Messaging Guidance:
Biden’s Engagement with China Delivers Results for the American People
April 2024
Background:
The American people are clear that they want an approach to the U.S.-China relationship that is firm and direct – but also smart and diplomatic. They want to see an approach that balances protecting the U.S. from threats like espionage and the spread of fentanyl while avoiding unnecessary confrontation that can escalate to conflict.
While the Trump Administration prioritized aggressive rhetoric and political posturing – the reality is that the only way to deliver results for the American people is to meet face-to-face with our competitors and find the common ground to keep us safe and secure. The Biden Administration is committed to delivering our national interests with dogged diplomacy, and adamant that this competition does not have to lead to conflict - exactly what the American people want to see.
Talking Points:
Donald Trump’s approach to China was erratic, antagonistic, and ineffective. He tried to play hardball with his counterparts in Beijing – but never delivered any real results for the American people.
Whether it was on trade, North Korea, or the COVID-19 pandemic, Donald Trump never succeeded in moving the Chinese – because his version of diplomacy is all bluster with no strategy and follow-through.
Worse yet, when his halfhearted attempts at dealmaking failed, his obsession with appearing tough led to an ineffective trade war between the U.S. and China, which spilled over into other disputes between the two countries.
Meanwhile, the Biden Administration has been focused on tough, serious engagement with China since day one – and their hard work is paying off. Whether it’s lowering temperatures to avoid conflict or finding common ground to target international drug traffickers, Biden’s approach has been steady and stable - and working.
Since entering the Oval Office, President Biden has successfully reopened communication channels between our countries’ militaries, secured historic agreements to target fentanyl producers, and drawn clear red lines about intellectual property theft and antagonistic trade behavior.
That’s exactly what Janet Yellen is doing on her trip to China. She is taking our message directly to her counterparts – pressing them on tough issues – and fighting for the American people.
Diplomacy isn’t glamorous – which is probably why Donald Trump doesn’t like it. But engaging in it is exactly how responsible, experienced leaders protect America’s interests.
Nothing has ever been achieved by ignoring our adversaries or refusing to negotiate. Tough talk might sound good on television – but it doesn’t deliver results when the rubber hits the road. A smart and engaged process is the only way to go if you want to achieve real progress on the issues that matter most to the American people.