Spending this past week in the Middle East with a delegation from around the globe has been a powerful reminder of the United States unique role in the world. Because we still have the worlds biggest economy (by far), and because we still have the worlds biggest military (by far), were constantly faced with the question and the choice of what responsibility comes with that power? Hearing various perspectives and engaging in conversations this past week has underscored two sentiments for me: 1) The United States must lead in the world, using our unique position to help more people achieve more freedom, greater economic empowerment, and fewer violations of their human rights. If we reject this responsibility, who do we then leave to fill that vacuum? 2) In order to lead and in order to be strong in the world, absolutely we must first be strong at home. Addressing domestic issues like poverty, lack of educational equity, wage stagnation, and income inequality isnt just the right thing to do - it also enables the prosperity to ensure our own national security and so that those beyond our borders can also live their lives free from fear and able to pursue their own dreams. In short, if we get back to making the American Dream real at home, it can also be our greatest export.
Posted on: Mon, 18 Aug 2014 10:39:22 +0000