Staff Exodus at Heritage Foundation Signals Deepening Rift in US Conservatism

More than a dozen staffers have exited the Heritage Foundation, one of Washington's most influential conservative think tanks, following intense internal turmoil. The departures stem from a fierce debate within the organization and the broader conservative movement over its engagement with right-wing influencers known for promoting antisemitic and other extremist ideas.

This staff walkout is more than an internal HR issue; it's a stark symptom of a widening ideological fissure in American conservatism. It signals that the long-simmering conflict between policy-focused, institutional conservatism and a more aggressive, influencer-driven populism centered on culture wars may be reaching a breaking point.

[callout-info] Context: Founded in 1973, the Heritage Foundation is a powerhouse in conservative politics. It has historically shaped Republican policy and served as a staffing pipeline for GOP administrations. It's currently leading 'Project 2025,' a comprehensive transition plan for a potential future conservative presidency, making its internal stability a key barometer for the movement's direction.

The core of the dispute, according to sources familiar with the turmoil, revolves around how closely the foundation should align itself with hardline figures from outside the traditional policy world. Internally, concerns have grown that associating with individuals accused of extremism could permanently damage Heritage's intellectual credibility and political influence.

This exodus crystalizes an identity crisis facing American conservatism. A movement once united by shared policy goals is now consumed by an internal struggle over its own definition. The battle between ideological purists and pragmatic institutionalists will have significant consequences for future elections and policy agendas. For a global audience, this internal division introduces a new layer of unpredictability to America's political trajectory, potentially complicating relations with allies and adversaries alike.