Full Breakdown
Corey DeAngelis Joins Heritage Foundation Amid Controversy
2/20/2026, 2:18:03 AM
Appointment of Corey DeAngelis
The Heritage Foundation has appointed Corey DeAngelis, a prominent advocate for school choice, as a fellow at its Center for Education Policy. This announcement, made on Thursday, has drawn attention due to DeAngelis's past as a gay adult film performer, where he appeared under the alias “Seth Rose.” Despite his controversial history, which includes participation in group and solo scenes, the Heritage Foundation has praised his research on education reform and his alignment with the organization's values. Acting director Jonathan Butcher expressed satisfaction with the hire, emphasizing DeAngelis's commitment to the foundation's educational goals.
Background and Context
DeAngelis's past resurfaced in 2024, leading to his departure from the American Federation for Children, where he previously served as a senior fellow. He has since described his past work in adult films as “embarrassing” and has framed the backlash against him as politically motivated. In interviews, DeAngelis has argued that critics are attempting to "cancel" him due to his conservative views, asserting that he will not allow this to derail his career.
Advocacy and Policy Goals
Corey DeAngelis has built a national profile by opposing LGBTQ inclusion in education, labeling it as part of a “woke mind virus.” His recent statements include characterizing LGBTQ+ inclusion in schools as “propaganda” aimed at controlling children’s minds. His appointment at the Heritage Foundation aligns with the organization's broader initiative, Project 2025, which seeks to reshape federal policies by removing terms like “sexual orientation” and “gender identity” from regulations.
Internal Dynamics at Heritage Foundation
The timing of DeAngelis's hire comes amid reported internal strife within the Heritage Foundation, including staff departures linked to tensions within the conservative movement. More than a dozen staff members have left to join former Vice President Mike Pence’s think tank, Advancing American Freedom. This internal turbulence follows controversial statements made by Heritage Foundation president Kevin Roberts in defense of Tucker Carlson's interview with antisemitic commentator Nick Fuentes.
Official Statements & Responses
In the announcement of his appointment, DeAngelis expressed his honor in joining the Heritage Foundation and reiterated his commitment to policies that empower families and expand school choice across the nation. The Heritage Foundation has not publicly addressed the implications of DeAngelis's past in their communications regarding his hire.
Criticism & Opposition
Critics have raised concerns about the Heritage Foundation's decision to hire DeAngelis, particularly given his controversial past and his stance on LGBTQ issues. The juxtaposition of his previous career and current advocacy has sparked debate within conservative circles about the implications for the organization's credibility and mission.
Verbatim Quotes
“Cancellation requires consent,” — Corey DeAngelis, Conservative Advocate
“just propaganda and a way for the left to control the minds of other people’s children.” — Corey DeAngelis, on Fox News
This appointment reflects a complex intersection of personal history and political advocacy, as the Heritage Foundation navigates its internal dynamics and broader conservative goals.
