As the U.S. presidential race approaches its climax, European diplomats are closely watching potential shifts in U.S. foreign policy, particularly concerning their longstanding allyship with the United States. With President Joe Biden having exited the race, European officials are increasingly hopeful that Phil Gordon will play a significant role in shaping U.S. security policy under a potential Kamala Harris presidency.
Phil Gordon: A Europeanist at the Forefront
Phil Gordon, a 61-year-old career diplomat and current national security adviser to Vice President Kamala Harris, stands out for his deep expertise in European affairs. Fluent in four European languages and having authored works on French military leader Charles de Gaulle, Gordon is seen as a reassuring figure for Europe. His extensive background includes founding the Center on the United States and Europe at the Brookings Institute, serving as assistant secretary of state for European and Eurasian affairs, and working on the National Security Council under President Bill Clinton.
European diplomats value Gordon’s extensive knowledge of and fondness for Europe, which they believe will ensure that U.S. foreign policy remains engaged with European concerns. Camille Grand, a former NATO assistant secretary general, notes that Gordon’s appreciation for European affairs, even amidst a shifting U.S. foreign policy focus, is a significant asset.
European Concerns Amidst U.S. Election Dynamics
The stakes for Europe in the U.S. election are high, particularly with ongoing conflicts such as the war in Ukraine. A potential Trump/JD Vance victory could lead to a more isolationist U.S. foreign policy, a scenario that EU officials consider a “disaster.” Countries closer to Russia, like Poland, are already preparing for potential changes in the transatlantic relationship, regardless of the election outcome.
Gordon’s presence in a top national security role under Harris could help mitigate these concerns. His past statements, including affirming the enduring U.S. support for Ukraine, bolster hopes that Europe will continue to be a priority in Harris’s international agenda.
Gordon’s European Connections and Expertise
Gordon’s ties to Europe extend beyond policy to personal interests. His enthusiasm for European football and his academic and professional experiences in Europe have solidified his understanding and appreciation of European perspectives. His career includes significant work on European and Middle Eastern issues, reflecting his broad expertise.
Justin Vaïsse, a French diplomat and founder of the Paris Peace Forum, recalls Gordon’s commitment to understanding European issues and his genuine interest in French perspectives. Gordon’s translation of former French President Nicolas Sarkozy’s book and his work with European institutions underscore his longstanding engagement with European affairs.
Shifting Focus and Challenges
While Gordon remains a prominent figure in European diplomacy circles, the increasing focus on China in U.S. foreign policy presents a challenge. Gordon has acknowledged the importance of addressing Chinese global ambitions while still recognizing the significance of European security.
Norbert Röttgen, a German Bundestag member, emphasizes Gordon’s belief that European security is crucial to U.S. global power. Gordon’s critique of German Chancellor Olaf Scholz for not sending missiles to Ukraine highlights his ongoing involvement in European security issues.
Despite his strong European credentials, Gordon is part of a diminishing group of Europe-focused experts in Washington. The rise of China as a central issue in U.S. foreign policy has shifted attention away from Europe, posing a challenge for those advocating for continued U.S. engagement with European allies.
Conclusion
As the U.S. election nears, the role of Phil Gordon in a potential Kamala Harris administration could significantly influence the future of U.S.-European relations. Gordon’s deep understanding of European issues and his commitment to transatlantic partnerships offer hope that Europe will continue to have a strong ally in Washington. If Gordon becomes the national security adviser, many believe Europe will retain a crucial friend in the U.S. administration.
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