About Shadow Government
Shadow Government is a blog about U.S. foreign policy in the age of Trump, written by experienced policymakers, scholars, and practitioners from the loyal Democrat opposition. It is co-edited by Derek Chollet, Colin Kahl, and Julie Smith.
An Appeal to the National Security Community to Fight Racial Injustice
Two former U.S. officials argue there is no security abroad without justice at home.
China Will Be Front and Center During the 2020 Election
Whether it’s about trade or the coronavirus, it’s possible to be tough on China without being racist or reckless.
Trump Is Dangerously Predictable With China
Whether he is cozying up to China or scapegoating it, Trump has consistently placed his personal political interests over those of the United States.
Biden Must Speak Out Against Israeli Annexation Plans Before It’s Too Late
With Trump’s blessing, Israel is getting ready to annex large parts of the occupied West Bank as soon as July. Biden shouldn’t go along.
Let the Referendum on Trump and Trumpism Begin
The November election isn’t just the most important political event of 2020 in the United States. It’s the most important political event in the world.
The Shocking ‘Coronavirus Coup’ in Hungary Was a Wake-Up Call
While the world is shut down, history hasn’t stopped. Authoritarians are seizing the opportunity.
Mourning the Olympics and All the Celebrations We’re Losing to the Pandemic
Especially in times like these, it's OK to feel for everyone whose milestone events have been canceled or postponed.
The Virus Has Exposed the Recklessness of Trump’s “America First”
The world needs to cooperate to beat the coronavirus pandemic. That includes you, President Trump.
We Know Peace Plans—This Isn’t One of Them
Here’s why Trump’s latest gambit probably won’t settle the Israeli-Palestinian dispute.
Putin Is Following the Game Plan of Other Autocrats Before Him
And moves like his Jan. 15 announcement generally work—both to secure a leader’s power and ensure a favorable transition down the road.
Galleries
The Week in World Photos
Global protests against government-imposed lockdowns, gang violence in El Salvador, and hat tips to medical staff.
The Week in World Photos
A prayerful start to Ramadan, medical workers on the front lines of a pandemic, and the annual Lyrids meteor shower.
In the Magazine
In the Magazine
How to Save Global Capitalism From Itself
Decentralizing decision-making can help left-behind regions get back on track.
Britain’s Post-Brexit Identity Crisis
Boris Johnson has contradictory ideas for his country’s future—and no clear paths for getting there.
The Ugly End of Chimerica
The coronavirus pandemic has turned a conscious uncoupling into a messy breakup.
The 3 Most Polarizing Words in India
“Jai Shri Ram” was meant to be a celebration of a Hindu deity. But the phrase is turning into hate speech—and a dog whistle for attacks on Muslims.