Trump insults Project 2025 author amid political tensions

Robert F. Kennedy Jr., a former independent presidential candidate and current member of Donald Trump’s presidential transition team, revealed that Trump has not read Project 2025 and referred to its author as a 'right-wing a******.' Kennedy shared this information during an appearance on the All-In podcast, stating that Trump only became aware of the document after Democrats began linking him to it. The 900-page agenda, developed by the Heritage Foundation, outlines a far-right vision for a conservative presidency, including significant changes to the U.S. government structure. Despite having a longstanding relationship with the Heritage Foundation, Trump has distanced himself from Project 2025, claiming ignorance about its authors and content. The document was largely drafted under Paul Dans, a former chief of staff in the Trump administration, and has been criticized for its radical proposals. A CNN analysis indicated that at least 140 individuals who previously worked for Trump contributed to the project. The Trump campaign has consistently asserted that Project 2025 does not represent Trump’s agenda, labeling any personnel lists or policy suggestions as mere recommendations. This distancing is partly a response to Democratic campaigns that have highlighted the document's unpopular ideas, using them to argue against Trump’s potential re-election. Kennedy emphasized that Trump is open to a broader range of perspectives within his transition team, which is tasked with selecting appointees for an incoming administration. This approach reflects an effort to navigate the political landscape while addressing the criticisms stemming from Project 2025's proposals.