Oppose John Bolton
Naming an ideologue with open disdain for the UN to be U.S. Ambassador to the U.N. sends the wrong signal to the international community at precisely the wrong time. As the United States confronts crises around the world, it also faces unprecedented hostility from abroad. Polling consistently show that even citizens of our strongest allies now hold an unfavorable view of the United States. These perceptions undermine our security because none of our nation’s problems can be dealt with alone. President George W. Bush has said he is committed to “effective multilateralism” and global institutions that support transnational work. If President Bush and Secretary of State Rice are serious about reassuring our allies and rebuilding alliances, why pick Bolton?
In the wake of the Iraq war, we can no longer afford go it alone policies. The United States today faces a intimidating array of international crises: the global war on terror, nuclear weapons in Iran and North Korea, and post war violence and reconstruction in Iraq and Afghanistan. In addition, other transnational problems that have received insufficient attention or resources during the past decade – including global warming, human rights, the spread of HIV/AIDS, and economic development – now pose grave risks.
None of these critical issues can be meaningfully and adequately addressed by the United States alone. Each requires the willing and full participation of allies and international institutions. Failing to engage these indispensable partners will make U.S. efforts less effective, and jeopardize the stability, security, prosperity, and health of Americans. John Bolton is the wrong man to forge the alliances and consensuses needed to address these vital challenges. His nomination would only exacerbate America’s global isolation at a time when it desperately needs allies.
The President will send the wrong message to his allies and friends if Bolton, an ardent isolationist, is appointed as U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations. This appointment could prove disastrous to U.S. national security interests.