In our great state of Kentucky, one thing is certain: Leading globally matters locally to our communities and our families. Beyond keeping us safe from terrorism and international political instability, our global engagement helps create new markets for our proudest goods – from bourbon to beans to broncos. With over 95% percent of the world’s consumers living outside America’s borders, Kentucky jobs and businesses frankly rely on our leadership on the world stage.

As proud Kentuckians and leaders of Kentucky’s Chamber of Commerce and SOS International, we recognize that our global engagement is not just the right thing to do, it’s the smart thing to do. Economic growth and stability in our state depend on our trade, exports, and investment opportunities abroad. Kentucky exported $40.2 billion in goods to foreign markets last year, a 17% increase from 2022, supporting half-a-million jobs across the Commonwealth. At the Chamber, we’ve always supported a dynamic business climate that advances — not stifles — Kentucky’s economic interests. Ensuring we set our sights on outward growth, rather than inward contraction, is the best way to ensure long-term prosperity for our families.

And while we clearly benefit from our engagement in the world, the world also benefits too. At SOS International, we see how Kentucky’s exports are saving lives every day. Over 80% of the world’s population has inadequate or non-existent access to medical care. To address this public health and accessibility crisis, SOS International exports needed medical supplies to over 100 countries around the world. Since our inception, we have helped save 14 million lives by exporting over 5 million pounds of surplus medical equipment and supplies that would have otherwise ended up in landfills. Supported by individual, corporate, and community partners in Kentucky, SOS International demonstrates that our engagement in the world not only advances basic human rights like access to safe medical care among the most vulnerable populations, but it also sets the stage for a mutually beneficial relationship for our state.

U.S. global leadership helps American companies compete on a level playing field, tear down unfair regulations, protect our values, and attract investment into the United States. And with revisionist powers from Russia to China just waiting for the opportunity to fill any gaps should we falter; it is clear why a world order absent U.S. leadership would directly threaten the lives and livelihoods of Kentuckians. So, in addition to our bourbon, livestock, transportation equipment, and medical supplies, let’s continue to export the very best of the Bluegrass state’s values around the globe for our own continued prosperity and security.

Ashli Watts is the President and CEO for the Kentucky Chamber and Denise Sears is the President and CEO of SOS International.