Heritage Board Denies Meeting Amidst Staff Shakeup Following Carlson-Fuentes Controversy

The Heritage Foundation's Board of Trustees has publicly denied holding a meeting since a significant staff shakeup occurred on Friday, November 1, 2025. The denial comes amid internal and external turmoil for the conservative think tank, stemming from its president's defense of Tucker Carlson's interview with white nationalist Nick Fuentes.

Audrey Fahlberg, a breaking news reporter for the Washington Examiner, reported on the board's statement, quoting directly, > "There has been no board meeting and 'sources' saying otherwise should not be taken seriously." This statement refutes claims circulating about immediate board action following the personnel changes.

The staff reassignments were announced by Heritage Foundation President Kevin Roberts on Friday, November 1. Ryan Neuhaus, who had served as Chief of Staff since January 2025, was moved to a Senior Advisor role within the B. Kenneth Simon Center for American Studies, while Executive Vice President Derrick Morgan was appointed as acting Chief of Staff. Roberts cited the need to "ensure we meet this moment with focus and excellence" for the changes.

These internal shifts followed a widespread conservative uproar over Roberts' initial statement defending Tucker Carlson for his interview with Nick Fuentes, a figure known for antisemitic views. Roberts later clarified his stance, condemning Fuentes' ideology, but the controversy had already sparked significant backlash from within Heritage, Republican officials, and Jewish leaders. The incident highlighted a growing schism within the conservative movement regarding antisemitism and who is considered a legitimate voice.

The Heritage Foundation, established during the Nixon administration, has long been a pillar of the conservative intellectual movement in Washington. More recently, under Roberts' leadership, it has aligned more closely with the MAGA movement and engaged in political activism, culminating in initiatives like Project 2025. The recent controversy further underscores the internal tensions and external pressures facing the organization.