Over the next few days, President Bush will conduct a five-country tour of Latin America to “underscore the commitment of the United States to the Western Hemisphere,” according to the White House.Bravo to Bush for backpacking through Brazil, but it comes about five years too late; anti-U.S. sentiment has already gained a foothold down south.

While the current administration has ignored its Southern neighbors for almost seven years, much of Latin America has moved on to find other, local friends, such as socialist leaders Hugo Chavez of Venezuela and Evo Morales of Bolivia.

In the United States’ absence, Chavez, Morales and others have gained and secured power, instituted their socialist revolutions and assembled a solid fan-base to boot.

That’s not to say the president’s trip is in vain, it’s only to say that a whirlwind vacation won’t mend the collective broken heart of Latin America.

But all hope is not lost; the current and next administration can repair the damage done by taking an active interest in Middle and South American politics. Dropping by to say “hello” and donating a few dollars won’t win the hearts of the many in need.

Because the United States relies heavily on immigrants from South America to help fill our workforce, it would be in our best interest to ensure we don’t lose them.

If the United States expects to remain the ally and not the enemy, it should spend more time ensuring democracy thrives everywhere, and not just in the Middle East.

Additionally, U.S. politicians should realize ignorance of peoples closest to home can do more harm than ignorance of those abroad.

It’s time all politicians, not just those currently in power, pay attention to the global community instead of those countries that make the day-to-day headlines.

Managing editor John-Laurent Tronche for the editorial board.