Should the United States remain actively engaged in the world—or adopt a more restrained, nationalist approach? This powerful question took center stage at AJC Global Forum’s signature session, the Great Debate moderated by Jason Isaacson, AJC Chief Policy and Political Affairs Officer.

Should the United States remain actively engaged in the world or adopt a more restrained, nationalist approach? This question took center stage in AJC Global Forum’s signature session, the AJC Great Debate: "America First" or America Alone? Bill Kristol, esteemed political analyst, Editor at Large of The Bulwark, and a leading conservative thinker, and Ellie Cohanim, Deputy Special Envoy to Monitor and Combat Antisemitism (2019-21).

As authoritarian regimes grow more assertive and the international order faces mounting pressure—from rising antisemitism to strategic threats posed by global powers—how can democracies respond with vision and resolve?

At a time of rising antisemitism and global uncertainty following Hamas’ October 7, 2023, attack on Israel, there are some bold elected leaders who have spoken out with courage and conviction.