As we gear up for the pivotal 2024 election season, the rhetoric surrounding China is heating up, and the narratives being spun by candidates are creating a fascinating landscape of political strategy and cultural stance. At the recent Republican National Convention, Donald Trump made waves by mentioning China a staggering 14 times in his 92-minute address—a tactic he has wielded since his first campaign. The former president’s attacking rhetoric around COVID-19, frequently coining it as the “China virus,” has seemingly been recycled for the current political environment, reinforcing ongoing sentiments of animosity towards Beijing. His claims range from accusations of job theft in the auto industry to declaring that his administration was “winning” on numerous fronts against the communist giant.
Democrats, on the other hand, are responding in kind. At the Democratic National Convention, President Biden asserted that the conventional wisdom of China’s inevitability to surpass the U.S. is no longer widely accepted. Similarly, Kamala Harris vowed to ensure that the competition of the 21st century is one that America, not China, will dominate, highlighting a shift in focus for the Democratic campaign. The framing from this side of the aisle is significant—it represents a progressive ambition to move forward, emphasizing unity, innovation, and the promise of cooperation.
What’s particularly striking is the contrasting approach the two parties are taking regarding foreign relations. The Republicans lean heavily into a narrative of an impending threat, invoking fears of Communism and economic rivalry, while Democrats are discussing cooperation and technological advancement, particularly in spaces such as AI and space exploration.
Tim Walz, Harris’ running mate and governor of Minnesota, finds himself at the heart of this debate. While his extensive background—including multiple trips to China and a role in U.S.-China cultural exchange through educational initiatives—has drawn criticism from conservative pundits, he remains critical of the Chinese government’s human rights record. This nuanced perspective stands in stark contrast to the sensationalist narratives often propagated by Republican leaders.
The depiction of China is complex and often laden with stereotypes, a divisive tactic that can incite fears—both of the government and the people. With discussions surrounding Islamic culture and the broader representation of nations around the globe becoming inherently political, understanding China’s intricate cultural landscape is crucial. Instead of viewing it solely as a monolithic adversary, embracing the diverse cultures within its borders reflects a more progressive and inclusive perspective.
As we anticipate the months leading up to the election, one thing is clear: the association between political maneuvering and global narratives will only grow stronger. The next administration will face the monumental task of navigating not just U.S. interests but also diplomatic relations with a world that is increasingly interconnected.
The call for solidarity, particularly in contexts like the Palestinian and Algerian struggles for justice, intertwines with broader discussions of global cooperation. As progressive values push for understanding and unity, it is essential to remember that dialogues around international relations go beyond mere policy—they encompass the very essence of who we are and who we wish to become as a global society.
