Spreading democracy is a worthy goal but the United States faces complex challenges in an interdependent world, challenges that are compellingpolicymakers, Democrats and Republicans, to act as pragmatist idealists. Instead of crouching toward China or Russia as a model, developing nations should look to the United States. This is the biggest challenge for US international diplomacy today. Rebuilding Ukraine after theRussian guns are silenced and enabling it to become a member of the European Union would create hope for democracy. But it is the vast and economically vibrant Indo-Pacific region that is the best hope for democracy, and whereIndia is a shining star.