Former Vice President Mike Pence Recruits Top Heritage Foundation Officials Amid Controversies
Former Vice President Mike Pence is attracting top officials from the Heritage Foundation to join his organization, Advancing American Freedom, as concerns rise over the think tank's controversies related to anti-semitism. Pence mentioned that the changing ideologies at Heritage have prompted officials to switch sides, criticizing the organization for embracing big-government populism and tolerating anti-semitism.
The Heritage Foundation faced backlash in October when its president, Kevin Roberts, defended Tucker Carlson's interview with white nationalist Nick Fuentes. This defense led to resignations within the organization, with Pence expressing disappointment in Heritage's shift away from its principles, including an embrace of isolationism and lack of support for Ukraine.
Around fifteen employees, including high-ranking officials like John Malcolm, Kevin Dayaratna, and Richard Stern, are set to join Pence's team in Washington. Heritage's chief advancement, Andy Olivastro, emphasized the organization's unwavering mission and leadership, stating that alignment on mission and loyalty are non-negotiable, despite some staff choosing to leave.
Pence's recruitment efforts come shortly after Professor Josh Blackman announced his resignation from Heritage, citing Roberts' defense of Carlson as indefensible. The departures highlight the internal turmoil within the Heritage Foundation and the appeal of Pence's organization to disillusioned staff members.