The Democratic presidential candidates are growing more vocal about foreign policy issues, especially Russia, as they seek to distinguish themselves from their rivals and from Trump.
Among contenders who will speak Tuesday night in Detroit Tuesday night, Senators Elizabeth Warren and Bernie Sanders have the most detailed positions. Warren pledges to curb the role of defense contractors in the Pentagon. Sanders continues his long-standing criticism of the military budget. Author Marianne Williamson is going big, challenging the very mode of thinking that justifies the military industrial complex.
For former Texas Rep. Beto O’Rourke war is issue. In recent weeks he has been vocal about the threat of war with Iran. South Bend Mayor Pete Buttigieg denounces the lengthy war in Afghanistan in which he served, and laments the lack of congressional oversight of U.S. war powers.
Minnesota Sen. Amy Klobuchar is the most outspoken about Russia. She asserts “electoral integrity” is a vital national security issue, and she’s not just talking about Russia.
Former Colorado Gov. John Hickenlooper is throwing barbs about Trump’s trade war. Ohio Rep. Tim Ryan, whose foreign policy campaigning has been expanding to Trump’s relationship with North Korean dictator Kim Jong Un. Maryland Rep. John Delaney emphasizes the value of strong alliances in foreign policy.
Montana Gov. Steve Bullock, whose 2020 debate debut may shine some light on his unknown foreign-policy views.
See also: Insider’s Guide to the 2020 Democrats on War, Peace, and Security
