The common phrase “out of sight, out of mind” can easily take a very deadly twist when it comes to Americans imprisoned abroad. Whether the imprisonment comes at the hands of a hostile government or a rogue terrorist group, the president of the United States plays an important role in ensuring that these American citizens come home safely. However, presidents in recent years have dropped the ball on this pivotal duty. That’s why candidate Donald Trump promised to take his duty seriously. He tweeted on October 23, 2016, “Well, Iran has done it again. Taken two of our people and asking for a fortune for their release. This doesn’t happen if I’m president!”
President Trump did not forget this important promise. As our nation’s chief dealmaker, he has boldly worked on behalf of imprisoned Americans and their families to secure their prompt release. Under President Trump’s direction, the missionary Joshua Holt was released from Venezuela. American pastor Andrew Brunson was released from Turkey after President Trump called out Turkey’s president on Twitter. Michael White was released from Iran. Sam Goodwin was released from Syria. Three more were released from North Korea. The list goes on and on.
Putting America first means so much more than pulling out of bad trade deals. America First also means not letting hostile regimes take out their hatred of freedom on innocent American citizens. Sadly, even though the safe return of these captives means everything to the captives’ families and friends, the media often forgets about them. Consequently, most politicians let them fall by the wayside. Finding an elected official who cares about more than just winning the next election is hard to come by. To fight on behalf of the forgotten American captives abroad, a leader must really care about them, not just their votes.
America needs a president with the boldness to take on the largest hostile government and the compassion to care for the plight of even one American held overseas. President Donald Trump has proven himself to be such a president. Career politicians just do not have what it takes to fight for America’s forgotten citizens abroad.
