Key Leaders Depart Heritage Foundation for Mike Pence’s Advancing American Freedom

In a significant shift within conservative circles, multiple top leaders from the Heritage Foundation are leaving to join Vice President Mike Pence’s advocacy organization, Advancing American Freedom (AAF). This move comes amid allegations that the long-established think tank is tolerating antisemitism, sparking significant controversy in the conservative community.

Exiting Leaders and New Beginnings

John Malcolm, previously the deputy director at Heritage’s Edwin Meese III Center for Legal and Judicial Studies, is set to assume the role of vice president at the AAF. In a recent post on X (formerly Twitter), Malcolm expressed enthusiasm for the new chapter ahead, stating, “Exciting times ahead.”

Joining him are:

• Richard Stern, head of Heritage’s economic studies department
• Kevin Dayaratna, chief statistician
• Other key contributors from their respective teams

Pence’s statement: “AAF is honored to welcome these principled conservative scholars to the team. They bring a wealth of experience, a love of country, and a deep commitment to the Constitution that will further the cause of liberty.”

Internal Strife at the Heritage Foundation

Heritage Foundation spokesperson Andy Olivastro criticized the departing staff, accusing them of disloyalty and breaches of fiduciary duty. He clarified in a statement to the New York Sun that Malcolm and fellow staffer Jessica Reinsch were terminated due to actions inconsistent with the foundation’s mission. Interestingly, Reinsch has also accepted a position with Advancing American Freedom.

• Olivastro asserted: “Others who departed were closely aligned with them. Onward and upward.”

Former Attorney General Edwin Meese, after whom the Heritage Center is named, has publicly supported the migration of the department to Pence’s organization. He expressed confidence in the Meese Institute’s future contributions to the conservative legal movement.

Controversial Stances and Internal Divisions

Founded over 50 years ago, the Heritage Foundation has play a pivotal role in promoting conservative policies, including limited government and a robust national defense. However, in recent months it has faced backlash, notably following a defense of commentator Tucker Carlson for hosting notorious Holocaust denier Nick Fuentes.

• Pence’s viewpoint: He voiced concerns over Heritage “abandoning its principles” and noted an increasing embrace of isolationist policies and tariffs within the organization.

The sector is watching closely as the fallout from these controversies continues to unfold, creating opportunities for leaders like Pence to reestablish themselves in the conservative movement.

Broader Impact

The recent departures have raised questions about the ideological direction of the Heritage Foundation. In an open letter published on Reason, Josh Blackman, a senior editor at the Heritage Guide to the Constitution, labeled Heritage’s shifts as “untenable” and a “huge unforced blunder” that contributes to the rising tide of antisemitism.

Advancing American Freedom recently announced the addition of 13 new associates and hinted at further expansion, positioning itself as a potential leader in the conservative movement moving forward.

Conclusion

As the conservative landscape evolves, the departure of these key figures from the Heritage Foundation to Mike Pence’s Advancing American Freedom could signal a larger shift in ideology and strategy for the right. With ongoing tensions surrounding antisemitism and conservative principles at the forefront, this transition promises to have lasting implications for both organizations and their followers.

For more information on the Heritage Foundation and its evolving role in American conservatism, visit their official website.

For insights into Advancing American Freedom’s future plans, check out the AAF website.