Philip Gordon: The Architect Behind U.S. Opposition to Brexit and Kamala Harris’s Key Foreign Policy Advisor
Philip Gordon, a seasoned diplomat and foreign policy strategist, has emerged as a pivotal figure in the ongoing discourse surrounding U.S.-UK relations, particularly in the context of Brexit. As Kamala Harris’s top foreign policy adviser, Gordon’s past actions during the Obama administration have sparked renewed interest and concern regarding the future of transatlantic ties, especially if Harris were to win the upcoming U.S. presidential election.
A Shrewd Pragmatist
At 62, Gordon is described by colleagues and friends as a "shrewd pragmatist." His extensive experience in foreign policy, particularly as the Assistant Secretary of State for European and Eurasian Affairs from 2009 to 2013, has positioned him as a key player in shaping U.S. foreign relations. With speculation mounting about his potential appointment as either the National Security Adviser or Secretary of State in a Harris administration, Gordon’s past actions and beliefs regarding Brexit have come under scrutiny.
Opposition to Brexit: A Diplomatic Mission
During his tenure at the State Department, Gordon was an outspoken opponent of Brexit, actively lobbying against the idea of a referendum on the UK’s membership in the European Union. His visits to London were marked by urgent warnings to British ministers about the potential risks associated with such a vote. Gordon articulated three primary concerns: the potential harm to transatlantic relations, the inherent risks of a referendum without a guaranteed Remain victory, and the possibility of empowering Eurosceptic movements across Europe.
In private meetings, Gordon’s arguments resonated with key figures, including Sir David Lidington, then Britain’s minister for Europe. Despite his efforts, Prime Minister David Cameron ultimately announced the Brexit referendum in January 2013, setting the stage for a national debate that would culminate in the 2016 vote.
Continued Advocacy Against Brexit
After leaving the Obama administration in 2015, Gordon did not retreat from the Brexit debate. In a Financial Times article published just days before the referendum, he warned that Brexit could unleash "forces of disintegration" within Europe and potentially reignite discussions around Scottish independence. Following the unexpected Leave victory, Gordon continued to voice his concerns, criticizing the "misleading promises" of the Leave campaign and advocating for a second referendum.
His commentary on CNN further suggested that as Brexit negotiations unfolded, the British public might come to recognize the drawbacks of leaving the EU and seek to "rebuild something" akin to EU membership. This perspective underscores Gordon’s belief in the importance of maintaining strong ties between the U.S. and Europe.
Concerns Among Brexit Supporters
The prospect of Gordon taking on a senior role in a potential Harris administration has raised alarms among Brexit supporters. Mark Francois, chairman of the European Research Group of Conservative MPs, expressed concerns about American interference in British affairs, recalling past instances where the Obama administration’s involvement was met with skepticism. He emphasized the need for any future U.S. administration to learn from previous experiences and respect British sovereignty.
This sentiment reflects a broader unease regarding American influence in the Brexit debate, highlighting the sensitivities surrounding U.S.-UK relations. The ongoing discussions about the future of these ties are particularly relevant as both nations navigate the complexities of a post-Brexit world.
The Future of U.S.-UK Relations
As the political landscape evolves, the role of figures like Philip Gordon will be crucial in shaping the future of U.S.-UK relations. Should Kamala Harris secure the presidency, Gordon’s past experiences and views on Brexit could significantly influence the Biden administration’s approach to the UK and Europe.
In conclusion, Philip Gordon’s involvement in the Brexit debate and his potential future roles in a Harris administration underscore the intricate dynamics of U.S.-UK relations. As both countries continue to grapple with the implications of Brexit, the perspectives of key advisors like Gordon will play a vital role in determining the trajectory of transatlantic ties in the years to come.