“America First” has become synonymous with Donald Trump’s foreign and domestic policy approach. While critics often label it as isolationist or unilateral, former U.S. Representative Tulsi Gabbard has offered a different interpretation, arguing that “America First” does not mean “America Alone.” According to Gabbard, this policy, when rightly understood, signifies prioritizing national interest without abandoning international cooperation or global responsibility.
Tulsi Gabbard, a veteran and prominent political figure known for her independent stance, believes that Trump’s “America First” mantra is misunderstood. She contends that putting one’s country first is not only natural for any responsible leader but also essential for national security and prosperity. However, Gabbard emphasizes that prioritizing America’s interests should not translate to alienating allies or ignoring global responsibilities. Rather, it means engaging with the world in a way that benefits American citizens, promotes peace, and fosters win-win partnerships.
Gabbard highlights that every world leader, from small nations to global superpowers, inherently puts their own country first. This doesn’t imply hostility towards others, but rather, a commitment to the welfare of their own people. Similarly, when the United States adopts “America First,” it is doing what every sovereign nation does: pursuing its best interest. The challenge is to do this while maintaining respect for other nations, acknowledging their interests, and finding common ground.
One key aspect that Gabbard points out is the distinction between “America First” and isolationism. She argues that Trump’s administration, despite its “America First” rhetoric, did not isolate the U.S. from global affairs. In fact, the Trump administration engaged in numerous international negotiations, trade deals, and peace talks. For instance, the Abraham Accords — peace agreements between Israel, the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, and later Sudan and Morocco — were brokered under Trump’s leadership. These accords demonstrated that “America First” could coexist with active global diplomacy.
Another example lies in trade relations. Trump’s renegotiation of the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) into the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) showcased a desire to protect American workers while fostering continued trade and cooperation with neighboring countries. Tulsi Gabbard praises such efforts, suggesting that “America First” should focus on securing favorable conditions for American industries and workers without severing economic ties or starting unnecessary conflicts.
However, Gabbard has also been critical of how “America First” was sometimes misused or misunderstood as a license for confrontation. She has warned that unilateral actions, trade wars without careful diplomacy, and abrupt policy shifts can create confusion and alienate allies. For “America First” to succeed, according to Gabbard, it needs to be anchored in diplomatic maturity, long-term strategy, and mutual respect.
Furthermore, Gabbard stresses that “America First” must include ending endless wars. A veteran herself, she has consistently argued for an end to regime-change wars and unnecessary military interventions. She believes that true national interest lies in strengthening the homeland, investing in infrastructure, education, healthcare, and focusing military efforts strictly on defending the nation, not policing the world. In her view, Trump’s emphasis on withdrawing troops from prolonged conflicts aligned with this philosophy, although she feels that more could have been done to bring about lasting peace.
Tulsi Gabbard also discusses the need for global cooperation on challenges that transcend borders, such as climate change, pandemics, and terrorism. She acknowledges that “America First” cannot ignore these threats. Instead, it should involve working with other nations, but in ways that ensure America’s security and prosperity come first. Gabbard argues that smart leadership involves creating alliances based on mutual benefit rather than dependence.
In conclusion, Tulsi Gabbard’s interpretation of “America First” offers a more nuanced understanding than what critics typically present. She envisions it as a policy of prioritizing American citizens while maintaining strong international relations and fostering global stability. Gabbard’s message is clear: “America First” should never become “America Alone.” Rather, it should embody leadership, strength, and responsible engagement with the world. For the United States to thrive, it must stand up for its own people while also standing together with the global community on common challenges, guided by wisdom and integrity.
