As the results of the U.S. presidential election sink in, some members of the American Council on Germany community will be pleased. Others will be disappointed with the outcome. In a fair and democratic election, the American voters have had their voices heard, and Donald Trump will be the 47th President of the United States. Regardless of how one might feel, we still have a job to do.
The American Council on Germany strives to strengthen the German-American alliance as an indispensable cornerstone of democracy and cooperation in service to an open, sustainable, and peaceful world. Our mission, core values, and work have not changed and remain just as true today as they were before the election – and other elections in the past.
The bilateral relationship has many facets and is maintained at many levels – in local communities, between states, and at the federal level. Connecting national decision-makers for dialogue on foreign policy challenges, defense and security, and economic cooperation will remain critical to the ACG’s nonpartisan work to foster mutual understanding. But, there is more to the partnership than the ties between Washington and Berlin.
It is often said that vigorous and effective local democracy is the underlying basis for a healthy and strong national-level democracy. As we have done for many years, our work at the subnational level between cities and states on both sides of the Atlantic will grow in importance. Our programming has supported, and will continue to promote, the exchange of best practices, pragmatic problem-solving, engagement, and innovative collaboration on issues that impact people’s daily lives in communities in both countries.
The close cooperation, shared values, and common interests of Germany and the United States – through many U.S. and German government administrations – have allowed this alliance to make great strides in combatting the effects of climate change, and to benefit our respective economies through trade, direct foreign investment, and job creation. Germany has been, and remains, one of our closest allies and most steadfast security partners. The American Council on Germany looks forward to continuing to strengthen this relationship based on common interests for years to come.