Heritage-affiliated antisemitism task force to end partnership with think tank
The National Task Force to Combat Antisemitism has decided to sever ties with the Heritage Foundation, expanding its efforts to address antisemitism from across the political spectrum. The move comes as the conservative think tank faces criticism for defending Tucker Carlson after his cordial interview with neo-Nazi figure Nick Fuentes.
According to an email sent Thursday and reviewed by Jewish Insider, the task force co-chairs stated that they will continue their activities “outside the Heritage Foundation for a season.” The group emphasized its ongoing commitment to counter antisemitism in all forms.
“We hope that one day we’ll be able to collaborate with Heritage again,” said a task force member, who spoke anonymously due to the sensitivity of the discussions.
The National Task Force was originally established after the Hamas attacks of October 7, 2023. It played a central role in creating Project Esther, the Heritage Foundation’s key framework for addressing antisemitism, which was developed as part of a response to the Biden administration’s strategy on the issue.
Background
- The task force was conceived in the wake of the 2023 Hamas attacks.
- Its creation followed Heritage’s launch of Project Esther, intended to counter rising antisemitism.
- The separation marks a shift toward greater independence and widening the scope of its initiatives.
Author’s summary: The National Task Force to Combat Antisemitism has ended its affiliation with the Heritage Foundation to pursue a broader, more independent effort against antisemitism across the political spectrum.