The Heritage Foundation, founded in 1973, stands as a pivotal force in shaping the ideological and political landscape of the United States, particularly within the conservative movement.

It plays a dual role: not only providing policy advice but also crafting a compelling narrative of American ideals that resonate with the Republican base. Central to this mission is its advocacy for limited government, free markets, and traditional values. Over the decades, the Foundation has positioned itself as a key player in molding the story of America's future, arguing that a return to foundational principles is essential for national success.

One of the most significant examples of Heritage's narrative-shaping efforts came during the Reagan administration, with its Mandate for Leadership, a comprehensive policy agenda that influenced the government's approach to conservatism in the 1980s. This initiative helped establish Heritage not just as a think tank but as a mythmaker, casting a vision of America as a land of opportunity and strength, while framing the expansion of government and liberal policies as threats to the nation’s vitality. The Foundation’s role in shaping modern conservatism continues today through initiatives like Project 2025, which aims to advance a bold new conservative vision for governance, underscoring a narrative of national restoration in the face of perceived societal decline.

By embedding its policy proposals within a broader narrative of American exceptionalism, self-reliance, and moral clarity, the Heritage Foundation engages deeply with its audience's need for purpose and direction. However, this approach has its drawbacks, particularly in fostering polarization by framing issues in binary terms of good versus evil. Nevertheless, the Foundation's influence remains strong, not only through its policy prescriptions but also in how it defines the political battleground, shaping the terms by which Americans understand and engage with their political system.