The foreign policy conversation we deserve
Join me for the next chapter of Cosmopolitics
Dear Cosmopolitics community:
It’s no secret that our country is changing before our eyes. The divide runs deep - polls show 80% of Americans believe we're split on fundamental values. This isn't just about our politics at home - it's changing how America shows up in the world. We've gone from a nation that projected clarity to one that projects uncertainty. Our allies see our wild swings between completely different approaches to global engagement, while those who wish us harm exploit these divisions.
We have nearly doubled our audience over the past several months, but we have also lost some readers lately. Some left because I brought Republican guests with an alternative point of view. Others disappeared when I wasn't critical enough of the policies they oppose. It stings, honestly.
After covering now eight administrations, I still believe in calling it as I see it – offering critiques of policy when it’s needed and giving credit where it is due. I won't twist my analysis to make one side comfortable. We need more voices willing to wrestle with messy realities instead of settling for simple narratives that feel good but explain little. And we need to be better at disagreeing agreeably.
I want to sincerely thank you for being part of this journey. Your engagement and support have been truly humbling. What began as an experiment in independent journalism has evolved into a vibrant community of thoughtful readers seeking nuanced perspectives on foreign policy and international affairs. In a media landscape often dominated by sensationalism, your interest in substantive analysis has validated my belief that there's an audience hungry for depth and context.
Why Go Premium?
Starting next week, I'm introducing an updated premium subscription that offers deeper engagement with our content. For $7 monthly or $70 annually, premium members will enjoy:
Full access to our complete archive, including audio and video content
Exclusive commenting privileges on posts, live discussions, and our popular Hot Takes Happy Hour threads
Premium content including "Ask Me Anything" sessions and the Weekend Edit—my take on the week's biggest stories
I'm committed to keeping most content free for everyone, but I am equally excited about these premium features that will allow our most engaged readers to participate more deeply in our growing community.
Supporting Independent Analysis
As an independent journalist, this platform has given me the freedom to explore topics I believe are important, free from editorial constraints. Your subscription directly supports this work, so I can increase both the frequency and depth of our coverage in the coming months.
As a special incentive, I am offering a 20 percent discount to anyone who upgrades their subscription in the next 48 hours
If you are already a paid subscriber, a gift subscription is a great way to invite a like-minded friend to join our community.
A $200 founding member option is also available for hard core Cosmopolitans who feel especially supportive.
And if financial circumstances prevent you from becoming a paid subscriber, please reach out—I never want cost to be a barrier to being part of our conversation.
What's Coming
In the weeks ahead, expect more frequent posts, including brief updates, in-depth analyses, and video content. Later this year, we'll launch a podcast, bi-monthly discussion events, and a foreign affairs book club.
In the meantime, I hope you will reach out with comments, suggestions or ideas for topics or guests. Your feedback is important to me.
Thank you for being an essential part of Cosmopolitics. Together, we're creating something special—a space for thoughtful engagement with the complex forces shaping our world.
With gratitude, Elise
P.S. Even if upgrading isn't possible right now, you can still support our work by giving us a recommendation on Substack and sharing Cosmopolitics with friends and colleagues who share our interest in understanding the world beyond the headlines.