We are pleased to announce the launch of the new Renewing America blog. Please bookmark this page for updated news and analysis on the domestic challenges facing the United States that have significant consequences for national security and foreign policy.

Renewing America is a special project launched in connection with CFR's 90th anniversary. The Renewing America initiative is supported in part by a generous grant from the Bernard and Irene Schwartz Foundation.

The Domestic Underpinnings of U.S. Global Power

Premised on the understanding that the United States' ability to influence world events rests on a robust, competitive economy, CFR's Renewing America initiative sponsors meetings, research, analysis, recommendations, and outreach on how best to revitalize the country's economic strength and build the foundations for future prosperity and influence. The initiative focuses on six issues that affect the United States' ability to project its power abroad:

Debt and deficits. America's national debt is rising rapidly and the solution will require tackling some of the thorniest issues in U.S. politics—taxes and entitlement spending.

Infrastructure. Upgrading the nation's aging network of roads, bridges, airports, railways, and water systems as well as infrastructure related to energy security is essential to maintaining U.S. competitiveness.

Education and human capital. A troubled education system and a flawed immigration process threaten U.S. capacity to develop a competitive workforce.

Corporate regulation and taxation. Regulatory burdens, offshore employment, and tax-shelter abuses have fed debate over the scope of rules for U.S.-based businesses.

Innovation. The rise of China, India, Brazil, and other emerging markets means the United States must innovate to remain competitive.

International trade and investment. Americans debate whether trade deals send U.S. jobs overseas or spur economic growth and job creation at home.

Research and Publications

As a part of the Renewing America initiative, CFR's David Rockefeller Studies Program will generate innovative policy recommendations on revitalizing the U.S. economy and replenishing the sources of American power abroad. Drawing on the expertise of CFR scholars, along with leading experts and practitioners from around the world, Renewing America publications include:

Policy Innovation Memoranda. Written for policymakers and opinion leaders, these focused and rigorous policy briefs examine challenges to the domestic underpinnings of U.S. national security.

Research papers. In-depth analyses that examine the challenges to U.S. global competitiveness and recommend actionable policy
solutions.

Renewing America Scorecards. Analysis and infographics assessing policy developments and U.S. performance in such areas as infrastructure, education, international trade, and government deficits.

Future of American Manufacturing. Nobel laureate and CFR Distinguished Visiting Fellow Michael A. Spence examines the trends in U.S. manufacturing output and employment and their consequences for the health of American society.

Events

The initiative makes possible a robust Renewing America Roundtable series. The roundtable series draws on the substantial talents of the fellows in the David Rockefeller Studies Program. Meetings in this series examine how policies at home directly influence the economic and military strength of the United States and its ability to act in the world. Meetings are held by invitation both at CFR's New York headquarters and Washington office.

The Renewing America Blog

The Renewing America blog is the initiative's portal for updated news and analysis on the domestic challenges that have significant consequences for U.S. national security and foreign policy.

Some of the blog's features include:

Renewing America Scorecards. Analysis and infographics assessing policy developments and U.S. performance in such areas as infrastructure, education, international trade, and government deficits

Backgrounders. Succinct explainers on issues related to the Renewing America themes from CFR.org's editorial staff

Expert commentary. Analysis by Alden, other CFR scholars, and guest bloggers

In-depth research. Policy papers written by CFR scholars as well as
some of the nation's top scholars and practitioners