Angry Planet After Xi
Sep 5, 2025
Tyler Jost, an assistant professor at Brown University specializing in China’s political landscape, shares intriguing insights about the future of leadership in China. He discusses the complexities of succession in an authoritarian regime, influenced by Xi Jinping’s concentrated power. Jost delves into how personal connections impact the political hierarchy, the pervasive nature of corruption, and the atmosphere of fear within the Communist Party. His analysis offers a fascinating look at the potential paths for China's governance as it considers life after Xi.
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Succession Already Shapes Chinese Politics
- Succession talk is starting inside and outside the CCP and will shape politics well before Xi leaves office.
- Anticipating succession changes how officials behave and will shift how observers read Chinese politics.
How Chinese Authoritarian Rule Works
- China is authoritarian because leaders are selected internally by the CCP rather than by popular elections.
- Party-chosen leaders wield expansive power with few effective constraints on major decisions.
Build The Right Track To Rise
- Join the CCP early and pursue local posts to climb the leadership ladder in China.
- Build technocratic skills and social networks, especially in major cities and with military contacts.
