Heritage Foundation Leadership for America

WASHINGTON, AUG. 13, 2007—Karl Rove's resignation at the end of this month will mark the end of a political era, according to Ed Feulner, president of The Heritage Foundation, who today issued the following statement:

"We didn't agree on every issue, but Karl deserves praise for his strong commitment to conservative principles—and for his unquestionable talent at putting those principles into action.

"Karl was always willing to listen to alternative views and to seriously weigh their merits—a rare trait in Washington. Moreover, he was willing to be convinced if the arguments against his position were strong enough.

"In addition, he eschewed the "small bore" approach to politics and showed a welcome eagerness to tackle big ideas. He drove the debate over Social Security reform, for example, and he pushed to give individuals more choice in health care.

"And despite working in a city that treats politics as a contact sport, Karl adhered to the principle that policy differences should not be personalized. He believed in working with others by bringing different combinations of allies together on different issues.

"When the history of the George W. Bush administration is written, Karl Rove will rightfully take his place as one of the most effective ‘policy leaders inside government' of the last decade."