We cross-posted Tom’s last post on the Huffington Post yesterday. Below, he replies to some of the comments he received.

I appreciate the concerns raised about the budget impacts of conquering extreme poverty and global disease. But this relatively small investment can bring amazing returns. Take a look at malaria. Malaria is entirely preventable. A report out of Kenya just yesterday showed that, over the past five years, child deaths from malaria were cut by more than 40 percent. The Kenyans didn’t do anything drastic. They simply were able to buy mosquito netting to stop kids from being bitten. Those nets cost about $5 each. The price of a combo meal at McDonald’s is a pretty small price to save a life.

We have a tradition as Americans of leading the way to solve global problems. This next election is an opportunity to make sure that our next president is committed to this effort. Not only is this the right thing to do, it will make for a more stable world. Do that, and we have a more secure America at home.