Former Defense Secretary Robert Gates on the Role of the Military

Former Defense Secretary Robert Gates spoke about American leadership in international affairs during a virtual event hosted by the Chicago Council on Global Affairs. While discussing his book, Exercise of Power: American Failures, Successes, and a New Path Forward in the Post-Cold War World," Secretary Gates, who served under Presidents George Bush and Barack Obama, was critical of past nation building efforts saying, “you can’t impose democracy.” He also addressed what he called America’s diminishing reputation abroad, saying the country’s leadership is “seen as incompetent,” because of its inability to address issues such as the coronavirus, an economic downturn, and racial disparities. Other topics addressed included China’s growing influence, cyber threats facing the U.S., and the 2020 presidential election. close