Edwin J. Feulner, a prominent figure in the American conservative movement and co-founder of the Heritage Foundation, has died at the age of 83. He played a vital role in transforming the once-obscure think tank into a major policy powerhouse in Washington, D.C., and was instrumental in shaping the conservative movement’s approach during the Reagan era. Feulner’s influence extended beyond the Heritage Foundation, as he actively participated in initiatives like Project 2025, a controversial right-wing plan that aimed to shape policies for the second administration of former President Donald Trump. His leadership and vision left a lasting impact on the conservative movement, with his principles of faith, family, and freedom still resonating in the organization he helped build.
Feulner served as the president of the Heritage Foundation from 1977 to 2013, and later resumed the role from 2017 to 2018. His tenure saw the organization grow into a key policymaking entity in American politics, known for its influence on conservative advocacy and policy reforms. During his leadership, he initiated a new model of conservative policy advocacy that helped integrate market-based ideas into the political mainstream. Feulner also co-wrote the afterword for Project 2025, a plan that proposed extensive right-wing policy recommendations for a potential second Trump term. He personally met with Trump ahead of the 2020 election and was part of Trump’s transition team during his first presidential term.
The Heritage Foundation’s senior leaders paid tribute to Feulner, emphasizing his role as a visionary and a patriot who dedicated his life to preserving the principles that made America the freest and most prosperous nation. They highlighted his belief in unity and the importance of a ‘big-tent conservatism’ that embraced diverse perspectives within the movement. Feulner’s influence is reflected in the ongoing efforts of the Heritage Foundation to carry forward his mission, even as they continue to advocate for conservative policies and engage in initiatives like Project 2025. His legacy is not only in the institution he helped build but also in the broader conservative movement he helped shape.
Feulner was also an accomplished author, having written nine books and a former congressional aide. His contributions extended beyond the Heritage Foundation, as he was involved in various other conservative organizations and initiatives. His philosophy of ‘People are policy’ underscored his commitment to empowering and elevating the next generation of conservative leaders. The Heritage Foundation’s leaders vowed to honor his memory by continuing his mission with courage and determination. His passing marks a significant loss for the conservative movement, with many recognizing the lasting impact of his leadership and vision on American politics and policy advocacy.
Feulner is survived by his wife Lina, as well as their children and grandchildren. While the exact cause of his death was not disclosed, his legacy will continue to be remembered through the work of the Heritage Foundation and the ongoing influence of his ideas. The foundation has expressed its commitment to carrying forward his vision, ensuring that the principles he championed remain central to the conservative movement. As the nation reflects on his life and contributions, the impact of Feulner’s leadership on American conservatism will be widely acknowledged and celebrated.