What does the 2016 election mean for America’s future position in the world? It’s likely too early to tell at this stage of the campaign cycle. Many of the early Republican contenders — such as Jeb Bush and Scott Walker — have been relatively quiet on foreign policy issues or have focused almost exclusively on Iran, Israel, and Russia. That’s to be expected at this point. Yet, other candidates — like Marco Rubio and Lindsey Graham — are already outlining a more comprehensive vision for advancing American interests. This includes promoting prosperous and stable societies, combatting violent extremism, and opening up new markets for US goods and services. One would expect Hillary Clinton, as a former Secretary of State, to emphasize many of these priorities as well, even if she hasn’t said much yet. Regardless of whoever wins the 2016 election, he or she will inherit the same responsibility: to protect the American people and promote their prosperity. Within that context, US development policies will play a pivotal role.
Please make sure to join us next Monday, July 20, at 3 p.m. for a high-level panel discussion about global development and the 2016 election. The panel will include Michael Elliott, President and CEO of the ONE Campaign; Tony Fratto, Partner, Hamilton Place Strategies and former US Treasury and White House official; Tom Nides, former Deputy Secretary of State in the Obama Administration; and CGD’s President, Nancy Birdsall. Space will be limited, so please RSVP as soon as possible.
The Center for Global Development also will be launching its flagship product, The White House and the World 2016. It includes over a dozen practical ideas for the next US president. They cover a wide array of development issues, such as investment, migration, trade, gender, foreign aid, health, climate, and energy poverty, as well as ensuring that US development institutions remain fit for purpose. Each of these ideas — at little or no extra cost to US taxpayers — can make a major difference. Together, as part of a broader strategic vision of promoting prosperity abroad, they can deliver a more secure future both for Americans and for the world’s most vulnerable people. Hard copies will be available at the July 20th event.
Updated 7/17/15 to add Tony Fratto as a panelist; Steve Hadley is unable to attend.
Disclaimer
CGD blog posts reflect the views of the authors, drawing on prior research and experience in their areas of expertise. CGD is a nonpartisan, independent organization and does not take institutional positions.
