Politics / US News
Ed Feulner, Heritage Foundation Founder, Passes at 83, Leaving a Conservative Legacy
Ed Feulner, founder of The Heritage Foundation, dies at 83, leaving a monumental legacy in shaping modern conservatism. His vision of limited government and free markets fueled the Reagan Revolution and continues to inspire.
RWTNews Staff
July 19, 2025 - Ed Feulner, the visionary founder of The Heritage Foundation and a cornerstone of modern conservatism, died at 83. A staunch advocate for limited government, free enterprise, and traditional values, Feulner established Heritage in 1973, guiding it for nearly four decades into a leading force in shaping conservative policy. His work was instrumental in the Reagan Revolution, promoting tax cuts, deregulation, and a robust national defense. Feulner, author of nine books, leaves a lasting impact on the conservative movement.
The Heritage Foundation announced his passing on Friday, celebrating his role in transforming the organization from a modest policy group into a dominant Washington think tank. Under Feulner’s leadership, Heritage became a vital resource for lawmakers, offering practical, Constitution-based solutions that reshaped public policy.
Heritage President Dr. Kevin Roberts and Board Chairman Barb Van Andel-Gaby hailed Feulner as a patriot whose love for America’s founding principles defined his career. They credited his strategic vision and moral clarity with building Heritage into a resilient institution dedicated to truth and public service. “Ed’s ‘big-tent conservatism’ united diverse voices within the movement, emphasizing collaboration over division,” they said, quoting his belief: “You win through multiplication and addition, not division and subtraction.”
Feulner’s optimism and resolve were legendary. Known for his mantra “Onward!,” he viewed every challenge as an opportunity to advance freedom. His “Feulnerisms,” like “People are policy,” inspired Heritage’s mission to nurture new conservative leaders nationwide. He rejected complacency, often reminding colleagues, “In Washington, there are no permanent victories or defeats.”
A mentor to countless conservative leaders, Feulner ensured Heritage delivered “briefcase-ready” policy proposals, enabling lawmakers to act swiftly on pressing issues. His efforts made Heritage a breeding ground for influential voices in conservatism.
Feulner is survived by his wife, Linda, two children, and three grandchildren. Heritage leaders vowed to honor his legacy by continuing his mission with the same optimism and determination that defined his life.