Who We Are
We sit at the
VITAL CENTER
Current geopolitics are dominated by two competing factions: societies with economies that prioritize free enterprise and the rule of law, and an autocratic bloc that does not. A fierce battle is underway for which prevails. And at stake is America’s strength, security, and its economy,
Vital Center Network is committed to seizing the generational opportunity to reclaim the shared prosperity, civic trust, and sense of community that have defined our union since its inception.
We believe this is essential to building a stronger, safer nation with its uniquely American promise and potential intact.
We BELIEVE…
Economic security starts at home and…
in communities, across America and around the world. This security of necessity is about affording the essentials: food, shelter, healthcare.
Providing it must involve collaborative leaders…
from businesses and unions, civil society, jurists, diplomats, the military, law enforcement and those elected to serve.
United behind a collective responsibility
we must ensure that rules are applied fairly and enforced consistently; that we work in concert rather than in opposition; and that everyone has a fair opportunity to compete and prosper.
WHAT WE DO
BUILDING COALITIONS.
Advancing solutions.
Vital Center Network was formed to create and sustain a community of cross-partisan, collaborative and pragmatic voices. Together, we advance American economic and national security interests at home and around the world. We support a commitment to the rule of law, cooperative international alliances, and a strong military.
CONVENE PRACTICAL THINKERS
We act quickly to build new coalitions and reinforce existing ones based on sound policy ideas from a range of stakeholders.
OFFER NEEDED CLARITY
We provide clear communications that unite the likeminded with a common language, clear communications and tools to get things done.
IDENTIFY PATHS FORWARD
Our network facilitates meaningful change by combining expertise, leveraging knowledge, experience and extensive contacts to pave workable paths forward.
PRIORITIZE SHARED GOALS
Vital Center Network puts a focus on achievable outcomes that improve lives, bringing together leaders committed to strengthening America and its role in the world.
BLOG
Dispatches from the Center
Hear from Vital Center Network voices who are sharing perspectives on critical issues of the day.
Miller Center, UVA, Ripples of Hope Project
Miller Center panel discussions featuring nationally renowned speakers, politicians, journalists, and government officials.
America Could Lose the Critical Minerals Race
As America’s high-stakes trade games with China continue—with access to rare earths and critical minerals as a central flashpoint—and as the U.S. government is now open again, at least through the end of January, Congress faces another pivotal decision on equipping America with tools to compete.
It’s Time For a True Industrial Strategy For American National Security
Earlier this year, the bipartisan congressionally-appointed commission on which we serve sounded the alarm that America is at risk of losing its military and technological edge to China.
Mara Rudman leads Vital Center Network, a cross-partisan non-profit that grows America’s shared prosperity, security, and civic at home and around the world. Mara comes to this mission experienced in how and where sensible voices and community advance American economic and national security interests. She is joined in the work by partners from across the country and the political spectrum.