Europe Is Preparing for Life Without America (w/ Richard Stengel) | How to Fix It

America's global reputation, which historically rose with popular presidents like Bill Clinton and Barack Obama, has plummeted significantly following the Iraq War and especially during the Trump administration. This decline is attributed to perceived unilateralism, a disregard for alliances, and a leadership style seen as 'bumptious and vulgar.' Despite efforts to declare 'America is back,' international partners question the longevity of US commitment, leading them to prepare for a future with less American leadership.

US popularity dropped into the 30s and 40s in most places during Trump's terms. Biden's 'America is back' was met with 'for how long?' from global publics. The 'America First' approach, despite campaigning on isolationism, led to war and further isolation.

In response to perceived US unreliability and Russian aggression, European nations like Britain and France are actively seeking to assume greater roles within NATO and develop their own defense capabilities. This shift, while an unintended consequence of US policy, aligns with long-standing American desires for allies to contribute more, but it also signifies a fundamental change in the global security architecture.

Stories emerged about the British and French trying to assume some of the US role in NATO. European nations have increased defense spending due to Vladimir Putin's actions in Ukraine, not solely due to US pressure.

The recent election in Hungary, which saw Victor Orban's party lose significant ground, is presented as a hopeful model for restoring democracy in states facing authoritarian consolidation and media capture. The opposition's success stemmed from a grassroots campaign focused on palpable issues like corruption, rather than abstract ideology, demonstrating that people ultimately desire self-governance and can find trusted information.

Victor Orban, an 'elected autocrat' and a model for the right (CPAC hero), oversaw a nation that is the poorest and most corrupt in the EU. The opposition, led by Mr. Magiar, campaigned directly to the people against corruption, resulting in a landslide victory that Orban conceded fairly.

To repair America's damaged reputation and effectively project its values, a future administration must undertake a comprehensive reform of public diplomacy. This includes restoring and strategically aligning USAID with foreign policy objectives, revitalizing global media outlets like Voice of America by focusing on specific audiences and embracing independent journalism, and leveraging the private sector's cultural influence (e.g., Taylor Swift) as a 'handmaiden' to government efforts.

USAID, which accounts for less than 1% of the budget, is a powerful tool for empathy and aid ('from the American people'). US global media (USAGM) was hobbled by the previous administration, but its 'secret sauce' was objective, self-critical reporting. The host and guest discuss the need to reconceive these efforts, focusing on specific countries and modern communication methods.