The United States is the dominant power in the world, with its military reach on land, sea, and in the air reaching every corner of the planet. Its economic strength fuels global trade and industry, and its political and cultural influence, a concept known as soft power, spreads the American way of life to people worldwide. But its unmatched power can engender resentment from its peers. The question is how to translate America’s overwhelming advantages into influence in the age of global politics.
Historically, foreign policy debates have focused on whether America should be multilateral or unilateral. The Supreme Court has ruled that the Constitution grants presidents the broad power to pursue American national interests. This authority extends to relations with foreign countries, so the executive branch has tended to overshadow Congress on matters of foreign policy. But many scholars say this dynamic is changing.
Many world events affect Americans directly, such as humanitarian crisis and conflict exacerbated by climate change; autocrats that challenge democracy from within; and the growing threat of small groups that can inflict massive harm. But tackling these challenges demands cooperation. In short, it requires a broad view of American interests and an approach that balances leadership and listening, giving as well as taking.
President Trump’s approach has been characterized as “America First,” but it risks leaving America weaker on the world stage. His actions have pushed away or threatened American allies and trade partners. He has weakened our ability to work with the United Nations and other international institutions, and his budget cuts have undermined US efforts to track and respond to global crises—including COVID-19 and climate change.