PLATFORM : Why the Clinton Economic Plan is Vital to Our World Interests

Over the Last few days, I have been calling members of Congress to win support for an initiative of great importance to the future of America’s world leadership--the President’s economic plan.

My job as secretary is to advance America’s interests abroad. And for America to be strong and to be a leader abroad, we have to be strong at home--and that means reviving our economy and creating good jobs for our people.

Adoption of President Clinton’s economic plan will revive American strength. As Congress confers on specific numbers and particular provisions, one thing should remain clear: For the first time in more than a decade, an American President is facing up to our long-neglected economic challenges and making a frontal assault on the federal deficit.

Wherever I’ve traveled recently, I’ve heard the same thing: America is coming back as a responsible manager of its own economy and as a credible leader on global economic issues. Our challenge now is to sustain that momentum.

As the world’s sole superpower, the United States remains the linchpin of global security. With such continuing dangers as the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction and the unpredictable behavior of rogue states, America retains unique leadership responsibilities. New global issues--from population pressures to environmental degradation to refugee flows--must command our attention and a share of international resources. Given such challenges, we cannot afford to be hobbled by economic weakness or legislative gridlock. The world cannot afford it either.

By putting our own house in order, we will regain the economic solvency and the public support necessary to meet our global responsibilities.