Movers and shakers from the Miami business and nonprofit communities turned out Wednesday night to discuss just how important a smart power approach to foreign policy is for their city’s economy and security.  The event was part of our Smart Vote 2010 initiative to educate congressional candidates about the importance of the International Affairs Budget.

As Florida has a high-profile, three-way senate race, the participants discussed the importance of reaching out to the candidates, and even responded with direct email messages to the three respective campaigns.

University of Miami President Donna Shalala talked from her personal experience as the U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services from 1993-2001 about how important funding from the International Affairs Budget is, particularly in the area of global health and educating Americans on the global economy. Shalala and Governor Jeb Bush are co-chairs of the USGLC Florida State Advisory Committee.

With businesses from Microsoft to FedEx, humanitarian organizations such as CARE, local government participation, and the military perspective from a retired 4-star general, the event is a demonstration of the broad support that exists for the International Affairs Budget.

To find out how you can get involved, visit our Smart Vote 2010 toolkit and learn about ways you can educate congressional candidates near you on the importance of a smart power approach.