I have written several articles on postings related to politics. A list of links have been provided at bottom of this article for your convenience. This article will, however address different aspects on these political events.
Despite holding little US land, China remains focus of foreign ownership discussion
Lawmakers worried that China could gain control over the U.S. food system through land purchases are looking to curb the nation’s grip on American farmland, despite no evidence of a recent spike in land sales to Chinese interests, according to an Agri-Pulse analysis of Agriculture Department data.
The most recent data collected under the Agricultural Foreign Investment Disclosure Act (AFIDA) shows Chinese investors held a little more than half of 1% of the overall 35.8 million acres of U.S. farmland and forest land under foreign ownership in 2019. Foreign-owned land accounts for about 2.7% of all U.S. farmland and forest land, which, according to the Department of Agriculture, is about 897 million acres.
That data also shows that the approximately 190,000 acres of farmland owned by Chinese interests has remained virtually unchanged since 2013. However, the USDA’s data on foreign farmland ownership is two years old, so Chinese investors could own more or less land than the numbers reflect. Additionally, complex company ownership structures and problems with USDA enforcement of the reporting act, as reported by the Midwest Center for Investigative Reporting in 2017, may mean those numbers are not accurate or up to date.
Still, a provision that would bar businesses owned by the Chinese government from buying U.S. farmland and participating in USDA programs cleared the House in August as part of the fiscal 2022 funding bill for USDA. There is no similar provision in the Senate version of the appropriations bill, which was approved by the Senate Appropriations Committee in August.
The House amendment would extend the same ban onto the state-owned businesses of three other U.S. adversaries. But its lead author, Rep. Dan Newhouse, R-Wash., designed it with China in mind. He told Agri-Pulse he intended it to serve as a preventative measure, a way for Congress to keep the Chinese government from acquiring U.S. land in the future.
“We know that there is a stated goal of the Chinese communist government to accomplish the control of not just agricultural assets, but many different kinds of assets around the globe,” Newhouse said. “This was a preemptive effort on our part to prevent important, critical parts of our supply chain from being under the control of the Chinese.”
While Chinese officials have encouraged agricultural companies to invest abroad to expand the nation’s global influence and achieve national food security, a 2018 USDA Economic Research Service report said these investments are becoming less focused on land and more on acquiring existing companies. Most of the agricultural land that Chinese investors do acquire is located in other parts of the world, including Southeast Asia, Russia and Africa.
“Most Chinese agricultural investment has bypassed the United States,” the report’s authors wrote. “North America has received the smallest share among all continents of China’s outbound agricultural investment, despite being top supplier [sic] of China’s agricultural imports and a top destination for China’s nonagricultural investments.”
Plus, investors from China — who held 191,652 total acres of land in 2019 — appear to possess far fewer acres of U.S. farmland than people from other countries. Investors from Canada and the Netherlands held 7.4 million acres and 4.5 million acres, respectively, and investors from Italy, Portugal, Germany, the United Kingdom, France, and eight other countries followed, each group possessing more land than their Chinese counterparts.
When Newhouse introduced his amendment during a House Appropriations Committee markup on June 30, legislators from both parties expressed concerns about the potential ramifications of allowing Chinese ownership of U.S. land.
The chairman of the House Ag Appropriations Subcommittee, Sanford Bishop, Jr., D-Ga., said he supported the “concept” of the amendment, calling the current number of Chinese-held acres of U.S. land a “national security issue.” Rep. Jeff Fortenberry, R-Neb., the subcommittee’s top Republican, saw the measure as a matter of “fairness,” because China likely does not allow the U.S. to purchase farmland within its borders.
But Rep. Grace Meng, D-N.Y., called the amendment a “slippery slope” that had the potential to fuel hatred toward Asian Americans, though she ultimately voted to add it to the appropriations bill after Newhouse expressed a willingness to work with her to address her concerns.
“This is not about calling attention in any negative way to any group of people in our country — that’s not the goal,” Newhouse told lawmakers after a brief recess allowed him to speak with Meng. “This is about the government of communist China. This is about our country’s national security. If we can agree on those two things, then I think we can move forward.”
Since then, the amendment was expanded to include three other known U.S. rivals: Iran, Russia and North Korea. Meng said at the markup she wanted to see a broader focus on multiple U.S. adversaries. Iran possessed 2,463 acres of U.S. land in 2019, while Russia held 834 acres and North Korea owned none.
Rep. Newhouse did not agree to expanding the amendment, even though he doesn’t disagree that the additional countries are adversaries, noted a staff spokesperson. “His concern is that since at least 2012, the People’s Republic of China has made significant increases in U.S. farmland ownership,” the spokesperson said.
James Talent, a former U.S. senator from Missouri and a current member of the U.S.-China Economic and Security Review Commission, spoke with Agri-Pulse in his personal capacity and said Chinese ownership of farmland can be concerning, particularly because the Chinese government is “sophisticated in using economic leverage” to further its own goals. He also questioned the accuracy of foreign ownership data.
“Part of the difficulty here is that we’re not certain how reliable our own figures are, because there’s a requirement that foreign entities report when they buy agricultural land, but there’s really no means for enforcing that,” Talent said. “And it’s not like the Chinese are very honest about other economic statistics, that’s another well-known fact.”
But Talent said right now, the Asian nation appears to be more focused on feeding its own people than on disrupting the U.S. food supply.
“I think, in general, it’s fair to say that their buying to this point is designed to secure their own food supply chains, rather than to gain leverage over ours,” he said. “That could change.”
The amount of farmland owned by Chinese investors has remained relatively steady in recent years, according to the AFIDA data. The last significant increase in acres occurred between 2012 and 2013 after the privately owned Chinese company Shanghui, now known as the WH Group, purchased U.S. pork giant Smithfield Foods.
According to AFIDA data obtained by Agri-Pulse through a Freedom of Information Act request, 76% of the land fully owned by Chinese entities in 2019 — or 146,537 acres — belonged to Smithfield Foods.
The company controls more than 49,000 acres of land in North Carolina, more than 42,000 in Missouri, just above 33,500 acres in Utah, over 13,000 in Virginia, more than 3,800 acres in Colorado and about 2,500 acres in Oklahoma. It also owns some land in Texas, South Carolina and Illinois, but far fewer acres than in other states.
After its 2013 purchase of Smithfield, Shanghui took control of several properties in Iowa, including processing plants, at least one livestock buying station, a feed mill, an office facility in Ames, a parcel of land near Manning where construction of a feed mill was planned, and leases of approximately 50 barn structures from local farmers near Algona, according to a series of letters exchanged between Smithfield representatives and the Iowa Attorney General’s office.
But because of the state’s laws restricting foreign-owned or leased farmland, the company told the attorney general’s office it would turn over 40% of the leased barns to the U.S.-based Christensen Farms and convert the rest into traditional contract finishing and custom feeding arrangements by the end of 2015. According to the letters, Smithfield’s other properties were not on agricultural land.
Other states with Smithfield operations, like Oklahoma and Missouri, have some restrictions on foreign farmland ownership, but none that prevent the company from operating in them.
Oklahoma’s statute allows foreign corporations to own agricultural land for swine, poultry or livestock feeding operations. Missouri previously had a ban on foreign ownership, but state legislators changed it in 2013 — 15 days before the Smithfield acquisition — to allow foreign investors to own up to 1% of the state’s agricultural land.
Smithfield Foods did lobby on Newhouse’s amendment as it worked its way into the final appropriations bill, records show.
A source close to the matter told Agri-Pulse that Smithfield representatives urged Newhouse’s office to clarify in the amendment that the restrictions should apply only to companies owned by the government of China. Newhouse’s original language had also singled out “nationals of the People’s Republic of China,” but that section was crossed out before the vote on the amendment.
On its website, Smithfield asserts that the Hong Kong-based WH Group is a publicly traded company and not a state-owned enterprise, which presents the possibility that the company will not be affected by the legislation. Smithfield representatives declined to comment on this story.
The impact the amendment has on Chinese companies will likely depend on how the USDA chooses to define ownership. Both Newhouse and Talent said the Chinese government has ways of influencing how companies within its borders operate, even if they are private.
“I guess you could theoretically have a company that did not have government ties who it wouldn’t affect, but I don’t think that in reality that exists in China,” Newhouse told Agri-Pulse. “There’s always a relationship with the Communist government. I can’t speak to Russia and Iran and North Korea, since that wasn’t part of my original language.”
In an email to Agri-Pulse, USDA press secretary Kate Waters said the agency has not yet decided what criteria it would use to determine whether or not a company was owned by one of the four countries included in the amendment.
Some experts, including Francine Miller, a senior staff attorney and adjunct professor at the Vermont Law School Center for Agricultural Food Systems, question whether the USDA would have the legal authority to prohibit the governments of the countries listed in the bill from buying land.
“It’s really a state law issue,” Miller said. “There isn’t, as far as I’ve been able to tell, any federal jurisdiction for the federal government to stop — especially a particular country — from buying farmland in America.”
But Waters, the USDA spokeswoman, said Congress would give USDA the legal authority to prohibit sales of farmland to the foreign countries included in the act if the bill were to pass. However, she said some of the infrastructure necessary for enforcing the act does not currently exist and would need to be created by the USDA.
China’s Latest Land Purchase Could Pose Major U.S. Security Risk
House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, along with other Congress members, set off on a high-profile Asia tour this week. While Pelosi’s office didn’t disclose Taiwan in the tour, her plane landed there on Tuesday.
Ahead of the meeting, China made their sentiments on the matter known through various statements and, most recently, the Chinese People’s Liberation Army conducting live-fire drills on Pingtan, an island in the Taiwan Strait, according to Jim Wiesemeyer, ProFarmer policy analyst.
Regarding the visit, China’s foreign minister spokesperson Zhao Lijian says, “The Chinese People’s Liberation Army will not sit back.” Following Lijian’s statement, China sent warplanes to the Taiwan Strait on Tuesday.
Upon Pelosi’s plane leaving Taiwan on Wednesday, China claimed it will continue it’s live-fire drills surrounding Taiwan beginning Thursday.
Meanwhile, Senator Jerry Moran (R-KS) told AgriTalk Host Chip Flory that Pelosi’s visit isn’t about seeing whether China will “stay in their box.”
“This is not about whether the Speaker can go to Taiwan,” he says. “Let’s reengage in the Pacific with the Trans-Pacific Partnership, let’s trade with our friends in the pacific, let’s get our economy in shape so that we’re a stronger country. That’s how we compete with China.”
While China raises concerns over American boots on the ground in Asia, the country continues to grow its own footprint in the U.S.
American Lands No More
USDA’s latest data shows China owns over 191,000 acres of U.S. lands, but that was before a North Dakota land sale this Spring.
A Chinese company, Fufeng Group, recently acquired 300 acres in North Dakota for $2.6 million. According to the company, it intends to establish a milling plant.
Burgum penned a letter to U.S. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen and U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin on Monday, requesting the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States (CFIUS) quickly review the Fufeng Group’s purchase.
“We ask that this review process be completed with the utmost urgency to aid Grand Forks officials in their decision-making process and provide clarity on whether this land purchase has national security implications,” Burgum wrote.
Eric Chutorash, Fufeng Group USA COO, claims the company has no Chinese government ownership and all workers in the plant will be Americans. He says he “cannot imagine” anyone in the facility would partake in espionage.
“I know we’re not going to be asked to be collecting any intelligence on Grand Forks Air Force Base,” Chutorash told the Grand Forks Herald during a forum in March . “I can’t stress it any more than that. (But) me personally, I wouldn’t provide it. I don’t believe the team being built there would provide it. … Our HR director, commercial director and sales team and engineer, they’re from here – they’re not people transferred from China.”
According to Burgum, the Fufeng Group has agreed to a voluntary CFIUS filing to further explain its intentions in North Dakota. However, Chutorash claims his team would be required to state a reason for the CFIUS review when they offer consent, and they have been given no reason to request a review.
Big Trouble in Little Texas
This isn’t the first time a question has been raised in China’s stake in the U.S.
The plug was pulled on a similar wind energy project in Del Rio, Texas, in April when state officials realized two key issues:
1. The land dedicated to the wind farm is miles from the Laughlin Air Force Base.
2. The Chinese company hired to carry out the job is owned by a former member of the Chinese military who has direct ties to China’s ruling communist party.
Rep. Tony Gonzales (R-TX), who unsuccessfully pushed for the Trump Administration to reconsider allowing GH America Energy—a Chinese energy company—to purchase 130,000 acres in Val Verde County, Texas, in early 2021, has sought out secondary avenues.
In April 2021, Gonzales cosponsored the Protecting Military Installations and Ranges Act of 2021, which aims to place restrictions on certain property purchases entities in Russia, China, Iran or North Korea.
The bill was referred to the Committee on Banking, Housing and Urban Affairs.
More At Stake with China
Aside from land, the U.S. government has also raised concerns over Chinese equipment’s hold on rural America.
Chinese state-supported telecom companies, Huawei and ZTE, faced scrutiny in the past when they sold equipment to Midwest providers.
While various Chinese telecom companies, including Huawei and ZTE, have been banned in the U.S. due to spying concern, removing their equipment hasn’t proven easy.
Congress dedicated $1.9 billion in 2020 to remove and replace 24,000 pieces of the Huawei and ZTE equipment in America. According to Chuck DeVore, former California assemblyman and retired lieutenant colonel in the U.S. Army Reserve, none of the equipment has been removed as carriers say the complete replacement costs will add an additional $3 billion to the price tag.
“Chinese telecommunications equipment remains a ticking timebomb,” wrote DeVore. “The time for talk is over; we need action.”
5 Reasons NOT to Fear China (and 3 Reasons to Still Worry)
In the 1980s, many Americans feared that fast-growing Japan would supplant the U.S.
In the 1980s, many Americans feared that fast-growing Japan would supplant the U.S. as the world’s biggest, most dynamic economy. Those fears abruptly disappeared when the Japanese economy stumbled in the 1990s, only to be resurrected in the new century with a new rival: China.
With the world’s largest population and an economic boom unleashed by the end of Communist controls, China seemed destined to overtake America as the world’s richest and most powerful nation. But just as the threat posed by Japan 30 years ago turned out to be overblown, the threat China poses today may be less dire than it appears, despite ominous headlines these days about the trade war between Washington and Beijing.
Long a juggernaut, China is slowing now. The era of double-digit GDP growth is over. Last quarter’s 6% growth rate — which some analysts believe to be overstated by Beijing — was the lowest in three decades. Growth will downshift to 4% of less by 2030.
The country faces several major challenges. Consider:
Adverse Demographics
China’s population of working-age people is shrinking. Last year’s level of 897 million people in that age bracket was down from 925 million as recently as 2011. For decades, China’s growth rate was goosed by a favorable ratio of young, working people to older, retired people. Now, that’s reversing, cutting down on available labor.
China’s population may start falling in 2027 — an outright decline in all people, not just workers. Chalk it up to Beijing’s former one-child policy, which recently became a two-child policy.
2 of 8
Subsidies of State-Controlled Businesses
Increasingly, bank loans in China go to inefficient, state-sponsored companies, rather than the private sector. (Private firms got about 50% of bank credit in 2013. By 2016, the share was just 10%.)
Productivity suffers because Beijing subsidizes state-controlled businesses at the expense of private companies. The return on capital from state-run enterprises is roughly half that from private firms, a major factor in China’s slowing GDP growth.
Note that this represents a turnaround from the policy that fueled China during its rapid-growth phase earlier this century. Back then, Beijing cut investment in state-run businesses, freeing capital to go to the companies that could use it best. But when the Great Recession hit in 2008, the government staved off painful job losses by funding wasteful stimulus projects and directing credit to big, state-backed firms. That trend has intensified since President Xi Jinping began his rise to power in 2012.
3 of 8
A Crackdown on Shadow Banking
The crackdown on shadow banking is further constricting China’s economic growth. Faced with mounting risks in its financial system, Beijing has sought to curb the role of nonbank lenders in supplying credit. That means less capital available to the most productive firms in China’s private sector, which had been the largest recipients of loans from the shadow banking system. By contrast, China’s big, inefficient, state-subsidized industries tend to soak up the loans from traditional banks, because those borrowers have an implicit guarantee that Beijing will prop them up if their finances deteriorate.
4 of 8
America’s Continuing Dominance in Semiconductors
Can China chip away at America’s dominant position in semiconductors? It faces a tough challenge, as it still buys 90% of its chips, worth $200 billion, each year from foreign companies, including such U.S. firms as Intel and Qualcomm.
But that doesn’t mean Beijing won’t try, spending hundreds of billions in the process. The Chinese government recently unveiled a $28.9 billion fund to support semiconductor development, only the latest in a series of such efforts.
With traditional chips, China will continue playing catch-up with leaders of the semiconductor industry, such as Intel, Qualcomm and Micron Technology.
But Beijing still has an opportunity to capitalize on the industry’s future: Artificial intelligence chips, specialized semiconductors that are designed for complex machine learning. Also known as AI accelerators, they are more efficient and powerful than traditional CPUs, thanks to their ability to divide up processing and perform parallel computations. For example, a Google “deep learning” experiment that took 16,000 CPUs to recognize a cat needed just 48 graphics-processing AI chips.
Though AI chips account for only 1% of global semiconductor sales, that number is expected to grow quickly along with artificial intelligence, which is expected to deliver $13 trillion in additional economic output by 2030. For now, expect U.S. firms like Intel and Nvidia to dominate in AI chips. But China has its foot in the door. HiSilicon, Huawei’s semiconductor arm, has made considerable strides on AI chipsets for the company’s new 5G smartphones.
5 of 8
The FCC Isn’t Letting Up on Chinese Telecom Gear
The Federal Communications Commission will soon forbid U.S. wireless and wired firms to use any federal money to buy equipment from Huawei and ZTE. The agency says there is ample evidence to conclude that the two Chinese vendors pose a national security risk to Americans, and points to similar efforts by the Trump administration and support from Congress.
The FCC is targeting $8 billion in yearly spending used for telecom services in rural areas, low-income folks, schools, libraries and rural health care. The subsidies ultimately come from monthly consumer fees on wired and wireless phone bills. Once the FCC’s new rule takes effect, none of the money can go to Huawei and ZTE.
Coming efforts to rip out Chinese gear from rural networks will be costly, likely running into the hundreds of millions of dollars. The FCC will collect data on how widespread Chinese gear is inside certain networks and how much it will cost to replace all of it. Much of the low-cost equipment is found in small rural networks. Congress may eventually step in to help pay for the work. It’s possible that the FCC may find the funds, but it’s more likely extra funding will be needed. Expect state and local governments to follow suit in banning Chinese gear.
The two biggest beneficiaries of the coming FCC ban: Ericsson and Nokia, which sell telecom products necessary for wired and wireless networks, including 5G. They’ll be able to ramp up sales in the U.S. while keeping prices a bit higher.
6 of 8
Reason to Fear: China’s 5G Superiority
China’s 5G strategy increasingly worries U.S. officials, who see Chinese telecom gear as a national security threat that could allow Beijing to spy on communications or help developing nations censor parts of the web, as China does. There’s growing fear that China’s leading companies are poised to out-compete and out-innovate U.S. tech giants. That has riled U.S. lawmakers, who point to years of stolen intellectual property by China and unfair conditions imposed on U.S. firms doing business in the country.
China’s main weapon for global 5G superiority: Huawei, a state-backed telecom giant with a stockpile of valuable 5G patents. The company aims to spread its equipment in China and around the world. The U.S. can’t compete with Huawei’s telecom gear since no U.S. company makes comparable wireless radio systems. (Europe’s Ericsson and Nokia do manufacture radio gear.)
China sees 5G as a key technology for its larger ambitions to become a global technology leader. For China, 5G’s more-robust wireless broadband will support other emerging fields, ranging from advanced artificial intelligence to the Internet of Things, thus fueling its overall tech strategy and growing its economy.
7 of 8
Reason to Fear: China’s Increased R&D Spending
China is an emerging scientific power, closing the gap with the U.S. Since 2000, Beijing has upped spending on research and development by an average of 18% annually, including investments in such key emerging technologies as artificial intelligence, robotics and quantum computing.
China won’t surpass the U.S. in all those fields, maybe not in any of them, but its technological achievements will rival America’s. Expect Beijing to catch up with Washington in overall R&D spending sometime in the next decade–something that will also help China increasingly attract and retain top-tier scientific talent.
8 of 8
Reason to Fear: China’s Military Ambitions
China is already an economic juggernaut. Its leaders have an even bigger ambition: Make China the world’s dominant nation…economically AND militarily…within the next 30 years.
The U.S. military is still second to none. But Beijing is catching up fast. Its spending on defense is rising by 10% per year, on everything from jet fighters to new space-based weaponry.
The navy is a particular priority. In 2017, China opened its first naval base on Africa’s coast and is building more on the islands it has developed in the South China Sea, a vital waterway for a third of global shipping. The plan: Turn the Indian Ocean and the western Pacific into a Chinese lake of sorts. Ties to smaller regional powers are growing as China holds more military exercises with nations such as Thailand and sells arms around the world. (China trails only Russia and the U.S. on that front.)
Foreign entities buying U.S. farmland: threat or hyperbole?
During his visit to Ohio last week, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis praised Republican U.S. Senate nominee J.D. Vance’s forceful opposition of the “Chinese communist party.” He said Vance would be “tough” on them in the Senate.
DeSantis described how, in Florida, he’s signed legislation banning Confucius Institutes — programs funded by the Chinese government to promote the country’s language and culture abroad. But a different bit of resistance elicited applause.
“We’re very mindful of them trying to infiltrate our economy,” DeSantis said. “We’re going to be doing legislation to block them for purchasing land in our state, and we need other states to follow that as well.”
Concerns about national security and the country’s food system drive fears of foreign entities purchasing U.S. land. Not surprisingly, when it comes to farmland, the issue tends to animate rural, traditionally conservative voters. But lawmakers on both sides of the aisle have raised concerns about the practice.
What we know — and don’t
The USDA maintains data about foreign land ownership under The Agricultural Foreign Investment Disclosure Act of 1978. The picture those data paint seems to undermine fears about some kind of covert incursion.
In all, foreign owners control less than 3% of the country’s farmland. Canadians represent the biggest share controlling a bit less than a third of the total. Owners from the Netherlands, Italy, Germany and the United Kingdom hold another third. Chinese owners, meanwhile, hold just 0.5% of privately held U.S. farmland. Even expanding the scope to include non-agricultural land, Chinese owners still represent less than 1% of foreign held acres.
But Caitlin Welsh cautions the information is far from complete. Welsh serves as director of the Global Food Security Program at the Center for Strategic & International Studies.
“We don’t know the scale of foreign land ownership in the U.S.,” she said. “We rely on data that’s voluntarily provided by states to USDA.”
“There’s, in theory, some sanctions for not reporting that data in a timely manner,” she continued, “but those sanctions are rarely applied.”
And Welsh added that even if the percentages are small, they’re not insignificant. The foreign-held land we know about would still cover the state of Iowa.
The view from Ohio
In terms of acreage held by foreign entities, Ohio ranks near the middle both in raw numbers and percentage. German investors hold roughly 77,000 acres — the largest share of the half million acres of foreign owned land in the state.
“China’s really not even on the radar,” Ty Higgins of the Ohio Farm Bureau explained.
Despite the small footprint, Higgins said the issue is getting attention because of where investors are buying.
“With this conversation about China buying up farmland near military bases, it’s really bubbling this topic back up to the surface for our members and I think for everybody in rural parts of America as well.”
Most notably, the Chinese food company Fufeng Group recently purchased land in North Dakota not far from an Air Force base. A similar story is playing out in Texas where a Chinese billionaire named Sun Guangxin bought land with plans to build a windfarm not far from a different Air Force base. Higgins didn’t know of any similar examples in Ohio.
Foreign ownership on the campaign trail
While the issue fired up rally attendees, foreign land ownership has played little if any role in Ohio’s U.S. Senate race.
In January at a Delaware County shooting range, Vance voiced skepticism about foreign actors’ influence, but his focus was on the price of single-family homes. He described hearing from a friend in real estate about first time homebuyers struggling to compete.
“Some out of state investor, often taking Chinese money — Blackrock takes a lot of Chinese money, Blackstone takes a lot of Chinese money — comes in and outbids that family by 20-30%, and that’s the end of the homeownership dream for that young family,” Vance said.
“We’ve got to make a decision,” he continued. “Do we care more about Chinese money, or do we care more about the future for our own people?”
More recently, he voiced the same skepticism and referenced farmland directly in an interview with WLWT in Cincinnati.
“Why are we letting China go up and buy American farmland and American single-family homes, right? Voters care about that stuff because they care about the future of their country,” Vance said.
In a statement his campaign said he would support action to prohibit “domestic asset purchases by the Chinese Communist Party,” including real estate, farmland or components of the country’s infrastructure.
Democratic nominee Tim Ryan has made confronting China economically a central part of his pitch to voters, as well. But foreign land purchases really haven’t come up at campaign events. In a rare point of agreement, though, Ryan shares the same suspicions as Vance. In an emailed statement he said, “America’s farmland belongs in the hands of America’s farmers.”
“The Chinese Communist Party’s malicious practice of buying up our land poses a serious threat to our national security and our ability to feed our own people,” Ryan continued. “We must do everything in our power to block China’s efforts to control our food production and ensure we keep our agricultural supply chains at home.”
And the Democratic congressman pointed to his record. He’s voted in favor of successive agriculture spending bills that direct officials to “take such actions as may be necessary” to block land purchases by companies tied to the Chinese, Russian, North Korean or Iranian governments.
Low hanging fruit
For two candidates who have underlined their antipathy toward the Chinese government, Ryan and Vance’s convergence on the issue isn’t exactly a shocker.
But Welsh, the researcher from CSIS, lands on a more nuanced view. In terms of immediate steps, she argued officials need to ensure data sent to USDA is complete and accurate. “To me, that’s low hanging fruit,” she said, arguing both sides of the aisle should welcome a clearer picture. When it comes to concerns about China’s domestic influence, though, emphasizing agriculture might be misplaced.
“If you’re worried about the influence of China in the United States, there are a lot of other sectors to be looking at in addition to agriculture,” she argued.
“And if you’re worried about quote-unquote foreign control of U.S. agricultural land,” she added, “Number one, there are countries that own a lot more than China does, and then number two, you can look at U.S. based companies in other states that are purchasing access or purchasing rights to agricultural land in other states.”
She pointed to Arizona, where overseas and out-of-state firms have bought up land to take advantage of loose water regulations. That influx, regardless of where it comes from, puts added stress on the area’s agricultural system.
China is buying up American farms. Washington wants to crack down.
Bipartisan pressure is building to stop foreign nationals from purchasing American farm operations and receiving taxpayer subsidies.
The push to drain China’s influence from the U.S. economy has reached America’s farm country, as congressional lawmakers from both parties are looking at measures to crack down on foreign purchases of prime agricultural real estate.
House lawmakers recently advanced legislation to that effect, warning that China’s presence in the American food system poses a national security risk. And key Senate lawmakers have already shown interest in efforts to keep American farms in American hands.
The debate over farm ownership comes amid broader efforts by Congress and the Biden administration to curb the nation’s economic reliance on China, especially in key industries like food, semiconductors and minerals deemed crucial to the supply chain. The call for tighter limits on who owns America’s farms has come from a wide range of political leaders, from former Vice President Mike Pence to Sen. Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), after gaining momentum seeded in farm states.
“America cannot allow China to control our food supply,” Pence said Wednesday during a speech at the conservative Heritage Foundation, urging President Joe Biden and Congress to “end all farm subsidies for land owned by foreign nationals.”
Chinese firms have expanded their presence in American agriculture over the last decade by snapping up farmland and purchasing major agribusinesses, like pork processing giant Smithfield Foods. By the start of 2020, Chinese owners controlled about 192,000 agricultural acres in the U.S., worth $1.9 billion, including land used for farming, ranching and forestry, according to the Agriculture Department.
Still, that’s less than farmland owned by people from other nations like Canada and European countries, which account for millions of acres each. It’s also a small percentage of the nearly 900 million acres of total American farmland.
But it’s the trend of increasing purchases and the buyers’ potential connections to the Chinese government that have lawmakers spooked.
USDA reported in 2018 that China’s agricultural investments in other nations had grown more than tenfold since 2009. The Communist Party has actively supported investments in foreign agriculture as part of its “One Belt One Road” economic development plans, aiming to control a greater piece of China’s food supply chain.
“The current trend in the U.S. is leading us toward the creation of a Chinese-owned agricultural land monopoly,” Rep. Dan Newhouse (R-Wash.) warned during a recent House Appropriations hearing.
The committee unexpectedly adopted Newhouse’s amendment to the Agriculture-FDA spending bill (H.R. 4356 (117)) that would block any new agricultural purchases by companies that are wholly or partly controlled by the Chinese government and bar Chinese-owned farms from tapping federal support programs.
That move followed a contentious debate over the potential consequences for Asian Americans if Congress adopted a provision aimed squarely at China. Rep. Grace Meng (D-N.Y.) said that if the amendment was about national security, buyers from other countries should also face similar restrictions. “It would perpetuate already rising anti-Asian hate,” Meng warned at the markup.
But Meng, Newhouse and committee leaders indicated they would find a solution as the legislation winds through Congress. The measure is expected to reach the House floor before the end of July, as part of a broader appropriations package, although the Senate has not yet drafted its own version of the spending bill.
“We are new in this process,” said Rep. Sanford Bishop (D-Ga.), chair of the agriculture appropriations subcommittee. “I would suggest that we sit down and we work through it so we can accomplish our objective, but do it in a way that is sensitive to all those who might be somewhat offended by the approach.”
Scrutiny of foreign-owned agricultural operations receiving taxpayer subsidies has also been rising in recent years after meatpacking conglomerates like the U.S. subsidiary of Brazilian-owned JBS received millions of dollars under the Trump administration’s trade bailout starting in 2018.
Smithfield was also in line to receive money from the program, which was created to help U.S. farmers strung by trade retaliation from China and other competitors. But the company backed out of its contract with USDA after an outcry from lawmakers led by Sen. Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa).
The renewed focus on curbing foreign farm purchases comes as Biden and Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack roll out a series of actions to bolster the food supply chain, following major disruptions caused by the pandemic.
That effort includes greater scrutiny of large meat processing companies like JBS and Smithfield, as well as plans to tighten the requirements for meat to be labeled a “Product of the USA.”
While lawmakers remain laser-focused on Chinese buyers, other nationals own much more agricultural property in the United States.
Foreign investors by the end of 2019 held an interest in more than 35 million acres — an area bigger than New York State. The total has grown by an average 2.3 million acres per year since 2015, according to USDA data.
A few states, including top agricultural centers like Iowa and Minnesota, already have varying restrictions on foreign ownership of their farmland. As a presidential candidate in 2019, Warren said she would support a national version of Iowa’s law along with safeguards against foreign investors using “fake American buyers” to circumvent the rules.
Those seeking more restrictions say USDA’s numbers actually understate the amount of foreign control over American ag operations. The data is based on a 1978 law directing foreign nationals to report their U.S. agricultural holdings to USDA — a requirement that can be difficult for the department to enforce.
For example, foreign investors can set up limited liability companies in the U.S. and designate an American owner to circumvent the reporting requirements while still controlling the operation behind the scenes, said Joe Maxwell, president of the progressive advocacy group Family Farm Action.
“It’s a massive undertaking to verify who really owns [the land],” Maxwell said. “These foreign interests are pretty smart. They use different business structures to further conceal it.”
While some states have strict laws in place, others are more open to foreign investments. Texas has the largest amount of foreign-held agricultural land, at 4.4 million acres, followed by Maine and Alabama, according to USDA.
The money flowing into agricultural real estate from other countries also makes it difficult for new farmers in the U.S. to afford land as outside buyers bid up prices. Maxwell said that poses a big risk with an older generation of farmers set to exit the industry.
“When this land changes hands, they’re going to gobble it up,” he said of foreign buyers. “These investments artificially increase the value of that land, which then denies young and beginning farmers opportunities to farm.”
Most Americans Have ‘Cold’ Views of China. Here’s What They Think About China, In Their Own Words
Negative views of China have increased substantially since 2018. Today, 67% of Americans have “cold” feelings toward China on a “feeling thermometer,” rating the country less than 50 on a 0 to 100 scale. This is up from just 46% who said the same in 2018. The intensity of these negative feelings has also increased: The share who say they have “very cold” feelings toward China (0-24 on the same scale) has roughly doubled from 23% to 47%.
But what do Americans think specifically about China beyond a number that represents their opinion of the country on a feeling thermometer? To understand this, we asked them an open-ended question: “What’s the first thing you think about when you think about China?” We analyzed the first five references in each response and found that Americans rarely brought up the Chinese people or the country’s long history and culture. Instead, they focused primarily on the Chinese government – including its policies or how it behaves internationally – as well as its economy. Human rights, China’s economy and the country’s political system were referenced most by Americans, coming up among 20%, 19% and 17% of respondents, respectively.
While these broad categories are informative, highlighting the frequency of certain topics and themes, the nuance evident in many responses is important in its own right. Below you can explore what Americans say is top of mind when it comes to China, based on the “feeling thermometer” score that they gave the country.
0°
“Uyghur Muslim persecution, detention and ‘reeducation’ = ethnic cleansing and a thorough disregard for basic human rights. A lack of freedom of speech, freedom of press, and freedom of movement. The systematic dismantling of Hong Kong’s democracy and the unlawful detention of those activists.”
Woman, Democrat, 18-29
10°
“Communist, does not value human rights, bully, hard to deal with.”
Woman, Republican, 30-49
50°
“Not much free speech, callous attitude toward animals, wet markets, hubs for disease.”
Woman, Democrat, 30-49
50°
“If we lose China as an ally, our own country will go bankrupt. We depend on them a lot for items we purchase each day or week. Also, I believe if they were against the U.S., it would cause World War III.”
Woman, Republican, 50-64
50°
“The majority of our products are manufactured there and we buy them and sell them at a higher cost. This makes the U.S. money, but it’s also supplying jobs to China and reducing jobs in the U.S. It also feeds China’s economy. If we manufactured more product in the U.S., we would make a bigger profit and create more jobs, and all money would stay in the U.S. and boost our economy.”
Woman, Democrat, 30-49
15°
“Communism, government propaganda, prisoner work camps, stolen intellectual property, bootleg merchandise, child labor, environmental pollution, crimes against humanity.”
Woman, Democrat, 30-49
50°
“The government of China stifles personal freedoms like speech. They are a large contributor to pollution and they are becoming increasingly aggressive from a military standpoint.”
Man, Republican, 30-49
10°
“Human rights abuses, threats to our national security.”
Man, Democrat, 65+
0°
“I think China wants to dominate the world in every respect and they don’t care if the world views them as ruthless. It would not surprise me if history will later show that COVID-19 was a biological weapon released intentionally by the Chinese Communist Party or their military.”
Woman, Republican, 65+
10°
“Everything is made there. They rule the world.”
Woman, Democrat, 30-49
0°
“A very populous country whose communist leadership is determined to be the world’s largest economy and to be positioned to continually flex its military and financial prowess to the benefit of its communist leadership and party. If left unchecked by the United States and its allies, it is and will continue to be a very problematic country on the world stage.”
Man, Republican, 65+
50°
“Technology advancements, test guinea pigs, human overpopulation, pollution from commercial buildings, manners and kindness to others, rich history.”
Woman, Democrat, 30-49
50°
“Despite the coronavirus growth a year ago, I was impressed about how fast they moved to stop the virus spread. They shut down huge cities, built hospitals in just days, followed guidelines we in the U.S. should have had like masking, distancing, and so on. They came out of it faster. But the focus [of] former U.S. President Trump was to blame China for the virus instead of following CDC guidelines. If he did, we would be living somewhat normal lives today with the virus under control.”
Man, Democrat, 65+
50°
“The first thing that comes to mind about China is shopping for cheap goods. Items I would pay triple for. Also, of course the open meat market and COVID-19.”
Woman, Democrat, 50-64
10°
“Trade, unfair practices with U.S. companies wanting to do business in China, taking over Taiwan, Tiananmen Square.”
Woman, Democrat, 50-64
50°
“I think China [handled] the COVID-19 breakout very well due to the government system and people have resumed normal life.”
Woman, Democrat, 30-49
60°
“They make good products, including tasteful clothing. They are our competitor but not our enemy.”
Man, Democrat, 65+
10°
“They take unfair advantage of many other countries. I feel that they will soon invade Taiwan.”
Woman, Republican, 65+
0°
“They’re trying to dominate the world. We should do what is necessary to prevent that from happening.”
Woman, Republican, 65+
0°
“China is a communist country that doesn’t believe in civil rights for their people. Their goal is global domination. They rule by brute force.”
Man, Republican, 50-64
60°
“I think of the culture and the long history of art and philosophy that the world has gained from China. I think, also, of the controlling and restrictive government, their terrible human rights record, and their seeming desire for more and more control. I also think about how we need to be partners with them if we are ever to properly take on global warming. Of course, it’s hard not to also think of COVID-19 and how it has been managed there.”
Woman, Democrat, 30-49
30°
“We cannot trust them, they are on the offense at all times with our democracy, trade and weapon capabilities.”
Woman, Democrat, 50-64
70°
“Lots of people and a deep, rich culture.”
Woman, Democrat, 18-29
0°
“Atheistic government that values control over everything. A country that will prioritize silencing and killing its people to promote unquestioning loyalty through fear. A global leader in pollution and carbon emissions that cannot be trusted or allowed to expand.”
Man, Republican, 30-49
25°
“The U.S. has dug itself into a hole with regards to our Chinese relations. Because of our desire to have extremely inexpensive goods, we have shifted lots of national manufacturing to foreign sites. This is a double-edged sword and ties our hands. We are forced to do business with China. In simple terms it is the fault of the American public that Chinese workers are subjected to the conditions they face in their factories. The only real way to fix this situation is to slow our reliance on imported goods. That would mean the average American has to make a conscious effort to purchase U.S.-made goods. The main barrier here is the lack of choice (not as easily available) and the higher price that often comes with these goods.”
Man, Democrat, 30-49
75°
“Overpopulation, cheap labor, beautiful lands, agriculture, trade embargoes, complicated language, huge land mass, technology.”
Woman, Democrat, 18-29
90°
“Economic powerhouse.”
Woman, Democrat, 18-29
25°
“I think about the human rights abuses, such as the indefensible treatment of the Uyghurs, as well as the infringements of personal freedoms suffered by all citizens. I think about the gender imbalances still present from the one-child laws of the past, which further harms their society. I think about the centuries of rich culture and history that created incredible art and architecture, as well as incredible inventions that furthered humanity as a whole.”
Woman, Democrat, 30-49
25°
“Not trustworthy. Wish they didn’t hold so much U.S. debt.”
Man, Democrat, 50-64
20°
“Oppressive and domineering of its own people. Sophisticated propaganda machine. World economic dominance. Fishy motivations behind major transportation-related projects in less developed nations. Mandated idolatry putting Chinese government above God. Manipulation of citizens, invasion of privacy. Efficient online delivery services within the country. Enabling horrendous oppression in North Korea. Buying up influence in U.S., especially Hollywood, AMC theaters to influence our opinions.”
Woman, Republican, 65+
5°
“Massive economic power that cares little about their workers but have brain washed them with propaganda into thinking that they matter. It’s hard to compete economically with a nation that has a workforce that puts their jobs and allegiance to country above all else. Their workforce is so industrious. The workers are like robots. Everything I buy says ‘Made in China.’”
Woman, Democrat, 50-64
0°
“China has been oppressing its people for years. They steal U.S. intellectual property and demand unfair trade practices. They have increased their military actions, taken over disputed land, and built a base. Not to be trusted!!!”
Man, Republican, 50-64
50°
“Strict mandates on Chinese population from the government. Large population. Huge exporters of cheap goods. Emphasis on education.”
Woman, Democrat, 50-64
25°
“The U.S. has become reliant on Chinese manufacturing. China needs to answer for many human rights offenses. Accountability is necessary and that’s difficult when many nations rely heavily on exports from China.”
Identify as neither man or woman, Democrat, 18-29
40°
“A country of humans, like all the other countries. An innovative, smart, and hardworking people. Their willingness to meet the needs of the global economy supersedes environmental and prudent usage of resources, which is disturbing.”
Man, Democrat, 30-49
50°
“Cruel communist dictatorship, crude capitalist economy, and no environmental laws.”
Man, Democrat, 65+
22°
“Anti-democratic, one-party state breaking promises to Hong Kong, Uyghur concentration camps, forced labor.”
Man, Democrat, 50-64
33°
“A great civilization in long decline, possessing technological might. The possibility of civilizational rebirth from within China is probably overburdened by the totalitarian government; but a few works of art, literature, movies, touched with greatness, still emerge from time to time, so there must be hope.”
Man, Republican, 65+
60°
“They manufacture a lot. We should learn their ideas. They beat the coronavirus, too.”
Woman, Democrat, 50-64
20°
“Powerful nation with global impact, for better or worse. Questionable policies regarding territorial expansion and human rights.”
Man, Democrat, 18-29
30°
“China has little respect for its citizens. They use their military might to bully the less powerful countries. I feel they have little respect for the lives of their military.”
Man, Republican, 65+
50°
“Many of the Chinese people I have met have been good people. Their leaders may be problematic.”
Man, Democrat, 30-49
30°
“Poor human rights record, communist, suppression of individual rights.”
Man, Democrat, 30-49
0°
“Unfair trade practices, spying on the U.S., human rights violations, pollution, communism, enemy of the U.S.”
Man, Republican, 50-64
50°
“I like their food.”
Man, Democrat, 30-49
80°
“China is a large economic presence in the world. The U.S. needs to work with China instead of condemning them. We need to develop a good, working, respectful relationship with them, and, then, human rights issues could he addressed in future.”
Woman, Democrat, Age refused
30°
“China is a beautiful country with a fascinating culture. But, as a woman, I am appalled by the oppression of women that is so common there.”
Woman, Democrat, 18-29
40°
“I think China has made a calculation that it will relegate all else to lifting its people out of poverty. They have been amazingly effective doing so, but have shown a willingness to trample rights, and ignore environmental impacts in the process.”
Man, Democrat, 30-49
40°
“Vast economic growth in the last 50 years, but much factory-caused pollution, kind of like where America was 100 years ago.”
Man, Democrat, 50-64
35°
“Government is assuming control over every aspect of their citizens’ lives. They are trying to become the number one power in the world.”
Man, Democrat, 65+
0°
“The Chinese leaders have always taken the long view and will patiently let countries like the U.S. and others self-destruct for short term gain, such as gutting the U.S. industrial base for short-term profits obtained by locating our manufacturing in China.”
Man, Democrat, 65+
60°
“My husband grew up there. The current government is autocratic and aggressive. China is important and we must work with it as best we can.”
Woman, Democrat, 65+
15°
“China has its goal to overtake the United States in world dominance. They also want to destroy democracy.”
Sex refused, Republican, 65+
30°
“Wuhan, where the pandemic started probably a lot earlier than the Chinese let on. If China had been upfront with the with the world at the beginning, more lives would have been saved.”
Woman, Democrat, 50-64
25°
“Human trafficking, overpopulation, traditions in some regions, COVID-19, food.”
Woman, Republican, 18-29
30°
“Growing world power. Strong military and economy with more capitalistic elements than before. Repressive politically, strong censorship and control, limited concern about human rights. Trade and technical advancements and violations.”
Woman, Democrat, 65+
10°
“I visited China as a tourist in 1998. I noticed the presence of armed military personnel everywhere we went. We were limited in our exposure to the general population. The air pollution in Beijing at that time was so bad that we were all affected by it. I know they are not supporting human rights for their citizens, and that, recently, they have begun monitoring the population, setting up ‘social scorecards’ for everyone, depending on the surveillance information they obtain. George Orwell’s predictions about Big Brother have come to pass!”
Woman, Democrat, 65+
50°
“Trump messed up our relationship with them. We need to get along. I don’t know how human rights are over there but they seem to be doing well overall.”
Man, Democrat, 30-49
0°
“China is an authoritarian regime and its citizens are only exposed to government-sponsored information, effectively cutting them off from the realities of the world. China was only able to keep the COVID-19 pandemic from spreading in its borders because it limited people’s rights and confined people against their will.”
Man, Democrat, 18-29
50°
“Economic powerhouse, totalitarian regime, genocidal takeover of Southeast Asia, reaching into Africa.”
Woman, Democrat, 65+
0°
“Intellectual property theft, unfair economic player, authoritarian government, slave labor.”
Man, Republican, 30-49
18°
“China is an economic powerhouse and large market, but has achieved that due to strong and continued suppression of human rights in a police state.”
Man, Democrat, 30-49
40°
“VERY restrictive government, rich culture, wealthy, military power, beautiful unique nature.”
Woman, Democrat, 30-49
50°
“Massive population that powers a large part of the world’s economy.”
Man, Party refused, 30-49
85°
“An economic superpower, a strong military, a history of questionable human rights”
Man, Democrat, 50-64
25°
“Communist country that is too rigid with human rights. Large, powerful country and economy that has a large share of global influence.”
Woman, Democrat, 50-64
20°
“Makes too many needed products, controls and oppresses its people.”
Woman, Republican, 50-64
10°
“We cannot trust them. They hope to control world power.”
Woman, Democrat, 65+
50°
“Emerging authoritarian superpower.”
Man, Democrat, 18-29
40°
“I mostly think about the authoritarian government and their censorship. Also their very poor treatment of Muslims.”
Man, Democrat, 18-29
5°
“We rely TOO MUCH on goods from China. China is trying to dominate the whole world and we are supporting that with the stuff we buy from them. Too bad their scientists seem to be smarter than ours. And they are welcomed here as students. We have to stop kissing China’s a**.”
Man, Republican, 65+
0°
“They would like to take control of America. They already control Biden.”
Woman, Republican, 50-64
0°
“Stolen intellectual property, human rights abuses, lack of personal freedoms, lack of transparency, lies.”
Man, Republican, 65+
5°
“Threat to world security, indifferent toward other countries, dangerous.”
Man, Republican, 65+
30°
“Cheap labor pool exploited by our own multinational corporations in order to kill our unions.”
Man, Democrat, 30-49
100°
“There are human rights issues in China, however [there] are also huge human rights issues in the U.S. We can’t simply judge and force China into making needed changes when internally the U.S. is doing a terrible job. I work directly with people from China and from a daily life perspective, people don’t feel like not having freedoms or trying to fly from government control. There is a lot to do in China but there is also a lot to do in the U.S. to respect women, Black, Hispanic, other minorities and children’s lives. I feel there is a lot of control and lack of freedoms in the U.S.”
Woman, Democrat, 30-49
20°
“Poor handling of the coronavirus pandemic, distrust of the Chinese government, and concern over the growing military and suppression of democracy.”
Woman, Democrat, 50-64
50°
“A strong economy, built on the backs of human rights violations and horrible pollution.”
Woman, Democrat, 30-49
0°
“Not a good trading partner, they want to weaken the U.S. and want to dominate the world. Not trustworthy.”
Woman, Republican, 65+
10°
“A communist state that uses it citizens as slave labor for world markets.”
Man, Republican, 30-49
62°
“I think the United States needs to wake up regarding China. China has a rising middle class and it’s building infrastructure. In this way, China is a threat to United States’ dominance on the world stage. The United States is a nation full of aging infrastructure with many major bridges, but engineering achievements seem to be a thing of the past. The United States should: #1. Be focused on having a strong middle class. The Cold War was won partly on the strength of our standard of living. #2. The United States could invest in upgrading infrastructure, providing much-needed jobs while making vastly overdue improvements in infrastructure. A strong middle class and jobs and engineering achievements strengthens our nation and may help this divided country to a degree.”
Woman, Democrat, 50-64
0°
“Human rights abuses, religious persecution, intellectual theft, patent infringement, market manipulation, communist dictatorship, authoritarian.”
Man, Republican, 18-29
0°
“The goal of China is to take over the U.S. and the world. Joe Biden is complicit in allowing this to happen. He is basically a puppet of the CCP.”
Woman, Republican, 65+
50°
“Repressive communist regime, human rights violations.”
Man, Democrat, 50-64
40°
“China scares me a bit because their government has a lot of power. I have some friends who used to live in China and they tell me now how much they invade on your privacy, but everyone is okay with it.”
Man, Republican, 18-29
45°
“A sleeping dragon of economic potential. They are scary, as their government thinks in hundred-year plans, and our government thinks in four-year plans.”
Man, Republican, 30-49
85°
“There’s a difference between China and its culture, as compared to China and its government. American people need to learn how to make that distinction and stop being so racist.”
Woman, Democrat, 18-29
60°
“An ancient and beautiful culture. Friendly, community-minded people. Concerned with bellicose foreign policy. Concerned with their treatment of ethnic and cultural minorities.”
Man, Democrat, 30-49
50°
“Advanced technology and education, less civil freedom.”
Woman, Democrat, 50-64
1°
“China is the biggest threat to world peace and the economies of all the world’s leading nations. China has even publicly stated its intention to control the world economy. We must stop this from happening in order to protect human rights here in the United States.”
Man, Democrat, 50-64
10°
“Evil leadership, fascist, persecuted citizens”
Man, Republican, 50-64
0°
“Communist dictatorship. Biggest threat to U.S. Very repressive to its own people. Internment camps for Muslim Uyghurs. Nine-dash line in South China Sea is totally against international law. Exploitative in dealing with Third World countries.”
Man, Republican, 65+
10°
“Cheap consumables, made through forced (and likely child) labor, reeducation camps, pollution, decimating species over presumed health benefits.”
Woman, Democrat, 65+
10°
“They oppress their people and minority groups. They’re one of the worst perpetrators of crimes against humanity. However, it is complicated because they’re such a massive economic force and often corporate interests override humanitarian interests.”
Man, Republican, 18-29
30°
“I think of a country with a rich history and culture that is now, along with its population, subjugated by a totalitarian government that is, for the most part, at least based on my knowledge, accepted by the population because of the deep-seated manipulation that the government engages in.”
Man, Democrat, 18-29
30°
“The coronavirus, overpopulation, poor air quality in the cities, poor quality of many products except for technology.”
Woman, Democrat, 65+
0°
“China is an aggressive country which does not value human rights. China is going to be the biggest threat to the U.S. The U.S. is a democratic country and many things can easily be hampered or delayed, but no one can stop Chinese government from taking harsh action or coming up with policies not acceptable to other countries.”
Man, Republican, 30-49
30°
“They should face consequences for their role in covering up and hampering COVID-19 efforts and other international issues. I support a U.S. recognition of Taiwan as a consequence.”
Man, Democrat, 30-49
35°
“COVID-19, competition, Great Wall.”
Man, Democrat, 65+
50°
“They are aggressive in manufacturing dominance at the expense of ethics or human rights. Also they are working to increase their standing as a world power: economically, militarily and in terms of [gross national product].”
Man, Democrat, 65+
0°
“Communism, dictatorship, abusive to its people, liars, can’t be trusted, power hungry, poor leadership, dishonest.”
Woman, Republican, 50-64
50°
“It’s a powerful country that wasn’t taken seriously soon enough and now we’re playing catch-up.”
Woman, Democrat, 18-29
40°
“China has become a superpower maybe even stronger than the U.S. due to the coronavirus. While we are fighting over stupid things in the U.S., the whole world is laughing at us.”
Man, Republican, 18-29
50°
“Manufacturing, communism, a billion people.”
Man, Democrat, 30-49
5°
“Untrustworthy. They have a proven track record of NOT being able to be trusted to do the right thing. They kill and imprison anyone who acts counter to the Communist Party line. The cut corners, so from flooring to food, everything they produce should be harshly scrutinized before being consumed. They ARE the major threat to U.S. prosperity, world peace and world health.”
Man, Republican, 50-64
75°
“The U.S. needs to work closely with China because they make everything!!!”
Man, Democrat, 50-64
75°
“China has a major lead on industry over the U.S.”
Woman, Republican, 30-49
30°
“China is the origin country for COVID-19 but they managed to keep the virus from spreading further, way better than the U.S.”
Woman, Democrat, 30-49
20°
“Made in China, sweatshops, poor living conditions, taking advantage of the people.”
Man, Democrat, 30-49
50°
“Critical to our economy, ruthless with its population (human rights violations), willing to bend the rules to get ahead (devaluing currency).”
Man, Democrat, 18-29
50°
“I think about communism and lack of personal freedoms. Everything mandated nationally. I work with people from China so have an idea of their culture and business and customs.”
Woman, Democrat, 65+
45°
“I think how much it has changed since I first visited in the ’70s when everyone rode bicycles. They have pursued a path toward becoming an aggressive territorial power, pushing and expanding their boundaries. They treat their ethnic minority populations very poorly, even criminally. This saddens me. At one time I was very pro-China. Now, they worry me.”
Man, Democrat, 65+
50°
“Although China has great human atrocities, leverages great control over its people, and steals technology, it has had great economic and medical advances in the past years. While there is much controversy in expanding U.S.-China relations, keeping them as allies is to our advantage.”
Woman, Democrat, 50-64
50°
“Huge country, exports, secretive, secluded.”
Woman, Democrat, 50-64
25°
“I think China is currently going through a much more authoritarian phase than it was even a few years ago. I feel that the treatment of the Muslim minority Chinese people is inexcusable and horrific, and it shows that we don’t actually care about human rights that no one has demanded China change.”
Woman, Democrat, 30-49
45°
“They have killed us financially. I love their food.”
Man, Republican, 18-29
50°
“Dictatorship, human rights, dealt with the coronavirus in a proactive way by shutting down the country.”
Woman, Democrat, 65+
35°
“The Chinese people are great but their government is too brutal and authoritarian. They have zero regard for international law and intellectual property agreements.”
Man, Republican, 50-64
40°
“Too many cheap products are [being] imported from China. We are becoming a wasteland for these products. Flip over almost any product at Walmart and you will see it is from China. Sam Walton would be ashamed. Everyone wants more for less. We are gluttonous. Products we all need on a daily basis have prices through the roof … everything else is crap from China.”
Woman, Democrat, 65+
10°
“I can remember when history books showed pictures of people sweeping the streets with brooms. They have come a long way since then. I think that their young people are learning more than our young people.”
Woman, Democrat, 65+
0°
“In my opinion China is an autocratic dictatorship led by a tyrant, Xi Jinping; the government of China, the Chinese Communist Party is an amoral kleptocracy interested merely in its own survival and not at all concerned with the welfare of its citizens. It’s readily apparent that the Chinese government is a bad-faith actor in world affairs increasingly resorting to economic and military threats to deal with the rest of the world. At the height of the COVID-19 pandemic last summer (which China covered up, to this day they’ve only reported 5,000 deaths in a country of almost 2 billion people) China was busy flexing its military across Asia. What sensible nation would do that?”
Man, Republican, 30-49
45°
“China’s central government, which is not oriented toward social liberty, is well aware of the economic power (a continually growing economy with a strong industrial base) it wields and is ambitious – just like the U.S. government – to turn that to political advantage on a global scale.”
Man, Democrat, 50-64
25°
“China is a beautiful and culturally rich world power. They have an exceedingly strong economy and a growing consumer middle class. They have a strong centralized government loosely masked as a communist republic. In reality it is closer to an authoritarian state, with many examples of the government publicly putting country over people.”
Man, Democrat, 18-29
20°
“Large country. Overall, economically and socially unified by government, unfortunately at the expense of suppressing minority rights and freedoms. They are also a country that values money and profit over the environment. They are a country with history on their side and so their worldview is different than many Europeans or North American people.”
Woman, Democrat, 50-64
50°
“U.S. debt and nuclear arms. Knowing that China isn’t ready to come to the table to discuss limitations on nuclear weapons is of concern.”
Woman, Republican, 50-64
70°
“China’s economic growth looks very strong but the country always has serious human right issues.”
Man, Democrat, 30-49
20°
“I think China is our largest threat. If we don’t make some changes soon against what China is being allowed to do in the U.S. we are going to be in serious trouble.”
Man, Republican, 50-64
50°
“I heard about the camps in China and how they may be breaking human right laws.”
Woman, Democrat, 30-49
45°
“Cheap goods, large market, technologically advancing far too quickly for our interests.”
Man, Democrat, 65+
90°
“Economic powerhouse, rising importance, delicious food.”
Man, Democrat, 30-49
20°
“Up and coming world superpower with little interest in human rights. Also, major pollution concerns and exploitation of the country’s poor.”
Man, Democrat, 30-49
0°
“Communist, anti-freedom, anti-human rights, Biden puppeteer.”
Man, Republican, 30-49
40°
“Focused on economic progress at the expense of individual freedoms to think and act in any way not approved by the government. Strong focus on improving environmental policies but not at the expense of economic growth. A desire to exert its influence and control over foreign territories that it perceives are rightfully owned by China, regardless of what the people that live in those locations want.”
Man, Democrat, 18-29
0°
“Hong Kong and civil rights, apocalyptic environmental damage, communism.”
Man, Republican, 18-29
40°
“China is the biggest threat to the U.S. They are building their military and hold the upper hand on us because of debt. They are shrewd and no doubt are spying on a regular basis. We must be very cautious when dealing with China.”
Man, Republican, 65+
30°
“China is becoming a world leader in economics. The issue is they manipulate their currency, which negatively effects the global economy. They also do not have a great record of treating their people fairly. They are able to produce goods cheaply, however that economic influx is not given to the people. Instead, it’s held by the government.”
Man, Republican, 30-49
20°
“Repressive, aggressive, good people, bad government.”
Man, Democrat, 65+
65°
“A vast and diverse country with incredible innovation, natural beauty, etc. A government that wants continued growth and uses control mechanisms to achieve this.”
Woman, Democrat, 18-29
25°
“Huge cybersecurity risk for the U.S., increasingly threatening militarily, huge damage to U.S. economy via international trade, risk to U.S. financial stability via holdings of government bonds, remains totalitarian while modernizing, potential for better relations through joint programs.”
Man, Democrat, 50-64
30°
“They’re trying to become the world leader. They steal information from us. Very poor human rights. Oppress Christians. Very good at technology.”
Woman, Republican, 65+
80°
“Trade, the Great Wall, Chinese food.”
Man, Republican, 30-49
100°
“Great country! Powerful economy and the system is changing. The U.S. should change its bias on China and learn from it!”
Woman, Democrat, 30-49
20°
“They care little about other countries and people. They have a tight rein on their own people. They are one of the groups to watch about hacking into American systems.”
Woman, Democrat, 65+
50°
“China has a huge population. It is focused on increasing its economic and world influence and has a poor record on human rights. It has made large investments in real estate here in the U.S. and has taken over much of the manufacturing that had been done in the U.S. It has made inroads in alliances with other countries within the last four years as Trump ignored our allies and courted our foes. We need to regain good relations with other countries to limit China’s influence with them.”
Woman, Democrat, 65+
50°
“An industrial power we are dependent on. However, the pollution, human rights infringements, and overpopulation are concerning.”
Woman, Democrat, 65+
40°
“Awful human rights, polluted, and negatively affecting the U.S. economy.”
Woman, Democrat, 30-49
0°
“They are dangerous. They have too much power and control. They influence too many people here in the United States.”
Woman, Republican, 50-64
0°
“They want world dominance. They could care less about their average citizens. They are the worst polluters in the world.”
Woman, Republican, 65+
0°
“They are responsible for the China virus pandemic and knowingly tried to hide it. China was a key component in U.S. election fraud and fixing the election because they wanted Trump out and Biden in since he is as crooked as the Chinese government is.”
Man, Republican, 50-64
15°
“Cheats, liars, corrupt, bullies, polluters.”
Man, Republican, 30-49
30°
“A nation of great human resources which, if it can overcome its authoritarian traditions, could make great contributions to mankind.”
Man, Democrat, 65+
15°
“Technologically advanced, overpopulated, too controlling, especially regarding human rights, i.e., one-child rule.”
Woman, Republican, 65+
75°
“They are an up-and-coming industrial power and may soon overtake the United States.”
Man, Democrat, 65+
60°
“They manufacture a lot of consumer goods. They are a source of the majority of our PPE, which makes us too dependent on them in times of global crises. They have less effective regulatory controls for the manufacture of drugs, etc., so I have less trust in products from there.”
Woman, Democrat, 65+
20°
“They are leaders in too many ways! Highly intelligent and very innovative. Also very sneaky and dangerous with spying/intelligence. Very nefarious – not to be trusted. They are also our partners and competitors but may be our number one enemy!”
Woman, Democrat, 50-64
50°
“Emerging power, great potential, frightening government.”
Woman, Democrat, 65+
50°
“Authoritarian, industrial, human rights violations, South China Sea encroachment.”
Man, Democrat, 50-64
0°
“The Chinese people as individuals are no different than other people, but their government is a totalitarian communist regime bent on conquering its neighbors and land-grabbing, as shown by their takeover of Hong Kong.”
Man, Republican, 50-64
40°
“China is an ages-old culture that will likely play a leading role on the world stage moving forward.”
Man, Democrat, 50-64
50°
“Well, it is a country that has human rights problems but we need to have trade with them. We as a country have not done well with human rights so how can we tell other countries what to do when we have families going hungry and Black and Brown people not being treated fairly in our own borders? We need to clean our house before we can judge other countries.”
Woman, Democrat, 65+
70°
“Extensive poverty reduction of the Chinese population, impressive improvement of health care and education systems, religious intolerance, corruption.”
Woman, Democrat, 65+
40°
“Whenever the rare thought of China crosses my mind, I always think about how they have a quarter of the world’s population and I think about how I heard Catholicism was beginning to spread throughout the country.”
Man, Republican, 18-29
10°
“It is a totalitarian regime that suppresses human rights within its own population while trying to impose its dominance on its neighbors and eventually, worldwide.”
Man, Republican, 65+
25°
“China operates to improve its own self-interests and does not play on a level economic field with the free-market countries. They are improving the economic conditions of its emerging middle class. Our economic ties and relations are our best opportunity to work with China and ensure world peace.”
Man, Democrat, 65+
0°
“It’s a place that monitors its population in scary ways. Life there is great – if you aspire to be an automaton working for the state. Otherwise, it’s a corrupt, suffocating, totalitarian society.”
Man, Republican, 50-64
10°
“Communist, overpopulated, intent on becoming global economic/technologic/militaristic leader, cruel on human rights, social suppression.”
Woman, Democrat, 65+
70°
“I went to China in December and it was nice, actually!”
Woman, Democrat, 18-29
50°
“I think the way that they are dealing with those who protest and those that are Muslim is abhorrent.”
Woman, Democrat, 50-64
10°
“Must be a terrible place to live. I do not appreciate the release of COVID-19 on this planet and they were the major reason that it happened. I view them as an enemy of our nation, not an ally.”
Man, Republican, 65+
50°
“I think that too many of our things are imported from China. While that is good for them, it’s not always the best for us.”
Woman, Democrat, 30-49
30°
“China is run by leadership that has an imperialistic mindset. They are the ones that the U.S. needs to be very careful in dealing with, economically and politically.”
Man, Democrat, 30-49
30°
“Overpopulation, technology advancements, importance of higher education, COVID-19, and air pollution.”
Woman, Republican, 18-29
75°
“I think China has made great strides towards human rights and allowing their citizens more personal freedoms than before.”
Woman, Democrat, 30-49
15°
“Socialist, communist, dirty dealer, says one thing and does another, user of its people, wants to own the world.”
Man, Republican, 50-64
20°
“Oppressive government with Big Brother activities. They still encourage abortions. They treat some ethnic groups as slaves.”
Woman, Republican, 50-64
15°
“Brutal, authoritarian, communist dictatorship. Genocidal hellscape built on the bodies of hundreds of millions under Mao, possibly the most ruthless dictator who ever lived. Global adversary to freedom.”
Man, Republican, 18-29
0°
“Beware. They want to dominate the entire world and control every aspect of our lives. God help us all, especially the people who already live under their rule.”
Woman, Republican, 65+
45°
“Amazing history, communist roots, economic giant, global superpower, human rights violator, beautiful architecture/culture, and the largest threat to world peace.”
Man, Republican, 30-49
0°
“China is a country to be feared. Their leadership cannot be trusted. We should be harder on China in every way.”
Man, Republican, 65+
50°
“Communist, suppression, large economy, pollution.”
Man, Democrat, 50-64
0°
“China is already at war with the U.S., along intellectual property theft, cybersecurity, and legal (‘law fare’) lines. Recent comments by China regarding Taiwan, its treatment of the Hong Kong situation, and the Chinese colonization of the South China Sea makes it clear they intend to push every boundary to extract every advantage they can. They fight on every level, and we’re too dumb to take any useful action.”
Woman, Republican, 30-49
10°
“Human rights suppression, espionage and cyberattacks.”
Woman, Democrat, 50-64
0°
“China is a communist country which wants world domination and will do anything to achieve that. They purposefully spread the coronavirus to the world.”
Woman, Republican, 50-64
20°
“Their involvement in the U.S. and around the world to obtain world domination. Also, the work camps for Muslims and their own slave labor.”
Woman, Republican, 65+
0°
“China is a terrorist state. They seek to control the U.S. They should not be classified as a friend but as a foe.”
Woman, Republican, 50-64
25°
“China is far ahead of the U.S. when it comes to tech. The United States has fallen behind. Also, China uses its wealth to influence and gain control of other countries. This must be addressed.”
Man, Democrat, 50-64
20°
“They are a world power and need to be taken seriously when it comes to their colonization of other countries.”
Man, Democrat, 50-64
30°
“Totalitarianism, censorship, state-backed companies.”
Man, Democrat, 30-49
25°
“Largest population, communism, everything is made in China.”
Woman, Republican, 30-49
0°
“The leader is a dictator who uses force on his own people. The people are used to doing the bidding of the leaders. The leader will use various types of force on his people to make sure they conform even to the point of putting limits on the number of children they may have. He is also willing to use measures on his young men to make them into stronger and more aggressive people. They are, overall, very intelligent people. Their factories supply a huge supply of goods to countries all over the world, including our country. The people appear to be more structured and productive and disciplined than in our country.”
Woman, Republican, 65+
50°
“Manufacturing, lack of human rights, control of citizens.”
Woman, Republican, 30-49
10°
“Negatively: Civil unrest and the overwhelming lack of religious freedom. Positively: Their response to the coronavirus changed their infection and death rate significantly. Resourcefulness in economic endeavors. Neutrality: Frenemies.”
Sex refused, Republican, 50-64
20°
“Human rights issues, excessive emissions causing very bad air, government subsidies to companies to undercut other suppliers.”
Woman, Democrat, 50-64
0°
“I think about China as a communist country that oppresses their people. They do not have freedom of religion or speech.”
Woman, Republican, Age refused
0°
“A communist county that wants to rule the world at any cost.”
Man, Republican, 50-64
40°
“They are making way too much money from all their good, bad, cheap, and expensive products sold to the U.S.”
Woman, Democrat, 30-49
50°
“I think China steals U.S. secrets as a price of admission to their country. I also believe China fails at humanitarian rights.”
Woman, Democrat, 50-64
5°
“Terrifying country that continues to commit horrific human rights abuses and genocide. Currently the greatest threat to world peace. Too much economic power.”
Woman, Democrat, 30-49
25°
“China is a huge producer of manufactured goods. It has questionable labor practices and it has created greenhouse gases because of the size of its population and its goods production.”
Woman, Democrat, 50-64
10°
“Communist nation. Look at what they have done to Hong Kong.”
Man, Republican, 30-49
25°
“Oppression of democracy, spreads lies and propaganda.”
Man, Democrat, 50-64
40°
“China is positioning to be a world power. They are active in developing countries and their ascension to power will be bad for the U.S.”
Man, Democrat, 50-64
40°
“Leader in technology. Makes a lot of cheap products. A possible threat.”
Man, Democrat, 50-64
25°
“Fantastic culture, bad government.”
Man, Democrat, 30-49
20°
“One-party rule. No human rights or personal freedoms. Massive polluter. Regional opportunist. Creating islands to claim as their territory. Larger number of English speakers – more than in the U.S. Corrupt business practices producing knockoffs of U.S. products. Cyber warfare/hackers.”
Woman, Democrat, 50-64
30°
“A rising economic power with a huge workforce and technological abilities to influence America’s economy and elections.”
Woman, Democrat, 50-64
35°
“China seems to be the best in the world when it comes to oppressing minorities, even better than the United States, which is very difficult. What they are doing to the Uyghur population, what they’ve done to Hong Kong and Taiwan, it’s obvious that the power they wield isn’t done for the good of the world.”
Man, Democrat, 30-49
20°
“We should learn to effectively work with them but they cannot be trusted.”
Man, Democrat, 65+
50°
“China will eventually overtake America. Its population is around [four times] ours. As their economy develops and consumer spending rises, they will eventually eclipse us. The question is, when? COVID-19 has accelerated this process by around 10 years.”
Man, Republican, 30-49
6°
“China implements harmful economic policies for other countries and can be a bully. But economic relations are so intertwined that any action must be smart and calculated in order not to hurt U.S. economic interests.”
Woman, Democrat, 30-49
0°
“Communism, repression of the people, the government cannot be trusted.”
Woman, Republican, 65+
80°
“Huge, manufacturing, yummy food, overbearing government.”
Man, Democrat, 50-64
30°
“Economic powerhouse, increasing world power, poor human rights record, fascinating history and art.”
Woman, Democrat, 50-64
75°
“China is highly dedicated to improving the lives of its citizens but with a very strong central government that does not tolerate dissent.”
Man, Democrat, 65+
50°
“When I think of China I think of the tariffs imposed on America (not necessarily China’s fault). I think of cheap labor, many family members living in small homes, overpopulation, and pollution. I should learn more about China.”
Woman, Republican, 30-49
3°
“Totalitarian state where the whole is more important than the parts. Restricted human rights, unfair player in world marketplace.”
Man, Democrat, 65+
0°
“Communists who cannot be trusted, responsible for COVID-19, they take advantage of the U.S., their people do not have any freedoms and live like slaves.”
Woman, Republican, 50-64
5°
“Bloodsucking organ stealers. Murderers of their people. Enemies of God. The world needs to organize to stop them from pillaging small ignorant corrupt African countries. China is a rogue actor in the world economy and needs to be shut out of many economic markets all together. Parasitic politicians and leaders who have no moral values AT ALL. We were fools to give them hard-earned proprietary trade secrets in exchange for cheap manufacturing and products with sucky quality.”
Man, Republican, 65+
30°
“Authoritarian, Uyghur internment camps, strong economy, very rapid construction, Great Firewall.”
Man, Democrat, 30-49
22°
“A country of incredible vision, and an ability to navigate the political process in a way that allows it to continue to stay focused on goals over a long period of time. Also riddled with corruption, unfair balance of wealth, and ethnic prejudice.”
Man, Democrat, 30-49
70°
“It has economically and technologically progressed beyond expectations.”
Woman, Party refused, 30-49
50°
“There are a lot of things made in the U.S. that are made by China. I think we should make our own products and hire our own people.”
Woman, Democrat, 50-64
50°
“Strong trade, communist, large population, world leader in trade.”
Man, Democrat, 18-29
0°
“I think China wants to take over the United States. If we are not careful then we will all have to learn how to speak Chinese. I don’t trust China and President Trump did a good thing when it came to China.”
Woman, Republican, 50-64
25°
“China’s accomplishments can’t be denied. Quality of life for Chinese people has dramatically improved over the last five decades. That said, human rights are a huge issue. China is becoming increasingly authoritarian and oligarchic, the U.S. is undergoing similar change.”
Man, Democrat, 18-29
10°
“Threat to U.S. security and economy. Terrible human rights record. Terrible record of exploiting poorer countries. Terrible record of stealing U.S. technology. Terrible record of suppressing freedom. Bad record on the environment and global warming. Good at getting its people out of poverty, supplying basic day-to-day needs. Individual Chinese people are mostly good people, like most everywhere.”
Man, Democrat, 65+
0°
“Untrustworthy, determined to be the world’s largest economy and willing to go to war to achieve these things.”
Man, Democrat, 50-64
40°
“Terrible human rights. Oppressive government. Rich beautiful culture and history. Hurting people.”
Woman, Republican, 50-64
25°
“I think they have cheap labor to take jobs away from the American people. I also believe Joe Biden is in bed with them.”
Woman, Republican, 18-29
0°
“China is by far the biggest threat to world order since the Nazis in the 1930s. China has a long term strategy to destabilize and economically cripple the west by getting other countries reliant on them so they then have power to cut the world off with short notice.”
Man, Democrat, 30-49
75°
“When I think of China, I think of food. But from a political standpoint I also think about their successful war on poverty and how they were able to lift over 800 million people out of poverty. It is a truly incredible accomplishment.”
Man, Democrat, 18-29
0°
“Communist, totalitarian, abusive of its citizens, religiously intolerant, crushed freedoms, evil regime.”
Woman, Republican, 65+
30°
“I am very concerned about China’s human rights abuses. I acknowledge the importance of China for the U.S. economy but I do not understand the intricacies of that relationship.”
Woman, Democrat, 18-29
0°
“Totalitarian dictatorship, human rights abuser of its own people, dangerous military power, releaser of a pandemic on the world that could have been avoided, unfair trading partner, godless society.”
Man, Republican, 65+
0°
“Dangerous. Dictatorship. Does not respect freedom or human rights. Spies on citizens as well as noncitizens. Treats Hong Kong and Taiwan terribly and the world should not allow it. Only cares about their own country. Hypocritical with politics and economy. Steals U.S. technology, software, business practice, money, intellectual property.”
Man, Republican, 30-49
0°
“A country that steals intellectual property and manufactures shoddy and counterfeit goods. All of these points bring one thing to mind: domination, monopolies, and trade at all costs, without regards to any other country.”
Woman, Democrat, 65+
35°
“China suppresses its citizens and cares more about the interests of those in the highest echelons of government.”
Woman, Republican, 30-49
0°
“China is a fascist country that use religious minority slaves to make garments.”
Woman, Democrat, 18-29
25°
“I think China has grown too big. That normally wouldn’t be a problem but some of the things they have done lately is concerning to me. I don’t like that we owe them so much money. I don’t trust them anymore.”
Woman, Democrat, 50-64
45°
“Communism, human rights issues, Uyghur oppression, economic powerhouse.”
Man, Democrat, 30-49
20°
“I think of a few friends I have who are from China. From a world standpoint I think mostly about cheap plastic goods. I also think of limited personal freedom.”
Woman, Democrat, 30-49
30°
“China is using underage people to do work. Products brought in from China are cheap and poorly made. It is an overpopulated country. We should do less trading with this country and focus on our businesses here at home.”
Woman, Democrat, 65+
0°
“Totalitarian state with no human rights policies or due process for its citizens. Very unfair trade practices and uses its economic and military powers to exploit the global community.”
Woman, Democrat, 50-64
20°
“I do not like the communist government and its human rights abuses but I do like the Chinese people.”
Man, Republican, 50-64
5°
“Militaristic country with few personal rights and freedoms. Large population, country covers a large area and is seeking expansion.”
Woman, Republican, 65+
25°
“Has a large population, is ruled by one man (president, dictator?), has a long and amazing history!, Great Wall, repression of Uyghurs.”
Woman, Democrat, 65+
10°
“I’m concerned about the Chinese government but I don’t have a problem with their people. I worry it’s a militant state with genocidal treatment of the Uyghurs, monitoring of their populace with facial recognition and members of opposition disappearing.”
Woman, Democrat, 30-49
45°
“Manufacturing, fast-growing economy, possibly on track to be the next superpower.”
Woman, Democrat, 30-49
25°
“A growing global economic force entrenched in a pseudo-communist philosophy that puts the single party’s interest over those of its people.”
Man, Democrat, 50-64
50°
“Child labor, militant, geological site outsiders will never see, the East, golden child, cheap clothing online that don’t fit because it’s made poorly.”
Woman, Democrat, 30-49
50°
“Control of information, no free press, strong health care system, discrimination and persecution of ethnic groups, strong manufacturing and technology sectors.”
Woman, Democrat, 50-64
45°
“Large country, technologically capable, repressive.”
Man, Democrat, 65+
10°
“In terms of government: human rights violators, market manipulators, intellectual property thieves, aggressors. In terms of people: warm, kind, intelligent, smart, hardworking. In terms of the landscape: beautiful.”
Man, Democrat, 30-49
50°
“Technologically savvy, growing economy, dominant in future world affairs, too many people.”
Man, Democrat, 65+
30°
“The genocide of Uyghur culture. Oppressive state censorship. Vibrant, rich cultural history.”
Man, Republican, 18-29
40°
“Communism, Xi, the Great Wall, Beijing, Shanghai, Hong Kong, pandas.”
Woman, Democrat, 30-49
50°
“Pollution, lifelong leaders, trade deal challenges.”
Woman, Democrat, 50-64
0°
“The U.S. stands in their way of global domination. The U.S. has technology/biomedical secrets China will steal at any cost. China is actively looking for any and all means to damage our economy. China will use any dirty means against us: hacking, payment for influence with politicians or persons of interest, influencing our youth at the college level, misinformation or withheld information, espionage, military threat, biological threat, corrupt practices to turn allies, etc. Anything and everything for their goal of global economic and military dominance. A threat to the globe.”
Woman, Republican, 65+
25°
“I think China is the number one polluter on the planet and needs to be regulated by the world. But other than that it’s the U.S. business owners that fund China for their discounted textiles, inflating their markets while strangling ours. We need factories in the U.S. that are eco-friendly and bring back the textile businesses to Americans and lower production costs if we are ever to compete with China’s economy.”
Woman, Democrat, 30-49
10°
“Lack of protective labor laws, cheap labor, poor quality goods, starving people, dirty and polluted air, huge military force, cyber warfare, best hackers.”
Woman, Republican, 30-49
65°
“China is fast becoming the economic powerhouse of the world. Its abuse of human rights is one thing allowing this growth. Our trade policies must do more to address this part of its economy. Aside from that, its forward-looking economic and climate change advancements in alternative energy technologies are impressive.”
Man, Democrat, 65+
40°
“China has the potential to be a trading partner and can peacefully coexist with the U.S., but they must be held accountable for malign or dishonest behavior and/or practices.”
Man, Republican, 30-49
25°
“China has little concern for human rights. China has little concern when dealing with other nations. China steals technology. We need to reduce the trade imbalance with China.”
Man, Democrat, 65+
25°
“Economic powerhouse, cheap goods, trade deficit, endless labor force, Machiavellian.”
Woman, Democrat, 30-49
0°
“Billions of hardworking, good people and a small percentage of people in power that oppress their citizens. They steal whatever benefits them from other countries and have ambitions to be world dominant.”
Man, Republican, 50-64
50°
“China is a nation we need to pay close attention to. Its education of children shows they are smarter than us and it keeps its trades and finances secret. If it gets more firepower we can be in serious trouble. We must try to keep peace but trade with them must decrease.”
Woman, Republican, 30-49
50°
“I’ve visited China and loved the culture, the people. It’s a shame the government of China cannot be trusted but the Chinese people seem to be very happy there.”
Man, Republican, 50-64
40°
“China will be an important trading partner but they must be watched.”
Man, Republican, 50-64
20°
“Military dictatorship, aggressor in international conflicts, cannot be trusted.”
Man, Democrat, 30-49
25°
“Uyghur concentration camps/genocide. Limiting internet access, state-sponsored apps and websites, people unable to own homes and being forced instead to lease from the government. Death tolls from any disaster being underreported, huge population living in poverty. Their greenhouse gas emissions.”
Woman, Democrat, 18-29
20°
“I’ve been concerned with China’s response to the citizens of Hong Kong and their demands for democracy, as well as China’s treatment of the Uyghur population. Human rights and transparency are not high on China’s list of priorities.”
Woman, Democrat, 30-49
25°
“Stolen intellectual property rights, aggression in the South China Sea.”
Man, Republican, 50-64
50°
“Strong economy, powerful military, lack of human rights, social inequality.”
Woman, Democrat, 65+
25°
“They invented gunpowder. I think they need fewer ‘wet markets’ where many of these viruses seem to come from. Their people would be better off if the communist government was overthrown for something more democratic/socialistic. They need to improve their human rights record. We need to not be so dependent upon them for goods.”
Woman, Democrat, 50-64
25°
“They own much of our property. They make lots of money from us. They have always treated us with disrespect!”
Woman, Party refused, 65+
40°
“Incredible culture, threat to democratic norms and human rights.”
Man, Democrat, 30-49
50°
“Human rights violations, limited freedoms, but also the ability to better manage crises.”
Man, Democrat, 30-49
20°
“The CCP is a criminal organization holding China hostage. They are a threat to the world.”
Man, Republican, 50-64
30°
“Very scared of their military increasing in power. Very worried about their infiltration into our lives, spying on our industries.”
Woman, Republican, 65+
10°
“They are not to be trusted. They are only interested in advancing their ideas of socialism. They steal technology using spies and internet theft.”
Woman, Republican, 65+
40°
“Forced conformity, disregard for international environmental agreements, potential for great positive change, or the reverse.”
Man, Democrat, 50-64
10°
“Dictatorship, controlling, wants world domination.”
Woman, Republican, 30-49
30°
“China wants to be the leader in all international affairs. China also wants to be the leader in technology.”
Woman, Democrat, 50-64
50°
“They have things right. They take care of themselves. Don’t overpopulate and get an outstanding education.”
Woman, Republican, 30-49
50°
“Lots of people with little concern for other countries. They make lots of products to sell around the world and are trying to become an even bigger world power.”
Woman, Republican, 30-49
0°
“They cannot be trusted! They will lie, cheat, and steal anything they can from other countries. China will use their manufacturing of much of the world’s products as leverage whenever they can.”
Man, Republican, 65+
50°
“They need more democracy and transparency. Also more food regulations and fair pay for its people.”
Woman, Democrat, 18-29
30°
“Cheats. Their citizens are not given any say about their own country and are physically abused if they speak out.”
Woman, Democrat, 65+
7°
“China has a grasp of how its actions will affect its economic outlook far beyond that of U.S. politicians, and their authoritarian government allows them consistency that further strengthens their position. They know what they can get away with, and they abuse that power in gross human rights violations, from the daily oppression of their average citizens to the egregious attacks on Uyghurs that could easily be categorized as genocide.”
Man, Democrat, 30-49
50°
“Fair people, strict government, too many factories and pollution.”
Woman, Democrat, 18-29
40°
“Communist, genocide, oppression, economic powerhouse.”
Man, Democrat, 18-29
30°
“Crowded, government overreach into private lives, small families by government decree, neighborhood watch groups, stealing information from the U.S.”
Woman, Democrat, 65+
50°
“Wonderful, intelligent and entrepreneurial people who, unfortunately, are living under an undemocratic regime.”
Woman, Democrat, 50-64
20°
“I think China is full of human rights violations. I believe there are good people there, but not the government.”
Woman, Republican, 50-64
20°
“Intellectual property breaches, hacking/stealing technologies, cheap manufacturing, outsourcing, increasingly aggressive military, financial debt traps in other countries, human rights abuses.”
Man, Democrat, 18-29
0°
“China is for China. They will play the world so that they can take over the world. Look at what they are doing now in Hong Kong, and the plan to take over Taiwan. They steal technology.”
Man, Republican, 65+
50°
“I don’t think anything negative about the people in any way. I think that there is a lot of misinformation and misrepresentation, as well as fear mongering about foreign nations. I do feel that the Chinese government is not transparent in their actions and in the way they treat the people of their nation.”
Woman, Democrat, 18-29
1°
“Communist, racist dictatorship which can’t be trusted. It strives to achieve world dominance.”
Man, Party refused, 65+
10°
“A world leader that works against the interests of the U.S. and is harmful to individual freedoms.”
Man, Democrat, 50-64
10°
“They are an authoritarian country. They were where the virus started and they probably caused it to happen.”
Man, Republican, 65+
30°
“Oppression, censorship, secrecy.”
Woman, Democrat, 18-29
10°
“Overall, it is a very authoritarian country. I think of them persecuting Muslims and detaining journalists who speak out about human rights issues.”
Woman, Democrat, 30-49
Resources
agri-pulse.com, “Despite holding little US land, China remains focus of foreign ownership discussion.” By Noah Wicks; agweb.com, “China’s Latest Land Purchase Could Pose Major U.S. Security Risk.” By Jenna Hoffman; kiplinger.com, “5 Reasons NOT to Fear China (and 3 Reasons to Still Worry) In the 1980s, many Americans feared that fast-growing Japan would supplant the U.S.” By The Kiplinger Washington Editors; chiocapitaljournal.com, “Foreign entities buying U.S. farmland: threat or hyperbole?” BY NICK EVANS; politica.com, “China is buying up American farms. Washington wants to crack down. Bipartisan pressure is building to stop foreign nationals from purchasing American farm operations and receiving taxpayer subsidies.” By Ryan McCrimmon; pewresearch.org, “Most Americans Have ‘Cold’ Views of China. Here’s What They Think About China, In Their Own Words.” ;
Governmental and Political Posts Both National and International
https://common-sense-in-america.com/2020/11/04/is-the-democratic-party-the-judas-party/
https://common-sense-in-america.com/2020/10/15/what-are-the-panama-papers/
https://common-sense-in-america.com/2020/10/11/what-amendments-will-be-in-jeopardy-under-a-democratic-government/
https://common-sense-in-america.com/2020/10/04/nominating-and-vetting-supreme-court-justices/
https://common-sense-in-america.com/2020/09/24/george-soros-revealed/
https://common-sense-in-america.com/2020/08/24/hud-housing-mandates/
https://common-sense-in-america.com/2020/09/28/roe-vs-wade-redux/
https://common-sense-in-america.com/2020/09/14/chinas-100-year-plan-for-world-domination/
https://common-sense-in-america.com/2020/09/13/when-the-soviet-union-collapsed-what-type-of-government-did-it-take-and-does-it-still-exist/
https://common-sense-in-america.com/2020/09/11/israel-and-the-united-arab-emirate-brokered-deal-how-big-is-this/
https://common-sense-in-america.com/2020/09/11/the-plot-to-destroy-america-when-and-how-did-it-start/
https://common-sense-in-america.com/2020/08/26/what-ruined-this-country/
https://common-sense-in-america.com/2020/08/25/how-to-make-our-country-great-again/
https://common-sense-in-america.com/2020/08/18/socialism-explained/
https://common-sense-in-america.com/2020/08/17/communism-explained/
https://common-sense-in-america.com/2020/08/05/can-american-win-the-war-for-the-world-market/
https://common-sense-in-america.com/2020/07/30/do-you-remember-the-movie-independence-day/
https://common-sense-in-america.com/2020/07/22/why-does-the-left-hate-this-country/
https://common-sense-in-america.com/2020/07/16/essential-and-non-essential-businesses-blast-from-the-past-or-not/
https://common-sense-in-america.com/2020/07/13/cancel-culture-needs-to-end-its-unamerican/
https://common-sense-in-america.com/2020/07/09/financial-disclosure-for-politicians/
https://common-sense-in-america.com/2020/07/10/athletes-speak-out-but-who-cares/
https://common-sense-in-america.com/2020/06/26/why-democratic-leaders-are-okay-with-the-destruction-of-our-statues/
https://common-sense-in-america.com/2020/06/25/how-would-the-left-respond-to-the-right-if-they-reciprocated-with-violence/
https://common-sense-in-america.com/2020/06/25/what-drives-the-agenda-of-the-democratic-party-fear-or-far-left-ideology/
https://common-sense-in-america.com/2020/06/23/violence-and-fear-as-a-tool-of-the-left/
https://common-sense-in-america.com/2020/06/23/why-are-state-and-local-leaders-allowing-looting-and-rioting-to-occur/
https://common-sense-in-america.com/2020/06/21/did-christopher-columbus-deserve-a-statue/
https://common-sense-in-america.com/2020/06/20/give-an-inch-take-a-mile-the-age-of-aquiescence/
https://common-sense-in-america.com/2020/06/19/daca-right-or-wrong/
https://common-sense-in-america.com/2020/06/18/should-tax-payer-dollars-be-used-to-rebuild-decimated-cities/
https://common-sense-in-america.com/2020/06/18/the-national-debt-dangerously-high/
https://common-sense-in-america.com/2020/06/17/open-our-country-now/
https://common-sense-in-america.com/2020/06/16/green-new-deal-what-the-hell/
https://common-sense-in-america.com/2020/06/14/public-figures-speaking-out-good-or-bad/
https://common-sense-in-america.com/2020/06/12/rejuvenating-our-infrastructure/
https://common-sense-in-america.com/2020/06/12/our-history-deserves-to-be-protected-not-destroyed/
https://common-sense-in-america.com/2020/06/10/should-we-be-afraid-of-china-our-asian-competitor/
https://common-sense-in-america.com/2020/06/09/why-the-left-socialist-and-communist-hate-religion/
https://common-sense-in-america.com/2020/06/08/insurrection-act/
https://common-sense-in-america.com/2020/10/26/history-of-the-republican-party/
https://common-sense-in-america.com/2020/06/06/what-makes-a-leader-great/
https://common-sense-in-america.com/2020/06/05/government-reform-proposal-february-17-1999/
https://common-sense-in-america.com/2020/10/25/history-of-the-democratic-party/
https://common-sense-in-america.com/2020/10/31/what-does-the-socialist-democratic-party-think-of-the-american-people/
https://common-sense-in-america.com/2020/11/03/green-new-deal-what-the-hell-part-2/
https://common-sense-in-america.com/2020/11/06/china-and-russia-are-among-the-worlds-worst-human-rights-violators/
https://common-sense-in-america.com/2020/11/07/how-does-the-biden-sanders-platform-compare-to-the-1936-ussr-constitution/
https://common-sense-in-america.com/2020/11/13/voter-fraud-in-2020-how-will-effect-future-elections/
https://common-sense-in-america.com/2020/11/14/what-will-happen-if-biden-reverses-trumps-accomplishments/
https://common-sense-in-america.com/2020/11/17/the-confederate-constitution-what-can-we-learn-from-it/
https://common-sense-in-america.com/2020/12/08/our-new-two-party-system-where-is-it-taking-us/
https://common-sense-in-america.com/2020/12/04/what-will-become-of-our-capitalistic-society/
https://common-sense-in-america.com/2020/06/12/what-every-leader-needs-to-be/
https://common-sense-in-america.com/2020/06/06/what-makes-a-leader-great/
https://common-sense-in-america.com/2020/07/05/4th-of-july-celebration-2020/
https://common-sense-in-america.com/2020/12/22/roosevelt-stalin-and-churchill-how-they-formed-our-world/
https://common-sense-in-america.com/2021/01/29/what-gives-the-top-1-percent-the-right-to-rule-the-world/
https://common-sense-in-america.com/2021/02/26/impeachment-dissected/
https://common-sense-in-america.com/2021/02/28/is-the-equality-act-about-equality/
https://common-sense-in-america.com/2021/03/09/1871-us-corporation-fact-or-fiction/
https://common-sense-in-america.com/2021/03/12/are-we-entering-into-a-global-nuclear-cold-war/
https://common-sense-in-america.com/2021/04/16/our-2nd-amendment/
https://common-sense-in-america.com/2021/04/20/did-kerry-collude-with-iran/
https://common-sense-in-america.com/2021/04/25/what-is-cancel-culture/
https://common-sense-in-america.com/2021/04/30/what-happened-on-january-the-6th-and-what-were-the-repercussions/
https://common-sense-in-america.com/2021/05/07/what-is-a-filibuster-and-why-is-it-such-a-big-deal/
https://common-sense-in-america.com/2021/05/18/how-are-the-democrats-changing-the-country/
https://common-sense-in-america.com/2021/06/04/the-steele-dossier-exposed/
https://common-sense-in-america.com/2021/06/29/did-senator-manchin-save-our-country/
https://common-sense-in-america.com/2021/07/06/what-is-up-with-greenland/
https://common-sense-in-america.com/2021/07/23/what-are-the-democrats-doing-to-maintain-power/
https://common-sense-in-america.com/2021/08/03/why-people-hate-capitalism/
https://common-sense-in-america.com/2021/08/31/was-the-death-of-george-floyd-part-of-a-plot-to-destroy-america/
https://common-sense-in-america.com/2021/10/01/our-9-11-responses-in-retrospect/
https://common-sense-in-america.com/2021/11/26/what-is-the-difference-between-human-infrastructure-and-physical-infrastructure-why-are-we-even-discussing-this-at-the-federal-level/
https://common-sense-in-america.com/2021/11/30/what-gives-with-the-lincoln-project/
https://common-sense-in-america.com/2021/12/03/what-is-project-veritas/
https://common-sense-in-america.com/2022/01/28/how-the-left-is-destroying-our-country-revisited/
https://common-sense-in-america.com/2022/02/01/debunking-the-squad/
https://common-sense-in-america.com/2022/02/11/how-the-quincy-pact-shaped-our-relationship-with-saudi-arabia/
https://common-sense-in-america.com/2022/02/15/the-china-federation/
https://common-sense-in-america.com/2022/02/18/the-russia-federation-part-two/
https://common-sense-in-america.com/2022/02/22/are-china-and-russia-buddies/
https://common-sense-in-america.com/2022/02/25/what-is-the-hidden-cost-behind-the-green-new-deal/
https://common-sense-in-america.com/2022/02/27/putins-desperate-attempt-at-regaining-lost-glory/
https://common-sense-in-america.com/2022/03/04/why-are-hong-kong-and-taiwan-important-why-we-cant-roll-over-beethoven/
https://common-sense-in-america.com/2022/03/11/is-our-country-being-governed-by-the-mob/
https://common-sense-in-america.com/2022/03/15/when-will-putin-get-his-head-out-of-his-ass/
https://common-sense-in-america.com/2022/03/29/the-human-cost-of-socialism-and-communism/
https://common-sense-in-america.com/2022/04/12/what-has-to-be-done-in-2024-to-restore-our-country/
https://common-sense-in-america.com/2022/05/24/greenland-and-iceland-what-rolls-will-they-play-in-the-global-arena/
https://common-sense-in-america.com/2022/08/09/what-happens-to-the-us-if-china-gets-taiwan/
https://common-sense-in-america.com/2022/11/25/what-is-happening-in-ukraine-and-what-are-they-doing-with-our-money-and-weapons/
https://common-sense-in-america.com/2023/01/03/how-the-liberal-democratic-leadership-has-ruined-our-country/
https://common-sense-in-america.com/2023/01/10/china-is-buying-up-our-country-how-afraid-should-we-be/