Edwin J. Feulner was a prominent figure in the American conservative movement and co-founder and former president of the Heritage Foundation. He died on July 18, 2025, at the age of 83.

Feulner served as the organization's president from 1977 to 2013 and again from 2017 to 2018. He was well known for transforming the once-obscure think tank into one of the most influential policy powerhouses in Washington, D.C. He was its longest-serving president after helping to create the Washington, D.C.-based think tank in 1973.

"Ed Feulner was more than a leader—he was a visionary, a builder, and a patriot of the highest order," Heritage President Kevin Roberts and Board of Trustees Chairman Barb Van Andel-Gaby said in a joint statement. "His unwavering love of country and his determination to safeguard the principles that made America the freest, most prosperous nation in human history shaped every fiber of the conservative movement—and still do."

Feulner was known for helping shape Reagan-era reforms and pushing market-based ideas into political mainstream. He co-wrote Project 2025, a controversial initiative that offered right-wing policy recommendations for the second Trump administration. Feulner also met with President Donald Trump ahead of last year's election and was on Trump's transition team.

Feulner has remained active through Project 2025 and a transition plan for a second Trump term which is drawing praise and criticism for its hardline policy proposals. An author of nine books and a former congressional aide , he was also involved in various other conservative organizations.

Edwin J. Feulner, co-founder of the Heritage Foundation, served as the organization's president from 1977 to 2013 and again from 2017 to 2018. (Getty Images)

Feulner's legacy is not just the institution he built, but the movement he helped grow—a movement rooted in faith, family, freedom, and the founding.

"His 'Feulnerisms' still resonate in the halls of Heritage—where they will always be remembered. 'People are policy,' for instance— the heartbeat of his mission—to equip, encourage, and elevate a new generation of conservative leaders, not just in Washington, but across this great country," the statement continued.

"And we still remember his adjuration to never be complacent or discouraged: 'In Washington, there are no permanent victories and no permanent defeats,'" the leaders said.

Feulner is survived by his wife Lina, as well as their children and grandchildren. The cause of death was not disclosed by Heritage.

Edwin J. Feulner's impact on American politics cannot be overstated. He played a significant role in shaping the conservative movement and helping to craft Trump's agenda through Project 2025.

Feulner's legacy is a testament to his unwavering commitment to the principles that made America great. His vision for a more prosperous and free society continues to inspire conservatives today.

Feulner's story is one of perseverance, dedication, and a passion for the conservative cause. He left an indelible mark on American politics and will be remembered for generations to come.

In his book "Conservative Victory: How We Won the Culture War," Feulner wrote that the key to success was to build a strong foundation of conservative values and principles. He believed that by promoting these values, conservatives could create a more prosperous and free society.

Feulner's approach to conservatism was unique in its emphasis on building coalitions and working across party lines. He believed that by finding common ground with moderates and independents, conservatives could achieve greater success.

Under Feulner's leadership, Heritage became one of the most influential think tanks in Washington, D.C. His legacy is a testament to his vision for a more prosperous and free society.

Feulner's commitment to conservatism was unwavering, even in the face of adversity. He remained steadfast in his convictions, even when faced with criticism and opposition from within and outside his own party.

Edwin J. Feulner's legacy is one of courage, conviction, and dedication to the conservative cause. His impact on American politics will be felt for generations to come.

Feulner's story serves as a reminder that even the smallest actions can have a profound impact when it comes to shaping the course of history.