What does “America first” mean for America’s allies and for our not so friendly relationships around the world?
America has typically tried to keep its friends close, and its enemies –well, somewhat close. The U.S. needs to protect its interests around the world. And America strives to use its military might and economic power wisely to help those in need. National interests versus global citizenship?
Some say America is not the world’s policeman, that the American taxpayer cannot be the world’s 911 service–while others think it is not doing enough to stop bad actors.
Enemies, friends and frenemies: When is America first?
Today, Pakistan and Saudi Arabia are in the in between category that poses dilemmas for American diplomats. Does America pressure about human rights abuses, or put that aside to build relationships with those we disagree with–but still need?
Hamilton and Jefferson, our trusty dynamic duo, had opposing opinions about who the US should cozy up to. In their time, the US was caught in the middle of a war between France and Great Britain. Hamilton favored America’s cultural heir Great Britain, while Jefferson was an ardent supporter of France, our ally in gaining independence.
Charles de Gaulle once said that nations have “no permanent alliances, only permanent interests.” I think that’s apt.
For more on what America first means today and America’s allies, check out our YouTube video.
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