The Bulwark Podcast Jake Sullivan: Trump Is Making China Great Again
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Aug 27, 2025 
Jake Sullivan, former National Security Advisor to President Biden, reacts to how Trump's return has benefited China, contrasting last year's isolation to today's situation. He discusses the dangers of allowing China access to U.S. microchips and the weakening of alliances amid a chaotic political landscape. Sullivan also addresses the evolving U.S.-Israel relationship, the urgent crisis in Gaza, strategies for pressuring Putin, and the complexities of Biden's potential re-election. His insights blend urgency with a critical look at current foreign policy challenges.
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Purges Undermine U.S. National Security
- Purging career national security professionals weakens U.S. intelligence and cyber capabilities at a critical time.
- Sullivan warns this loyalty-driven purge mirrors authoritarian playbooks and will reduce threat assessment capacity.
Trump’s Moves Have Strengthened China
- Trump’s actions have materially improved China’s strategic position globally over the last year.
- Beijing now feels empowered because the U.S. has undercut alliances, trade posture, and tech restrictions.
Chip Controls Were Reversed
- The Biden team blocked advanced AI-capable chips to Chinese entities tied to the PLA to protect national security.
- Sullivan says Trump reversed that by allowing shipments after private meetings with industry leaders.