WASHINGTON, D.C. (May 19, 2026) – The McCain Institute’s 13th annual Sedona Forum, focused on the theme “The Challenges to American Dominance,” emphasized the changing global dynamics that are threatening the United States’ position in the world, and presented opportunities to sharpen America’s competitive edge. Here are a few takeaways from the 2026 Sedona Forum.
1. Representatives Jason Crow (D-Colo.) and Craig Goldman (R-T.X.) came together to discuss the importance of policymakers finding common ground and putting service over self. Rep. Crow cited that his constituents have an “unbelievable appetite for people who are willing to put the country first, who are willing to serve above partisan politics, and who are willing to find a way to work together.”
2. Lt. General Kyrylo Budanov, Head of the Office of the President of Ukraine, virtually addressed an American audience for the first time to champion the alliance between the U.S. and Ukraine — “the alliance of fighting nations” — and urged the U.S. to tighten sanctions on Russia. Washington Post Intelligence Lead Security Analyst Josh Rogin captured the moment:
3. Rep. Mike Lawler (R-N.Y.), Sen. Peter Welch (D-Vt.), and China Strategies Group President & CEO Chris Johnson discussed the U.S.-China relationship with Financial Times U.S. China Correspondent Demetri Sevastopulo. Rep. Lawler highlights the critical importance of engaging China thoughtfully when it comes to the future of Taiwan.
4. Japan Senator Rui Matsukawa, Japan Member of the House of Representatives (LDP) Akihisa Shiozaki, and Blue Sky CEO and McCain Institute Board Member Jack McCain emphasized the importance of a strong and enduring U.S.-Japan alliance, moderated by Washington Post Intelligence Lead Security Analyst Josh Rogin. “Senator McCain understood that the U.S.-Japan alliance was not a transactional contract, but a generational commitment,” said Shiozaki.
5. NOTUS reporter Joe Gould led a conversation on the 21st century technological revolution, featuring Fuse Energy Founder & CEO JC Btaiche, HPSCI Ranking Member Rep. Jim Himes (D-Conn.), and Vantor CEO Dan Smoot. The panel highlighted why the U.S. cannot afford to lose its technical edge, especially when it comes to artificial intelligence. “We have to make sure that the U.S. continues to maintain leadership in critical technologies like fusion and AI—energy security is the baseload of national security,” said Btaiche.
