At the Wednesday graduation ceremonies of the U.S. Air Force Academy, President Barack Obama hit back at Republican critics that said U.S. influence in the world is declining. He told Air Force graduates that a new confidence in the U.S leadership is being seen around the globe.

Critics say otherwise, suggesting that the President is leading from behind in international efforts, responded weakly to contending powers and cut the military. However, he made a forceful argument for his policy that downplays American unilateral action and promotes partnerships with allies. A policy designed to maintain military superiority, while welcoming the rise of responsible, peaceful emerging powers.

The speech fell into the pattern of optimism that Obama is trying to identify himself with. Trying to show how the White House administration is looking to the future and maintaining faith, while the Republicans are embracing decline. Obama told graduates that if we were able to meet our responsibilities then the 21st century would be like the previous century, a great one for America. Thus far in the election campaign, defense spending and foreign policy has taken second stage to a campaign that is primarily focused on the economy.

Mitt Romney, the presumptive Republican presidential candidate has remained fixed on the issues regarding the economy. He spoke on Wednesday about education reform. A Romney adviser told reporters on Thursday that Romney is planning to maintain his focus on the huge deficits and the consequences the country faces by not being able to adequately fund defense. As far as foreign policy is concerned, Romney has accused Obama of being too cooperative and accommodating with other countries and not being a forceful enough advocate of interests in the U.S.