Edwin J. Feulner Jr., the visionary co-founder and long-serving president of The Heritage Foundation, passed away on Friday, July 18, 2025, at the age of 83. His death marks the loss of a pivotal figure who profoundly shaped the modern conservative movement in America. Former Vice President Mike Pence, in an opinion piece published by The Wall Street Journal, highlighted Feulner's significant contributions and his concerns about the contemporary conservative landscape.
Feulner was instrumental in establishing The Heritage Foundation in 1973, transforming it into one of Washington D.C.'s most influential conservative think tanks. He served as the organization's president from 1977 to 2013, and briefly again in 2017-2018, pioneering a model of policy advocacy known as the "briefcase test," which emphasized timely, concise research for policymakers. Under his leadership, Heritage became a powerhouse of conservative ideas, significantly impacting public policy and legislative debates.
In his tribute, Mike Pence noted Feulner's dedication to foundational American principles. According to The Wall Street Journal opinion piece, > "Ed Feulner built institutions in support of American values. The Heritage founder lamented the right’s turn against free markets and U.S. global leadership." This sentiment underscores Feulner's enduring commitment to economic freedom and a robust American presence on the global stage, reflecting his steadfast conservative convictions.
Feulner's passing has prompted an outpouring of tributes from across the conservative movement, recognizing his immense legacy. The Heritage Foundation stated it would honor his life by "carrying his mission forward with courage, integrity, and determination." He was widely respected for mentoring generations of conservative leaders and policy experts, leaving behind a movement rooted in faith, family, freedom, and the founding, often encapsulated by his favorite mantra: "Onward. Always."