Washington D.C. – Ben Rhodes, a former deputy national security advisor to President Barack Obama, has publicly stated that America’s lengthy military engagements lack moral justification. This admission follows his time spent with Graham Platner, a US Army and Marine veteran currently running for Senate in Maine.

A Shift in Perspective

Rhodes’s change in viewpoint stems from observing Platner’s consistent critique of the ‘forever war.’ Platner, who is currently leading in his primary race, emphasizes the damaging effects of endless conflict both internationally and within the United States.

Echoing a Veteran’s Concerns

Rhodes, who previously defended these wars, now recognizes the validity of Platner’s perspective. He argues that Democratic leaders and voters should pay attention to his message. He describes the ‘forever war’ as a destructive force that is eroding American society and fostering fear and division.

Disconnect Between Reality and Narrative

Rhodes’s shift is rooted in a perceived disconnect between the realities of war experienced by soldiers like Platner and the narratives presented by political elites and media commentators. Platner’s belief that ordinary citizens understand the costs of endless wars resonated deeply with Rhodes.

Questioning Priorities

Platner frequently questions why resources are allocated to military spending instead of essential services like schools and hospitals. Rhodes recalls his past role defending the Afghanistan war, admitting he once believed the US was acting in the best interests of the Afghan people.

Challenging American Exceptionalism

Rhodes highlights the dangers of American exceptionalism and the normalization of violence within political leadership. Platner argues that a true leader prioritizes the cost of violence, challenging the idea that a willingness to use force is essential for power.

Domestic Consequences and a Call for Reckoning

The article emphasizes the domestic consequences of these prolonged conflicts, portraying them as a sign of a declining empire prioritizing elite interests. Rhodes stresses the need for a public reckoning with these failures to enable genuine change.

Advocating for Change

Rhodes champions voices like Platner’s, advocating for a ‘visceral and moral reckoning’ to dismantle the ‘forever war,’ re-evaluate national priorities, and heal the nation. He calls for a shift in American identity, urging a focus on internal connection and mutual support.

Ultimately, Rhodes concludes that saving the nation requires breaking the cycle of violence and finding meaning in collective well-being, rather than in the capacity to inflict harm.