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A major influx of funding from influential conservative donor networks is fueling a groundbreaking conservative initiative aimed at establishing a Republican “government-in-waiting.” Project 2025, launched by the Heritage Foundation in April 2022, is receiving over $55 million from groups associated with conservative activist Leonard Leo and the Koch network. The initiative, which is already shaping up to be a pivotal force within the conservative movement, is focused on developing staunch conservative policy recommendations and building a deep reserve of right-wing personnel ready to assume key positions in the next Republican administration.
With former President Donald Trump as the presumptive 2024 GOP nominee, Project 2025 is strategically positioning itself to potentially transition into a Trump-led government if he secures victory in the upcoming election. Supported by a network of former high-level Trump administration appointees and an advisory board comprising over 100 conservative organizations, Project 2025 is positioning itself as the most advanced transition effort catering to conservatives. The initiative includes a comprehensive manifesto outlining a policy agenda for every department, agency, and office within the federal government.
Leonard Leo’s network alone has channeled more than $50.7 million to groups advising the 2025 Presidential Transition Project. This financial support is provided through the Project 2025 advisory board and includes donations from The 85 Fund and the Concord Fund. Additionally, DonorsTrust, which has received substantial funding from Leo-backed groups, has contributed over $21.1 million to 40 organizations involved in Project 2025.
As a prominent conservative megadonor with a strong focus on reshaping the American judiciary, Leonard Leo has played a key role in advising Trump on judicial appointments and contributing to the current conservative majority on the Supreme Court. Alongside Leo’s contributions, the Heritage Foundation has also increased its donations to Project 2025 advisory groups. However, the foundation has not issued any immediate response to queries regarding its involvement.
Furthermore, Charles Koch’s network has directed over $4.4 million in funding to Project 2025 through its donor conduit, Stand Together Trust. The initiative’s vision for the energy agenda under the next conservative administration involves ramping up oil and gas leases and production to enhance energy security. Proposals include restructuring the Energy Department to shift focus away from climate change and green subsidies.
Project 2025’s advisory board comprises representatives from various conservative groups, including veterans of the Trump administration, such as America First Legal, the Center for Renewing America, and the Conservative Partnership Institute. The initiative also features established conservative organizations like the Claremont Institute, the Family Research Council, and the Independent Women’s Forum.
Despite not openly endorsing a specific candidate, the groups advising Project 2025 have strong ties to Trump’s administration. With Trump securing the delegate majority for the Republican nomination, a potential rematch with President Joe Biden looms on the horizon. Amidst concerns about the conservative program outlined by Project 2025 and its financial backers, it remains crucial to hold individuals like Leo, Koch, and others accountable for their role in shaping a policy platform that prioritizes special interests over the well-being of ordinary Americans and poses a significant threat to democracy.
