Recent Board Departures
The Heritage Foundation Board of Trustees has seen the resignation of two more members, increasing the total to three who have stepped down due to ongoing disputes regarding the organization’s leadership following a controversy over antisemitism.
Shane McCullar and Abby Spencer Moffat announced their resignations in separate statements on Tuesday.
The resignations occurred less than two months after President Kevin Roberts sparked backlash by defending Tucker Carlson’s interview with controversial figure Nick Fuentes, known for his pro-Hitler sentiments.
McCullar, CEO of KW Metro Center, expressed that he joined the board last year to promote “the ideals of America’s Founding,” but felt compelled to resign “in furtherance of those same values.” He stated, “No institution that hesitates to condemn antisemitism and hatred — or that gives a platform to those who spread them — can credibly claim to uphold the vision that once made the Heritage Foundation the world’s most respected conservative think tank.”
He further added, “I cannot, in good conscience, remain on a board that is unwilling to confront the lapses in judgment that have harmed its credibility, its culture, and the conservative movement it once helped shape.”
Moffat, CEO of the Diana Davis Spencer Foundation and a board member since 2009, described her decision as difficult due to her family’s longstanding connection with the organization. She stated it was necessary because “Heritage’s handling of recent challenges reveals a drift from the principles that once defined its leadership.”
Moffat emphasized her commitment to American founding ideals and institutions promoting human dignity but could not stay on a board lacking clarity and courage during critical times.
President Roberts issued an apology for his previous comments regarding those criticizing Carlson but continued to support him despite Carlson’s controversial remarks about Israel on his podcast. Additionally, Princeton professor Robert P. George resigned from the board on November 17, acknowledging Roberts as a “good man” but deeming his apology inadequate.
