The conservative movement stands at a crossroads, according to Kevin Roberts, President of the Heritage Foundation. Speaking to Fox News Digital from AmericaFest following the tragic murder of Charlie Kirk, Roberts expressed a blend of optimism and determination amid recent setbacks for conservatives. He remarked on the energy at the event, which drew thousands of passionate conservatives from all walks of life. “I was expecting to be really encouraged, and I am,” he said, signaling a positive outlook despite the challenges ahead.
Roberts urged conservatives to look beyond the negative narratives often driven by the media and to remain hopeful. He pointed out that despite losses in key states, there should be a sense of optimism, especially following what he termed a successful first year of the Trump-Vance administration. This collaboration, alongside Speaker Mike Johnson, marks a turning point that Roberts believes is key for future campaigns. He stated, “You have to ignore sort of the naysayers and the doomsayers about conservative politicians losing the midterms.”
Looking toward the 2026 elections, Roberts emphasized the importance of articulating a clear and aspirational vision for America. He highlighted the need for conservatives to address substantive issues that resonate with the public. “What we’ve got to do for 2026 is articulate to the American people… what those policy priorities need to be; not just for the short term but for the long term,” he said. This new approach seems critical after observing failures in several major races, such as Jack Ciattarelli’s campaign in New Jersey.
Roberts pointed to pressing questions that need answers in the upcoming campaigns. Issues about the American family, workplace dignity, and the broader definition of what it means to be an American are at the forefront. He candidly acknowledged, “What’s the future, not just of immigration policy, but how can we assimilate the highest percentage of foreign-born population we’ve had in modern American history?” These are the kinds of difficult yet essential questions that establishment Washington often avoids.
His assessment is blunt: if the party continues to focus only on “sidebar issues,” the outcomes could be dire. It’s clear that, according to Roberts, conservatives must engage with the very real concerns of the American people to avoid repeating past mistakes. Roberts sees a path toward revitalization—a “good fusion of the best elements of populism” combined with traditional conservative values. This balance is essential as the party prepares for leadership transitions in the coming years.
As Roberts looks ahead to 2028, he notes that the core ideas of conservatism will need to evolve while retaining the spirit of Trump’s policies. “Whoever the standard-bearers are for conservatism in 2028… their policy ideas are going to sound a lot like Trump’s,” he explained, suggesting that while new leaders will bring their own perspectives, a foundation of shared principles should guide the way forward.
Roberts advocates for a proactive stance among conservatives, emphasizing the necessity for innovation alongside tradition. Those in positions of influence within the conservative movement must strive to engage with both longstanding ideas and new concepts. “Those of us who focus on ideas and policy for a living need to do our jobs zealously well,” he stated, reiterating the call for robust engagement with the pressing issues of our time.
Looking at the broader agenda for the Heritage Foundation in the coming years, Roberts pointed to several key focus areas: family, free enterprise, national security, and citizenship. He indicated a dual strategy of advocacy and campaigning, reflecting a commitment to not just articulate policies but to communicate them effectively to the American people. “What those particular places are where we can tell that story to the American people,” he said, pointing toward a grassroots strategy that will help frame the narrative of the conservative movement going forward.
Ultimately, the path forward will require a mix of courage and wisdom as conservatives navigate the complexities of the modern political landscape. As Roberts has laid out, if they can unite around a clear vision of their values and address the urgent questions facing America, the conservative movement may well reclaim its strength and influence in the years to come.
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