The Heritage Foundation recently announced the termination of Paul Dans, the former director of its Project 2025, due to professional misconduct and unprofessional interactions with colleagues.
Initially portrayed as a voluntary departure, the organization clarified that Dans was actually dismissed after an internal review revealed troubling behavior that made staff members uncomfortable.
Kelly Adams, Heritage’s HR director, stated that Dans’s conduct was dismissive and damaging to workplace morale.
Following his removal, Dans accused the think tank of using him as a scapegoat for internal issues, claiming the organization mishandled public relations regarding Project 2025.
Concerns about Dans’s behavior had surfaced earlier in the summer as Project 2025 faced increased scrutiny from critics.
Multiple staffers reportedly felt intimidated by Dans’s responses to criticism, leading to a pattern of behavior that ultimately resulted in his firing.
Heritage Foundation leadership emphasized their commitment to a respectful work environment and reiterated their focus on influencing policy to restore the American dream.
