The prestigious Heritage Foundation, a cornerstone of American conservative thought, is grappling with one of its most severe internal crises in recent memory. The turmoil was triggered by the departure of more than a dozen employees, a direct consequence of mounting backlash against the think tank's president, Kevin Roberts.
Defence of Controversial Interview Sparks Internal Revolt
The controversy erupted after Roberts publicly defended a decision by conservative commentator Tucker Carlson to interview far-right activist Nick Fuentes. Fuentes is a figure widely condemned across the political spectrum for his antisemitic views. Roberts argued that engaging with such figures, rather than ostracising them, was the correct approach.
This stance ignited fierce criticism from both inside and outside the organisation. Critics accused the Heritage leadership of normalising extremist rhetoric and failing to uphold clear moral boundaries. In response to the uproar, Roberts issued multiple apologies, including a video message on November 6 and in subsequent staff meetings, where he acknowledged his response had caused harm.
However, he stopped short of cutting the foundation's institutional ties with Carlson. Roberts described Carlson as a "close friend" in a personal capacity while reiterating Heritage's opposition to antisemitism. This nuanced position failed to quell the growing dissent within the think tank's ranks.
Wave of Resignations and Terminations Hits Key Divisions
The situation escalated dramatically, leading to a significant walkout. In a Sunday night email to staff, President Kevin Roberts confirmed that "most of our legal and economic centres" were departing immediately. He noted that while the organisation wished them well, "the manner of their departures speaks volumes."
While many staff members resigned voluntarily, Heritage leadership stated that some employees were terminated for "conduct inconsistent with the organisation’s mission and standards." The exodus included senior figures from critical teams such as legal scholarship, economic policy, and data analysis. This represents a substantial loss of institutional expertise for an organisation that has long shaped conservative policy and judicial thinking.
The staff revolt was mirrored at the highest levels of governance. Three trustees have stepped down from the board in protest. They cited an inadequate response to antisemitism concerns and the growing reputational damage to the Heritage Foundation's standing. Departing figures have warned that judges and senior officials are now distancing themselves from Heritage events, weakening its influence in conservative legal and academic circles.
Defectors Find New Home in Pence-Linked Group
In a significant development, many of the departing Heritage staff have been absorbed by a rival organisation, Advancing American Freedom, which was founded by former Vice President Mike Pence. The group confirmed it has raised $13 million to fund its expansion and announced the hiring of at least 13 former Heritage employees, including senior policy experts.
Advancing American Freedom is positioning itself around traditional conservative principles like free markets, limited government, and the rule of law. This is territory the Heritage Foundation once dominated, but which has been challenged by the rise of Trump-era populism.
Heritage leadership has pushed back strongly against its critics, framing the departures as an issue of loyalty and alignment with the organisation's mission. Roberts has argued that while Heritage remains open to debate, it cannot function without unity—a stance that former staff say has led to an environment where dissent is no longer tolerated.
This rupture at the Heritage Foundation is more than an internal dispute; it reflects a broader identity crisis within the MAGA-aligned conservative movement. The struggle centres on how closely established institutions should align with the movement and how to respond when extremist figures gain mainstream visibility. Historically, think tanks like Heritage acted as gatekeepers, keeping fringe actors at a distance to protect electoral credibility. As conservatives debate the legacy of Donald Trump and the movement's future, the walkout at Heritage stands as one of the clearest signs of this deep and ongoing rift.
