Edward Alden is a senior fellow at the CFR and a distinguished professor, while Ana Swanson is a trade journalist at the New York Times. They dive into the evolving landscape of U.S. trade policy, highlighting challenges stemming from competition with China. The duo dissects past deindustrialization narratives and the impacts of tariffs, especially during Trump’s presidency. They explore how shifting protectionist sentiments are reshaping society and influencing the upcoming election's trade discussions.

Ana Swanson, a New York Times reporter, investigates the intriguing world of microchip trafficking. She reveals how Nvidia chips are making their way to China despite U.S. bans, shedding light on the underground markets in Shenzhen. The discussion dives into the resilience of Chinese firms like Huawei in advancing AI technology in the face of sanctions. Swanson's insights highlight the complexities and contradictions surrounding U.S. export restrictions and the ongoing supply chain challenges.