When the Heritage Foundation convened its annual Forum at the Gaylord Resort in National Harbor, Maryland, the tone was unmistakably urgent. Organizers, led by President Kevin Roberts, framed the recent midterm disaster as a call to action for the Republican Party.
Why the GOP fell short
Roberts opened the session by asking why the GOP was “blown out” and how the party could recover. The consensus among speakers was that Senate Majority Leader John Thune, R‑South Dakota, bore primary responsibility. Thune was described as practicing “watered‑down conservatism” and failing to advance key legislation such as the SAVE America Act.
Yoram Hazony, a noted conservative intellectual, warned that the party’s inability to pass election‑integrity measures was a “broken” issue that needed immediate attention. Rep. Chip Roy, R‑Texas, echoed the frustration, declaring, “No more excuses. No more garbage about the filibuster… I want delivery of freedom, limited government, and security on our border and streets.”
Calls for a new strategy
Panelists urged Republicans to reconnect with younger voters, with Fox News contributor Ben Domenech urging the party to stop mocking video‑game enthusiasts and instead treat them as serious constituents. Mary Katharine Ham of the “Normally” podcast described the midterms as a “vibes election,” noting that voters were looking for a party to punish and chose Republicans this cycle.
The discussion turned to the 2028 presidential field. While traditional names such as Vance, Rubio, Cruz, and DeSantis remain prominent, several attendees mentioned newer possibilities, including Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, New Hampshire Gov‑elect Kelly Ayotte, former Virginia Gov. Glenn Youngkin, and Secretary of War Pete Hegseth.
Heritage’s willingness to work across the aisle
Roberts emphasized that the Heritage Foundation would collaborate with any Republican willing to focus on “kitchen‑table issues,” even extending a hand to Thune. He added that the foundation aims to “gum up” radical legislation from the left, reinforcing the need for a robust conservative response.
In the broader context, the forum underscored President Donald Trump’s continued influence. With President Trump entering the final two years of his term, speakers argued that Republicans must fight harder than ever to preserve limited government and protect American families.
Looking ahead
Attendees left the Forum with a sense of renewed purpose, acknowledging past setbacks but confident that the conservative movement can rebound. The consensus was clear: the party must demonstrate fire and resolve to win back the trust of voters and advance the agenda championed by President Trump.
Original reporting: Fox News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
