Second to None? Evaluating a Second Island Chain Strategy
Chris, Melanie, and Zack debate the merits of Jennifer Kavanagh's proposed Second Island Chain strategy for Asia. They discuss U.S. objectives in the region and whether commitments to allies and partners are important to those aims. Chris also highlights the Trump administration's illegal questioning of civilian employees' past votes, Melanie warns about continued defense budget uncertainty, and Zack laments the administration's wayward embrace of Russia.
Show Links:
Jennifer Kavanagh, "A Second Island Chain Strategy for Asia," Defense Priorities, September 10, 2026.
Stephen Wertheim, X post…
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