Ep 122: Mike Gallagher and Matt Pottinger on a Victory Strategy for China
May 7, 2024
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Mike Gallagher and Matt Pottinger discuss the need for a victory strategy in America's cold war with China. They explore why detente isn't working, the importance of real statesmanship, and propose a strategy of rearm, reduce, and recruit. The podcast highlights the urgency of reevaluating tactics in dealing with China and acknowledges recent legislative success in China competition.
Implementing a victory strategy against China is crucial for America's national security posture.
Rejecting Détente, a more assertive approach towards China is necessary, leveraging America's economic strength.
Deep dives
Former Marine Leaders Emphasize the Need for a Victory Strategy Against the CCP
Congressman Mike Gallagher, together with Matt Pottinger, emphasize the urgency of implementing a victory strategy against the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) instead of settling for perpetual coexistence. Gallagher's role in chairing the China Select Committee resulted in legislation requiring TikTok's sale by its CCP-owned owners. The experts stress the necessity of a tougher stance towards the CCP, drawing from their military backgrounds and previous interactions.
Rejecting the Détente Approach Towards China
Gallagher and Pottinger critique the Détente approach, advocating a more assertive strategy in dealing with China. They reject the idea of Détente based on past failures and emphasize the need for a realistic and strength-based policy. The conversation delves into the historical context of Détente during the Cold War era and compares it to the current US-China relations, highlighting the importance of leveraging America's economic strength.
A Bipartisan Debate on National Security Policy
The discussion on a victory-oriented competition with China transcends party lines, with both Democrats and Republicans expressing support and criticism for Gallagher and Pottinger's stance. The conversation underscores the bipartisan nature of the national security debate, emphasizing the complexity and importance of shaping American foreign policy. The experts acknowledge the need for difficult decisions in prioritizing military spending amid rising debt costs.
Acknowledging Contributions to American Security
Matt Pottinger praises Congressman Mike Gallagher's significant contributions to American security, particularly highlighting Gallagher's leadership in the TikTok ban and sale legislation. The podcast concludes with mutual appreciation for each other's roles in advancing national security interests and shedding light on critical dimensions of the US-China competition. The episode underscores the importance of bipartisan collaboration in shaping effective national security policies.
Mike Gallagher and Matt Pottinger join the show to discuss their recent Foreign Affairs essay on the need for a victory strategy in America’s cold war with China.