The United States is undergoing a political tug-of-war between globalism and nationalism with world language education caught in the middle of this sociopolitical debate. The current political trend towards nationalism and isolationism is rendering world language education vulnerable to further cuts. This article discusses why it is vital for the American people in general, and language educators and program administrators in particular, to be aware of the devastating effects that these political and social trends are having on second and world language (L2) programs in academic institutions nationwide. In this bilateral age of both globalism and nationalism, America must continue to embrace the global and cultural competency of its citizens, not only as promise for better jobs and a higher pay, but to ensure that the United States remains a global leader, engaged and leading the world to a better future for all. More than ever, future leaders must "be equipped with the critical thinking, communications, socio-emotional and language skills to work collaboratively with their counterparts in the United States and all over the world" (International Affairs Office n.d.). If history is any indication, the current wave of nationalistic and anti-globalism sentiments will eventually pass, but the internationalization of the American economy will likely continue to expand, and so will the demand for a US workforce with non-English language skills and global competence.