Pence’s appointment, effective immediately, marks a strategic pivot for both the former vice president and the think tank. Sources say he plans to leverage Heritage’s “Project 2025″—a 920-page presidential transition blueprint—into a “roadmap for the next conservative administration,” regardless of whether Donald Trump or another Republican wins in November. “Mike understands that ideas outlast elections,” said Heritage board chair Thomas Saunders, in what some interpreted as a subtle distancing from Trump’s volatile style.

The reaction split the GOP: Trump loyalists like Marjorie Taylor Greene mocked the move as “retirement for boring Republicans,” while establishment figures like Mitch McConnell praised Pence’s “intellectual heft.” Notably, Pence’s acceptance speech avoided any mention of his former running mate, focusing instead on “winning the war of ideas”—a phrase he repeated five times.

Insiders reveal Pence will use the role to amplify his advocacy for strict abortion bans, school choice, and aggressive China policies. His first act? A “Faith & Freedom” lecture series featuring potential VP picks like Kristi Noem and Tim Scott. As one trustee put it: “This isn’t an exit from politics—it’s a takeover of the machine that makes presidents.”