Paul Dans, the director of the Heritage Foundation's Project 2025, has stepped down amid criticism and efforts by Donald Trump's campaign to disassociate from the controversial plan. Project 2025, which aims to significantly expand presidential powers and replace federal employees with political appointees, has been condemned by Democrats as extreme and authoritarian. Despite Trump's repeated disavowals, many former Trump administration officials contributed to the blueprint. Heritage Foundation President Kevin Roberts stated that the project has completed its policy drafting phase but will continue its personnel efforts. Trump's campaign welcomed the reports of Project 2025's demise and warned against misrepresenting its influence with Trump. The controversy surrounding the project remains a focal point for both critics and supporters as the election approaches.