Conservative figures have responded to Donald Trump’s recent disassociation from Project 2025, labeling the controversial policy suggestions as “radical” and “extremely extreme.”
During a campaign rally in Grand Rapids, Michigan, Trump referenced attempts by the Democrats to tie him to the Heritage Foundation’s Project 2025 proposals in order to portray him as an extremist.
Trump emphasized that he holds common sense and is not an extremist, distancing himself from the thought tank’s policy recommendations. Project 2025, a comprehensive 900-page document of suggested policies for a prospective Republican government, includes several unpopular proposals.
Trump characterized the authors and the Heritage Foundation as being on the “severe right,” prompting some members of the audience to express disapproval.
Utah Senator Mike Lee expressed skepticism regarding Trump’s denouncement of Project 2025, implying that Trump may be reacting to mischaracterizations of the project by progressive Democrats rather than its actual content.
Despite differing views on Project 2025, Trump commended far-right commentator Nick Fuentes, with whom he had dined in 2022, despite disagreements on the project.
The proposed policies in Project 2025, developed by numerous contributors, advocate for significant changes such as revoking civil service protections, eliminating government departments, and rolling back certain programs.
Despite Trump distancing himself from Project 2025, 31 of its contributors have served in various capacities within his administration.