Jacobin Radio Behind the News: Is Trump De-Escalating With China? w/ Jake Werner
Oct 15, 2025
Jake Werner, Director of the East Asia program at the Quincy Institute, discusses Trump's unexpected softening stance on China and challenges the prevailing hawkish U.S. foreign policy. He highlights internal divisions within Trump's coalition regarding China and examines China's aspirations on the global stage. Jeet Heer, National correspondent for The Nation, takes a deep dive into William F. Buckley’s legacy, exploring his controversial ties to the American right and the implications of his fusionist politics. Together, they shed light on complex issues reshaping U.S. politics and foreign policy.
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Trump's China Shift Is Transactional
- Trump shifts on China to suit predatory capitalist allies and personal spectacle.
- He values winning deals and appearances over sustaining US systemic dominance.
Establishment Sees Systemic Rivalry
- The foreign policy establishment fear China as a systemic rival after post-2008 crises.
- Trump lacks that systemic view and focuses on short-term bargains and showmanship.
Trump Coalition Is Factional On China
- The Trump coalition contains nationalist civilizationalists and profit-driven tech oligarchs.
- These factions collide over tactics toward China, producing internal tension.
