Fact-check analysisVerified as of July 18, 2025Curated by FactVerify
Misleading

Just remember, The Heritage Foundation is ACTUALLY running this country…

The Heritage Foundation is a conservative think tank that influences U.S. Policy and Republican administrations but does not literally run the country.

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Source: factverify.com

At a glance

Key Evidence

Verified July 18, 2025
The reporting

What the Evidence Shows

The claim that "The Heritage Foundation is ACTUALLY running this country" implies that this organization holds direct governing power or control over the United States government. The Heritage Foundation is a well-known conservative think tank founded in 1973 that promotes free enterprise, limited government, and traditional values. It has significant influence on Republican policy agendas and has been credited with shaping parts of the Trump administration's policies, including through initiatives like Project 2025.

However, it is not a government entity and does not have formal authority to govern or execute laws. Its role is advisory and advocacy-based, providing research, policy proposals, and strategic guidance to policymakers and political actors. While its influence can be substantial within certain political circles, the claim overstates its power by suggesting it runs the country in an official or controlling capacity.

This exaggeration can mislead by conflating influence with direct governance. Therefore, the statement contains a kernel of truth about influence but misrepresents the nature and extent of that influence.

Primary trail

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What is the Heritage Foundation, the group behind the terrifying Republican...

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