A nation must think before it acts.
One year ago, at the start of the Trump presidency, we argued that if the administration’s goal is truly to “Make America Great Again,” then it would be a mistake for the United States to abandon its long-standing support of democracy abroad.
Now, only twelve months later, we are deeply concerned to see America’s “greatness” visibly diminished by the continuing erosion of democracy both at home and abroad. Respect for the United States has plummeted globally, as shown by recent international polling.
Furthermore, our own system of government and those of our closest democratic allies are under systematic attack by foreign adversaries. Yet, instead of providing an effective response, our president dismisses the importance of democracy abroad, talks down our alliances with like-minded countries, and has yet to hold a cabinet session on these threats.