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Chinese Whispers: what would a second Trump presidency bring for China?
Aug 19, 2024
Cindy Yu, assistant editor of The Spectator's China podcast, joins Freddy Gray, the deputy editor, and Jordan McGillis, an expert on U.S.-China relations. They dive into the complexities of Trump's foreign policy, pondering his motivations behind a tough stance on China and whether he truly cares about human rights. The trio discusses the significance of Trump’s advisors in shaping future policy and considers the politics surrounding Taiwan and trade dynamics, including the implications of his surprising TikTok decision.
30:23
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Quick takeaways
- Trump's potential second presidency could lead to an unpredictable US-China policy shaped by his advisors' diverse motivations and strategies.
- The Republican Party's factions reveal contrasting views on China, balancing economic interests with human rights and isolationist tendencies in foreign policy.
Deep dives
Impact of Trump's Potential Second Term on US-China Relations
If Donald Trump returns to the White House, it could significantly affect US-China relations. During his first term, Trump's approach often involved a balance between listening to hawkish advisors and expressing favorable views towards China, particularly towards Xi Jinping. Trump’s unique style of governance, characterized by his instinctive grasp of the political right's sentiments on foreign policy, could lead to a more unpredictable stance on China in a second term. His strategies may include encouraging US allies like Taiwan to bolster their own defense capabilities while maintaining a transactional approach to trade negotiations.
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