struggle regarding the future direction of the conservative movement following the presidency of **Donald Trump**.
The announcement of this departure was made by **Kevin Roberts**, President of the Heritage Foundation, during an internal communication on October 4, 2023. In his message, Roberts acknowledged the challenges his organization has faced amid what he termed an ideological civil war that has emerged within conservative circles.
Staff Exodus Signals Broader Changes
The departure of these staffers marks a notable trend within conservative think tanks in **Washington, D.C.** The exodus, which includes over a dozen individuals, is seen as a reflection of the shifting priorities and strategies within the broader conservative movement. Many of those who have joined AAF are expected to expand the organization’s outreach and influence, particularly among traditional conservative audiences who may feel alienated by recent developments.
The Heritage Foundation, once a bastion of conservative thought and policy development, has increasingly faced criticism from various factions within the movement. This includes tensions over how to navigate the post-Trump political landscape, as differing views on issues such as social conservatism and populism emerge. The departure of key staff could exacerbate these tensions, further complicating the organization’s ability to maintain its influence.
Implications for Conservative Thought Leadership
The shift of personnel to AAF underscores a broader reconfiguration of conservative thought leadership in the United States. The new think tank aims to promote policies that align closely with Pence’s vision of conservatism, which emphasizes traditional values and a strong national defense. As these staffers transition to AAF, their experience and established networks are likely to bolster the organization’s credibility and effectiveness in advocating for conservative policies.
As the conservative movement continues to evolve, organizations like the Heritage Foundation and AAF will play critical roles in shaping the dialogue around key issues. The departure of these staffers may signal a changing of the guard, as younger and more diverse voices seek to redefine what it means to be a conservative in today’s political climate.
The future of both the Heritage Foundation and AAF will depend on their ability to adapt to these changing dynamics. The outcome of this ideological battle may have lasting implications for the conservative movement in the years to come.
