Former Vice President Mike Pence has reportedly been appointed president of the Heritage Foundation, signaling a major shift for the influential conservative think tank. During a closed-door meeting in Washington, Pence promised to restore the organization’s Reagan-era principles through firm conservative leadership.
His appointment is expected to strengthen Heritage’s role in shaping future Republican administrations. Pence reportedly plans to use Project 2025, the organization’s extensive presidential transition plan, as a guide for advancing conservative policies beyond individual elections.
The decision divided Republicans. Trump allies criticized the appointment, while establishment leaders praised Pence’s experience and policy knowledge. In his speech, Pence avoided mentioning Donald Trump and repeatedly emphasized “winning the war of ideas.”
Pence is expected to promote abortion restrictions, school choice, religious freedom, and tougher policies toward China. His first initiatives reportedly include a “Faith & Freedom” lecture series featuring prominent Republican figures and possible future vice-presidential candidates.
