Director Steps Down Amid Controversy: Project 2025 Faces Political Heat

Paul Dans, director of the conservative policymaking group Project 2025, has stepped down amidst growing criticism from Democrats and campaign challenges for Donald Trump. The project, organized by the Heritage Foundation, seeks to expand presidential power and proposes other hard-right policies, creating political headaches for Trump.

Paul Dans, the director of Project 2025, a conservative policymaking group, has resigned amid intensifying criticism from Democrats and complicating factors for Donald Trump's presidential campaign. The group, known for advocating significant expansions of presidential power, has become a liability for Trump.

Trump's campaign has distanced itself from Project 2025, despite many of his close allies being involved. Co-campaign managers Chris LaCivita and Susie Wiles expressed relief at the potential end of the project, though it remains active. The Heritage Foundation, which organizes the initiative, confirmed Dans' departure without providing reasons.

Project 2025 has drawn Democratic scrutiny and public backlash, turning into a symbol of the extreme political shift they associate with a potential Trump presidency. The group's proposals include curbing the Justice Department's independence and eliminating the Department of Education. Work on the project, led by the Heritage Foundation, will continue as initially planned, concluding after the Democratic National Convention.

(With inputs from agencies.)