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Indispensable Power

The McCain Institute convened its 10th annual Sedona Forum on May 5-6, 2023, featuring lawmakers, journalists, military leaders, business executives, and more. The 2023 Sedona Forum theme, “Indispensable Power,” examined the diplomatic, military, and economic means employed to protect democracy, human rights, and the global competitive edge. CBS News served as a broadcast media partner, and POLITICO served as a digital media partner.

Established by Senator John McCain, the Sedona Forum is held each spring in the red rock country of Sedona, Arizona, to advance the mission of the McCain Institute – fighting for democracy, human dignity, and security.

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3:10 pm - 3:45 pm
AZ

Elevating Political Discourse, Finding Lasting Solutions & Renewing American Confidence in Democracy

4:00 pm - 4:40 pm
AZ

Maintaining America’s Edge – A View From Arizona

4:40 pm - 5:00 pm
AZ

Courage and Leadership Award

5:00 pm - 5:15 pm

Rethinking Humanitarian Response for Today’s World

6:30 pm - 8:30 pm
AZ

The Sedona Leadership Dinner

Kissinger Fellowship Introduction: Minister Kono Taro
Keynote Conversation: Adm. John C. Aquilino

*The Sedona Leadership Dinner will not be livestreamed.

8:30 am - 8:35 am
AZ

Opening Remarks

8:35 am - 8:40 am
AZ

Welcome Remarks

8:45 am - 9:25 am
AZ

Technology, Innovation & Our National Interests

9:25 am - 10:15 am
AZ

Intelligence Partnerships in Today’s Strategic Competitive Landscape

11:20 am - 12:10 pm
AZ

Exploring the Nexus Between Geopolitics, Climate, and Trade

12:25 pm - 12:45 pm
AZ

“A Cause Greater Than” Luncheon/Presentation of the "In The Arena" Award

Introduction by Jack McCain, Board Member, McCain Institute
Welcome by Cindy McCain, Executive Director, World Food Programme
The "In The Arena" Award: Arizona Cardinals player Kelvin Beachum, presented by Rep. Juan Ciscomani VIEW REPLAY

12:45 pm - 1:25 pm
AZ

A New Age of Technology, Warfare, and Deterrence: The Role of Artificial Intelligence on the Battlefield

1:40 pm - 2:20 pm
AZ

Global Threats and Opportunities: U.S. Leadership in the 21st Century

2:20 pm - 3:10 pm
AZ

China as a Global Security Challenge – Perspective from the Western Hemisphere

Thoughtful Leaders. Decision Makers. Activists and Experts.

The Sedona Forum is the McCain Institute’s annual, high-level gathering of national and international leaders held each spring at the Enchantment Resort in the red rock country of Sedona, Arizona. Starting from the assumption of character-driven leadership and core democratic values, The Sedona Forum convenes thought-leaders, decision makers, activists and diverse experts to discuss approaches and solutions to real-world problems.
Thoughtful Leaders