Anders Fogh Rasmussen, the former secretary general of NATO, is advocating for Democrats to collaborate with Republicans on a border enforcement deal to secure additional aid for Ukraine and other U.S. allies. In an interview, Rasmussen emphasized that such a deal could benefit Democrats in the upcoming 2024 election.
Rasmussen’s Advice to Democrats
Rasmussen suggested that Democrats should accommodate Republican views on border security and create a comprehensive package that includes support for Ukraine, Israel, and Taiwan. He asserted that resolving the border issue would be in President Biden’s interest before the election campaign intensifies.
“If I were in the leadership of the Democratic campaign, I would not hesitate to close this issue — to accommodate Republicans to make it a non-issue in the coming election campaign,” Rasmussen said.
Border Issue Stalling Foreign Aid
Democrats have been facing resistance from Republicans in unlocking foreign aid for Ukraine, Israel, and Taiwan. Republicans are steadfast in their demand for legislation that strengthens the southern border, creating a legislative deadlock.
Political Interests and Potential Vulnerabilities
Rasmussen argued that addressing the border issue could serve Democrats’ political interests by defusing a potential vulnerability ahead of the 2024 election. Drawing on European politics, he warned that failure to control immigration could lead to significant political consequences, emphasizing the need for effective border policies.
Rasmussen’s Advocacy for Ukraine Aid
During his visit to Washington, Rasmussen aimed to persuade hard-right members of the House Freedom Caucus to support additional aid for Ukraine. He expressed concerns that failing to continue assistance to Ukraine could have severe consequences, comparing it to the “withdrawal from Afghanistan on steroids.”
A Conservative Approach
Rasmussen, a former prime minister of Denmark, emphasized his conservative political roots and commitment to free markets. He plans to leverage his conservative background to engage with members of the Freedom Caucus and make the case for supporting Ukraine.
“I’m not a liberal in the American sense of the word. I think I’m one of the most pro-American European politicians,” Rasmussen stated.
Uncomfortable with Trumpism
While supportive of conservative principles, Rasmussen expressed discomfort with the Republican Party’s shift toward Trumpism and the rise of isolationist ideas. He highlighted the resilience of Nikki Haley, a former ambassador to the United Nations, in the Republican race, noting her alignment with his thinking about world affairs.
In conclusion, Rasmussen underscored the importance of addressing the border issue for Democrats’ political strategy while advocating for continued support for Ukraine.
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