Onward! (Summary)

Posted2024-08-15

Updated2024-08-15

ByC. Sparks

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Author: Edwin J. Feulner

Summary:

The Mandate for Leadership was first conceived in 1979 by members of the Heritage Foundation, discussing the lack of conservative guidance in government roles.
The initiative was aimed at creating a conservative plan of action, with practical policy recommendations for a smaller, constitutional government and a robust national defense.
The guidebook aimed to assist incoming conservative administrations to implement changes and included more than 2,000 recommendations in its initial 1981 publication.
It had a significant influence on the Reagan Administration, helping to shape the “Reagan Revolution” and contributed to major policy shifts including tax reforms and national defense enhancements.
Subsequent editions of the Mandate continued to influence U.S. presidencies, including the Trump Administration which implemented 64% of the recommendations from the 2016 edition.
The chapter underscores the importance of proper personnel appointments in ensuring the success of the conservative agenda, as “people are policy.”
It ends with a call to “Onward!” emphasizing continual progress and vigilance in the conservative movement.

If fully implemented by the U.S. Government, the ideas could lead to significant reductions in government size and influence, promoting a free-market economy.
Potential revitalization of national defense and security measures, echoing past successes in ending the Cold War and enhancing U.S. military strength.
The emphasis on conservative staffing in governmental positions could shift the bureaucratic balance, potentially leading to rapid changes in federal policies and operations.
A stronger push towards conservative policies might further polarize the political landscape, especially if significant reversals of previous administrations’ policies occur.
Economic impacts could be significant, either positively through growth and reduced regulation or negatively if changes lead to instability or reduced social safety nets.