America’s Public Diplomacy at a Crossroads
Matthew Wallin / Medium
The United States’ public diplomacy has once again reached a point of turbulence due to flawed government systems at home and abroad. Solving this problem is a matter of engaging our private and public sector leaders as well as citizens.
Egypt and the Process of Democracy
Ta-Nehisi Coates / The Atlantic
Although many would argue the ousting of Mohamed Morsi was a necessary step for the people of Egypt, democracy has not found its proper place in the country yet due to increased military action.
Wonkbook: The Secret Surveillance Court is Making Secret Surveillance Laws
Ezra Klein & Evan Soltas / Washington Post
A system of checks and balances has always been a cornerstone of American politics, but when it comes to matters of intelligence, the issue is not as cut and dry.
Dave Camp Eyes Potential Democratic Allies on Tax Reform
Kelsey Snell / Politico
As Ways and Means Committee Chairmen Dave Camp begins lobbying support for his tax reform bill, he relies on a select group of House Minority members for support.
Scrambling for Student Loan Rate Fix
Burgess Everett / Politico
A solution to the doubled student loan rates appears to still be in the distance as opposing groups blame each other for the lack of action.
Obama’s Climate Action Plan Will Create Jobs: Study
Matt Twomey / CNBC
A new study from Natural Resources Defense Council counters the Chamber of Commerce’s claim that President Obama’s Climate Action Plan will result in “higher energy bills [and] fewer jobs”
It’s Not Just the Employer Mandate: Three Obamacare Delays You Haven’t Heard About
Sarah Kliff / Washington Post
The gearing up for Obamacare has been underway for quite some time. However, as time draws closer for many key provisions, the Administration has slowed down its progress due to technology and oversight.
On Our Flashpoint Blog
Against the Global Trend: Pakistan’s Reversal on Climate Change Policy
Evan Meltzer
In a country vulnerable to floods, cyclones, and drought, Pakistan is currently “bucking the trend” when it comes to combating global climate change, according to a recent Dawn newspaper article.
The Other Pivot to Asia: Rosneft Signs Major Oil Deal with China
Warren Dym
There is another pivot to Asia the U.S. should consider, and that is Russia’s. The faltering European economy and global impact of American shale gas – including Middle Eastern liquefied natural gas (LNG) once destined for the U.S. now heading to Europe, and the expectation of U.S. LNG exports there – are compelling Russia to reconsider its strategy for Europe and forge closer ties with China.
Senators Express Support for Fusion Power
William Joyce
Within the Senate markup of the Energy and Water Development Appropriations Bill on June 27, Senator Mary K. Landrieu of Louisiana and Senator Lamar Alexander of Tennessee spoke highly of fusion energy research. Amidst rampant budget cuts throughout all areas of government, it is great to see several Senators like Alexander, Landrieu, and Feinstein defending fusion energy’s role as a critical national interest.
Bare Bases on Foreign Lands – The First Step in Defense Efficiency?
Adin Dobkin
Depending on whom you ask, the United States currently maintains a force of nearly 300,000 troops stationed overseas. Although the majority of these troops are fighting in the War on Terror, we also maintain 135,000 troops in fully staffed bases in stable and friendly areas.
Energy Security for Europe: the Trans-Adriatic Pipeline (TAP)
Warren Dym
The partnership working the Shah Deniz gas play in the Caspian Sea announced its decision today for the Trans-Adriatic Pipeline (TAP) to Italy. The TAP will be the last leg connecting Caspian gas to Europe over Azerbaijan, Georgia, Turkey, Albania, and Greece.
Upcoming Events
Restoring American Competitiveness: A National Security Crisis
Recent reports by the American Security Project and the Harvard Business School reveal that American competitiveness is slipping, posing a serious threat to our country’s national security. Join our panel of experts as they discuss these challenges and potential solutions to restore America to a position of global leadership in the 21st century.
The panel will take place Wednesday, July 10th from 1:00-2:00 pm in Cannon House Office Building, Independence Ave and New Jersey Ave, SE, Room 122
If you would like to attend, please email events@americansecurityproject.org by July 8 to RSVP
The Case for American Competitiveness: A Reception
ASP and the HBS Club of DC are proud to co-sponsor a reception for HBS professor Dr. Jan Rivkin, as well as prominent military leaders. This reception culminates the American Competitiveness Day to inform a bipartisan discourse on Capitol Hill. The reception will take place on Wednesday, July 10th from 6:00-8:00 pm in the Alliance Bernstein Board Room, 800 Connecticut Ave, NW, Suite 1001.
Cost is $35 for members and $60 for non-members
Tickets can be purchased at www.hbsclubwdc.net/store.html?event_id=596
