The politicization of the military is one of the most controversial in the national security community right now. Because of that, I’ve encountered a number of military leaders of all backgrounds and services who are reluctant to share their views on national security and geopolitical issues, for many different reasons. My guest on this episode is definitely not in that camp. Admiral James Stavridis (USN ret.) is former NATO Supreme Allied Commander. He’s an Operating Executive of The Carlyle Group, and Chair of the Board of Counselors of McLarty Associates. He’s a columnist for TIME Magazine and Chief International Security Analyst for NBC News. His new book is "2034: A Novel of the Next World War" along with Elliot Ackerman. Adm. Stavridis discusses why officers should, and indeed have a responsibility to, engage in the marketplace of ideas; and why his book's timeline for war with China might be too long.
Photo: Adm. James Stavridis, supreme allied commander Europe, speaks during the activation ceremony of the NATO Allied Land Command in Izmir, Turkey, Nov. 30th. As the new commander, U.S. Army Lt. Gen. Frederick “Ben” Hodges accepted the command colors from Stavridis as part of the ceremony.