A new book by the primary designer of Project 2025, a highly controversial policy agenda for a potential second Trump term, employs vivid fire-themed imagery to describe efforts to overhaul U.S. institutions deemed at odds with conservative goals. The author urges conservatives to “burn away the rot” within institutions including the FBI, New York Times, Ivy League colleges, and even the Boy Scouts of America.
The release of this book follows a White House call to “bring down the temperature” after a heated election in which Donald Trump defeated Kamala Harris. However, the rhetoric in Dawn’s Early Light: Taking Back Washington to Save America, penned by Heritage Foundation president Kevin Roberts, suggests the opposite. The book advocates a “long, controlled burn” to target agencies and organizations that Roberts claims are obstacles to conservative values.
Blending classical references with fire metaphors, Roberts argues that American institutions have become “decadent and hollow,” serving only to maintain the power of elites at the expense of the public. He suggests that instead of reforming these institutions, conservatives should dismantle them to pave the way for new, patriotic institutions. The author lists specific targets, including the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, the Department of Education, the World Economic Forum, and BlackRock—a significant investor in Trump’s media company.
Roberts’ choice of language has drawn attention, especially given Project 2025’s aim to implement sweeping federal changes, including purging government agencies and implementing policies that impact women and LGBTQ+ communities. Critics warn that this kind of rhetoric could provoke division rather than healing, especially following an election period marked by political tension.
With the book’s official release next week, Roberts’ fiery rhetoric is likely to fuel further debate. His message, however, is clear: he believes that fundamental change is necessary for a conservative resurgence, framing it as part of a “New Conservative Movement” that aims to reclaim American tradition. Despite his inflammatory language, Roberts insists that he stands for “creation, not destruction,” in contrast to progressives, whom he accuses of seeking to dismantle the existing order.