The State Department is a nonpartisan agency, and America has a long tradition of non-partisanship in foreign policy.
President Obama will leave a legacy that I think deserves to be continued, whether it be leadership on climate change, sensible growth-oriented economic policies, coalitions of countries which are tackling the most pressing global issues of the day, and a renewed and strengthened partnership with Italy on matters that affect our mutual security. I hope our next President will continue to lead on these issues.
For all the differences between the political parties and the candidates, history has shown that when a new President actually takes office that person has to be practical in facing the challenges that confront our nation and our allies. New Presidents historically live up to our commitments and provide continuing momentum on priority efforts – even those initiated by a previous administration.
In the end, U.S. foreign policy is built on protecting American values and advancing American interests. That is good news for our allies – because our alliances are built on shared values and interests. That is certainly the case with Italy, and with Tuscany. I don’t believe you will see sweeping changes in our policies or our alliances. There may be changes in style, but we will stay true to our values, and true to our friends.
Abigail M. Rupp
Consul General of the United States of America in Italy
