Brookings: Experts - Michael Fullilove

Obama Shows Commitment to Asia

Fri, 20 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

On the heels of President Obama's recent trip to Asia, Michael Fullilove reassures Australians about the United States' commitment to the Asia-Pacific, saying that they should take the president at face value when he says "Asia and the United States are not separated by this great ocean; we are bound by it."

Palin and Prejean Are Surprisingly Similar

Wed, 18 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Michael Fullilove comments on the new autobiographies by Sarah Palin, the former Republican vice-presidential candidate, and Carrie Prejean, the former California beauty pageant contestant. Despite the surprising similarities between these two conservative women and their books, Fullilove argues that, while Prejean's book may not be of great consequence, Palin's prominence in the Republican party makes her book an important read.

Obama’s Nobel Can Help Him Win a Bigger Prize

Wed, 14 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Michael Fullilove explores possible explanations as to why President Obama was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize, despite only being elected nine months prior. Fullilove contends that, while the award may be somewhat premature, it can make it harder for the world not to help should Obama ask for it.

America's Image Rebounds

Tue, 13 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Over recent years, politicians and analysts inside and outside the United States contended that America’s popularity was in terminal decline. Michael Fullilove and Fergus Hanson explore new public opinion data showing quite the opposite – a quick return to a positive image of the United States around the world.

President Obama and Australian President Rudd Sounded Good in Pittsburgh

Tue, 29 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Michael Fullilove writes that the UN General Assembly in New York and G-20 Summit in Pittsburgh proved fruitful for the United States and Australia. Fullilove notes both Obama and Rudd are tough diplomats who believe national interests are better pursued in concert with others, and he concludes the recent meetings bolstered their ideas and goals.

The Case for Australia's UN Security Council Bid

Wed, 23 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

More than a year ago, Australian Prime Minister Kevin Rudd announced his country’s candidacy for a non-permanent seat on the UN Security Council for 2013-2014. Michael Fullilove breaks down the arguments of critics of the plan, provides a look at public opinion, and explains why UN Security Council membership is in Australia's best interest.

Kim Beazley is the Right Man for Australian Ambassador to the United States

Fri, 18 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Australia's Prime Minister Kevin Rudd recently appointed Kim Beazley the next ambassador to the United States. Michael Fullilove says it is a savvy move at an important time. Fullilove outlines various reasons as to why Beazley can help strengthen the Australia-U.S. relationship and notes several challenges including the ongoing war in Afghanistan.

Obama Claims Middle Ground on Health

Fri, 11 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

As the heated health care debate continues, Michael Fullilove weighs in on President Barack Obama's recent address to a joint session of Congress. Fullilove argues that President Obama's speech showed passion, clarity and strength, and that it will give lawmakers a necessary push towards a positive middle ground as the final bill takes shape.

Global Warming and War Both Require Sacrifice

Tue, 08 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Though there are many differences between climate change and wars like the one in Afghanistan, Michael Fullilove considers the similarities and how each impacts Australia and the world. Fullilove argues that both require global cooperation and that the surest way to failure is for countries to stand on the sidelines instead of being involved.

Rudd and Obama’s Friendship Bolsters the Australia-U.S. Alliance

Tue, 11 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Michael Fullilove examines the Australia-U.S. alliance under Barack Obama and Kevin Rudd. Fullilove believes Obama's popularity in Australia has brought renewed domestic support to the alliance and that the personal relationship between leaders is strong, but he also cautions there will be challenges ahead.

Barack Obama, Kevin Rudd and the Australia-U.S. Alliance

Tue, 11 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Over the past decade, much of the commentary on the Australia-U.S. alliance has focused on how the conservative leaders of both nations formulated policy. Michael Fullilove and Michael O'Hanlon analyze the developing relationship between Democratic President Barack Obama and Labor Prime Minister Kevin Rudd and how it may reshape the alliance.

The West Can Win in Afghanistan

Tue, 28 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Though there have been increased attacks, growing casualties and falling popular support, Michael Fullilove and Anthony Bubalo write that Afghanistan is still winnable. They believe the Obama administration has done well by increasing resources and refocusing on what can be achieved, and say there is too much at stake for the West to conclude Afghanistan is the graveyard of foreign armies and depart.

Obama the Pop President?

Sat, 20 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Michael Fullilove examines why President Obama enjoys remarkable international prestige and how it relates to his international agenda. Fullilove identifies four main themes in Obama's foreign policy to date, and reminds the president to demonstrate that there are significant costs to be incurred for opposing him on important issues.

Obama's Cairo Speech Could Make the World a Safer Place

Fri, 05 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

President Obama’s speech in Cairo has been heralded as a historic moment in redefining and reorienting the U.S. approach to the Muslim world. Michael Fullilove examines the issues, themes and tone of Obama’s speech while exploring the implications of the speech for U.S.-Muslim relations, particularly in reference to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

How Obama Divides—and Conquers

Sat, 16 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Michael Fullilove writes that President Obama has gotten off to a remarkably sure-footed start on foreign policy, while confusing both his foreign and domestic opponents. Fullilove examines and debunks the conservative arguments that have surfaced against Obama during his first months in office.

Send the Envoy: Obama's Diplomatic Posse

Thu, 12 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

In the Obama administration, special envoys are likely to play a central role in U.S. foreign policy. But Michael Fullilove notes the president should remember that envoys are not the creators of policy, but rather its instruments.

Forget Freedom. Build the Economy.

Sun, 08 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Michael Fullilove reviews Great Powers: America and the World After Bush, by Thomas P.M. Barnett. Fullilove finds that while Barnett has some interesting insights, a believable grand strategy is lacking.

Barack Obama: President of the World

Wed, 04 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT

President Barack Obama's personal experience of globalization makes him a very different American leader compared to those of the past, writes Michael Fullilove.

Fine Speech for an Extraordinary Historical Moment

Thu, 22 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Obama’s Biggest Speech Yet

Fri, 16 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT

A president's inaugural address provides the incoming U.S. leader with an opportunity to lay out his ideas, plans and governing approach before the American people and the world. Michael Fullilove presents lessons from history for President Obama and his speechwriters about the relationship between presidential language and the president's future policies.

Reports of U.S. Decline Could Be Premature

Wed, 07 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Michael Fullilove explores the idea that the U.S. is in decline as a world power and what an Obama presidency may do to challenge the idea. Fullilove argues that the U.S. does face formidable challenges, but that most countries still look to America for leadership and answers.

Capitol Hill Needs Old Codgers, Spring Chickens and a Middle-Aged Spread

Fri, 19 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Michael Fullilove analyzes the age dilemma in Washington and notes the average age of a U.S. senator is 62—a full quarter of a century older than the average age of a U.S. citizen. However, there are growing signs—like the younger appointments to the Obama administration—that the American gerontocracy is crumbling at the edges.

Obama's First Trip as President

Mon, 15 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT

During the presidential campaign, Barack Obama promised that in the first 100 days of his administration he would "travel to a major Islamic forum and deliver an address to redefine our struggle." Michael Fullilove suggests there is no better place than Indonesia.

Obama's Foreign Policy

Wed, 10 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Michael Fullilove argues that there are several lessons about the international system that President-elect Barack Obama could learn from cricket.

Australia Will Have to Vie for Obama's Attention

Mon, 17 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

The world is excited to turn the page on the Bush administration and begin working anew with President-elect Obama, but Michael Fullilove notes that the new president's popularity means the Australia-U.S. relationship could be lost in the crush.

What the G-20 Wants

Thu, 13 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

World leaders gathered in Washington, D.C. to respond to the international financial crisis. The Managing Global Insecurity project and The Chicago Council on Global Affairs hosted a special online forum of global perspectives on the summit. The result is an intriguing glimpse into pivotal issues that will continue to dominate discussions about the crisis.

Foreign Policy Challenges for Barack Obama

Wed, 12 Nov 2008 13:39:10 GMT

While the outcome of the U.S. presidential election was largely shaped by the U.S. and global financial crisis, Brookings Visiting Fellow Michael Fullilove discusses several urgent foreign policy matters facing President-elect Barack Obama.

After Bush: How to Repair U.S. Alliances

Tue, 04 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Michael Fullilove notes that either John McCain or Barack Obama will have to work hard to reinvigorate America's alliances. He believes that is important for the U.S. to listen to its allies on all global challenges and that allies of the U.S. must do the same.

A World of Policy Differences Between John McCain and Barack Obama

Sat, 01 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Michael Fullilove analyzes the differences between the foreign policies of U.S. presidential hopefuls John McCain and Barack Obama.

Why Kissinger Should Support Obama

Thu, 30 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Michael Fullilove assesses the differences between the foreign policy of John McCain and Barack Obama. Fullilove argues that a President Obama would maintain the return to realism that has been seen as the second Bush administration comes to a close.

Hope or Glory? The Presidential Election and U.S. Foreign Policy

Fri, 24 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

The contest between Senators John McCain and Barack Obama for the presidency of the United States is being followed intently around the world. Michael Fullilove examines the foreign policy differences between the two candidates and explores how international perceptions of the U.S. may shift following the election.

Picking the U.S. Winner: A Question of Hope or Glory

Thu, 23 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Michael Fullilove analyzes the foreign policy stances of Senator’s John McCain and Barack Obama in relation to Australia's interests throughout the world.

Politicians Cry Poor as They Dig Deep for Log Cabins

Tue, 02 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Michael Fullilove reflects on speeches at the 2008 Democratic National Convention in which many speakers focused on their own humble beginnings.

Star Power Fades When it Comes to Politics

Thu, 21 Aug 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Michael Fullilove assesses Hollywood's infatuation with certain candidates running for president. He argues that celebrity activism will have little real effect on this year’s race and that both candidates are better off staying above it all.

Hawk vs Talk: America’s Foreign Policy Choice

Thu, 07 Aug 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Michael Fullilove describes the foreign policy choice facing Americans in the forthcoming presidential election, and how experts often get this question wrong.

Obama Takes to World Stage

Wed, 23 Jul 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Michael Fullilove discusses Senator Obama's trip throught the Middle East and Europe and what it can do for his campaign. Bringing the foreign policy debate to the fore-front of the presidential race could benefit Senator Obama writes Fullilove.

Kevin Rudd Steps Out Into the World with Elan

Mon, 14 Jul 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Michael Fullilove discusses Australian prime minister Kevin Rudd's government. Fullilove believes that in his first six months in office, Rudd has taken a strong, energetic approach to foreign affairs -- something which his predecessor was unable to do.

Review of "Counselor: A Life at the Edge of History"

Sat, 21 Jun 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Michael Fullilove reviews Counselor: A Life at the Edge of Histoy, a memoir by President John F Kennedy's speechwriter and adviser Ted Sorensen. Fullilove also draws comparisons to close assistants of presidents past and present.

Exaggerating America's Decline

Wed, 18 Jun 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Despite claims that the United States is on the decline as a superpower, Michael Fullilove writes that the idea of America continues to fascinate the world. He notes that in all areas the U.S. is still the global leader, and perhaps most importantly, "America is powerful because it is smart".

Chinese Diaspora Carries Torch for Old Country

Mon, 19 May 2008 00:00:00 GMT

China's growing influence can be tied, at least partially, to the country's diaspora of tens of millions of Chinese, writes Michael Fullilove. He believes that the diaspora is not of particular concern to the world community as long as the aggressive nationalism often present during the lead-up to the Beijing Olympics does not continue into the future.

Democrats Need Quick End to Infighting

Wed, 07 May 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Michael Fullilove offers insight into the continuing Democratic nomination process. He believes that while both candidates would be formidable in the general election, the fight needs to end sooner rather than later.

Il neonazionalismo della diaspora

Thu, 01 May 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Michael Fullilove writes about China’s expanding clout in southeast and northeast Asia, its thickening ties with U.S. treaty allies, its emerging influence in resource-rich countries, its role in the new Asian institutions and its quickening interactions with the United Nations. (Italian)

U.S. Presidential Elections: Talk Might Be Cheap, But a Great Speech is Divine

Mon, 21 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Michael Fullilove offers insight into Senator Barack Obama's skills as an orator, and how those skills might transfer to the presidency. While Obama's competitors often argue that they are doers instead of talkers, Fullilove notes this campaign "will reveal what kind of premium attaches, in a 21st-century election, to the pro-speech candidate."

U.S.-Australia Alliance Goes Back to Business First with Kevin Rudd

Fri, 04 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Michael Fullilove details Kevin Rudd's first official trip to the United States as prime minister of Australia. Despite ideological differences between the prime minister and his predecessor, Fullilove notes "Rudd also signaled that the alliance relies primarily on shared interests and values, not personalities."

Australian Prime Minister Kevin Rudd's Visit to the United States

Fri, 28 Mar 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Michael Fullilove joins Australian Broadcasting Corporation Radio to discuss Australian prime minister Kevin Rudd's visit to the United States and what it might mean for continued relations between the two countries.