Sinica Podcast Does Beijing Really Want Trump?
Aug 28, 2024
Dive into the complex relationship between Beijing and U.S. politics, especially regarding Trump. Discover how Chinese elites view American presidential candidates and the impact of social media on their opinions. Explore the diverse reasons why some in China admire Trump, from his isolationism to its benefits for Chinese interests. Finally, hear insights on how the electoral outcomes of Trump and Biden could reshape U.S.-China relations, as analysts reveal their hopes for stability amid shifting foreign policy.
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Types of Trump Supporters in China
- Three types of Chinese Trump supporters exist: those admiring his policies, those believing his isolationism benefits China, and those believing his presidency weakens the U.S..
- Support often comes from imagining an American perspective.
Think Tank Perspective
- Chinese think tankers, unlike popular opinion, see potential downsides to a Trump presidency, like increased economic confrontation.
- Some believe Biden's policies, while seemingly engaging, could be more damaging long-term.
American Assumptions
- Many American analysts assume China prefers Trump due to his disruptive potential.
- However, this assumption might be a projection of American anxieties rather than a reflection of Beijing's actual desires.