Breitbart News hosted a policy discussion titled “Harnessing American Power” featuring Interior Secretary Doug Burgum and Sen. Dave McCormick, where McCormick argued that the United States faces a strategic competition with China that demands coordinated action across government, energy, artificial intelligence, capital markets, and labor. The conversation framed this competition as a test of American resolve and policy clarity, emphasizing practical steps to keep the country secure and prosperous.
At the heart of the discussion was the argument that America must stop treating these challenges as isolated problems. A cohesive approach, McCormick said, will align federal policy with state and private sector initiatives so that energy, technology, finance, and workforce development reinforce each other instead of working at cross purposes. That coordination is not bureaucratic busywork, it is national security strategy and economic common sense. Republicans see this as a moment to back policies that restore American advantage.
Energy policy came up as a clear example where action produces results fast. The U.S. can expand domestic production and modernize infrastructure while reducing dependence on adversaries, and that mix boosts jobs and geopolitical leverage. Conservative priorities like permitting reform, responsible development of resources, and market-driven innovation were presented as the recipe to deliver both energy security and lower prices. This is about power in the literal sense and the diplomatic power that flows from it.
Artificial intelligence was framed as the next frontline where America must lead, not follow. The private sector is developing breakthroughs at a rapid pace, and government should enable that progress with clear guardrails that protect citizens without stifling innovation. Policymakers must also invest in research and defend intellectual property so U.S. firms and universities keep their edge. From a Republican angle, AI leadership means trusting enterprise and sharpening national defenses at the same time.
Capital markets are another critical piece of the puzzle and regulators should focus on transparency and resilience. McCormick stressed that investors and firms must be able to deploy capital toward American innovation while the government prevents hostile actors from weaponizing investment channels. That balance protects savers and encourages long-term growth, and it keeps critical infrastructure and technology in friendly hands. Markets function best when rules are predictable and enforcement is firm.
Labor and skills development received plainspoken attention too, because ideas need hands to build them. Expanding apprenticeships, aligning vocational training with emerging industries, and incentivizing private sector hiring are practical priorities that address both unemployment and competitiveness. The aim is not to create a government jobs program but to remove barriers so employers can train and retain talent. A workforce that can operate cutting-edge energy systems and AI platforms is a strategic asset.
Across all these topics, the theme was unity of effort and clarity of purpose. Federal agencies can be streamlined and coordinated to act more like a single instrument of national power when needed, and that does not mean central planning of the economy. It means targeted policies that enable private initiative while defending national interests. Republicans emphasized that it is time to get out of the way of American ingenuity and strengthen the guardrails that keep it safe.
The discussion underscored a simple Republican case: to win the long contest with China, the United States must harness its strengths—energy abundance, technological leadership, robust financial systems, and a skilled workforce—and put them to work together. Practical policy choices, not vague slogans, will determine whether America maintains the strategic and economic edge it needs. The work ahead is about clear priorities, disciplined execution, and trust in American enterprise to deliver results.
Darnell Thompkins is a conservative opinion writer from Atlanta, GA, known for his insightful commentary on politics, culture, and community issues. With a passion for championing traditional values and personal responsibility, Darnell brings a thoughtful Southern perspective to the national conversation. His writing aims to inspire meaningful dialogue and advocate for policies that strengthen families and empower individuals.