The Deep State in the USA: Its Successes and Failures
(An essay on short comings of U.S. Foreign Policy)
Google defines the “Deep State” as a clandestine network comprising members of the federal government—particularly within agencies like the FBI and CIA—working in conjunction with influential financial and industrial leaders. This network operates to exercise power either alongside or within the framework of the elected U.S. government. Essentially, it refers to unelected insiders with vested interests who influence government policy.
Deep State actors are embedded within the U.S. government, often difficult to identify due to their long-standing presence and their ability to appear aligned with government objectives. A notable example is the network of actors rooted in the U.S. State Department during the era of John Foster Dulles in the 1950s. These individuals aimed to oppose any American peace initiatives with the Soviet Union and to counter allies perceived as sympathetic to the Soviets. Although Dulles passed away in 1959, his influence shaped the trajectory of U.S. foreign policy. These so-called “Dullesians” remained influential and became architects of contemporary U.S. policies on a global scale.
The Deep State has had its share of both successes and failures. One key success came during the Cuban Missile Crisis in 1962, when newly elected President John F. Kennedy confronted the Soviet Union. Although he successfully defused the crisis without triggering World War III, the outcome was more about strategic caution than outright victory.
On the other hand, there have been less stellar moments. For example, President Richard Nixon’s decision to send Henry Kissinger to open relations with China, following decades of enmity stemming from the Korean War (in which 28,000 Americans died) and the ongoing Vietnam War (claiming 54,000 American lives), is difficult to categorize as a success. While the diplomatic breakthrough was historic, China’s current confrontation with the U.S. raises questions about the long-term wisdom of that policy. Nixon was advised by an unelected theory professor Kissinger whose main aim was to hurt Soviet Union using China to back stab Russia.
Another significant failure can be seen during President Joe Biden’s administration. In the 2020s, influenced by Deep State operatives, Biden was advised to withdraw from Afghanistan and escalate involvement in Ukraine, ostensibly to demolish Russia. However, this strategy backfired. The hasty Afghan withdrawal and the prolonged war in Ukraine, which resulted in the deaths of approximately 200,000 Ukrainians, cost Biden his political standing and drew widespread criticism. While Russia remains a formidable power, the consequences of these policies continue to unfold.
The Deep State’s role in shaping U.S. policies is undeniable, but its legacy is one of mixed outcomes—successes tempered by costly missteps and unforeseen consequences.
In conclusion, the Deep State nearly jeopardized the otherwise strong relationship between the U.S. and India over India’s decision to purchase discounted oil from Russia. They attempted to exert pressure by fabricating one or two court cases. However, recognizing the significance of the situation, India chose not to engage in confrontation.
This serves as a reminder to remain vigilant about the Deep State—a group of politically driven bureaucrats and even politicians advancing their own agendas, often at the expense of broader national and international interests.