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Since Richard Nixon laid out his proposed policy toward China as part of his 1967-1968 campaign and eventually went there in 1972, how to best deal with China has been an important topic for candidates. The pattern has been that challengers criticize predecessors’ approaches and propose “getting tougher on China” or “getting the right balance on China.” With the Nevada Caucuses this weekend, here's what the six leading Democratic candidates have said about China.
The Common Ground
All have criticized China’s human rights record and all call for cooperation with China to battle climate change. Most call for working with allies to press for changes in Chinese economic policies and practices.
Bernie Sanders (24% National Polling Average)
Bernie Sanders (24% National Polling Average)
- Against unfair trade agreements
- Recognize China’s authoritarian turn, but acknowledge its achievements in poverty alleviation
Joseph R. Biden Jr. (23% National Polling Average)
- Critical of China’s practices in Xinjiang, supports putting more military resources in the region, and working with allies
- Mobilize allies in trade talks with China
- Threaten China to keep the Belt and Road Initiative green
Elizabeth Warren (14% National Polling Average)
- Rebuild the State Department
- Fight global corruption
- Pursue a new approach to trade
- Work with others on climate change and battling disease
Michael R. Bloomberg (10% National Polling Average)
- The U.S. must strengthen innovation, education and remain open
- Work with China to battle climate change
- Xi Jinping has to answer to a constituency
Pete Buttigieg (9% National Polling Average)
- Critical on human rights practices and supportive of sanctions and warnings
- Speak out on human rights abuses in China
- Build on our values to ensure security
- Take a clear stance on Hong Kong, change our approach to trade
- Foster collaboration on climate change, but also match China’s infrastructure plans
Amy Klobuchar (5% National Polling Average)
- Push legislation to review Chinese purchases of U.S. companies
- Be clear and consistent in trade talks with China
- Don’t oppose China’s rise, but don’t allow it come at the expense of the U.S. or others
More about China in American politics:
- A history of Democratic and Republican party platforms
- Highlights from US presidential debates since 1960
- Political ads from 2012 that mentioned China
- "Follow the Money" tells the behind-the-scenes story of the Bloomberg News article critical of Chinese party leaders
