New poll: 4 in 10 Americans view China as enemy, highest in five years

About 4 in 10 Americans now label China as an enemy, marking the highest level in five years, according to new research. A Pew Research Center survey published on Wednesday, May 1, revealed the significant shift in Americans’ attitude toward China.

Additionally, only 6% of poll respondents said they consider China a partner. These findings come as the Biden administration aims to stabilize relations with China, emphasizing the importance of avoiding misunderstandings that could lead to conflicts.

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In recent diplomatic efforts, Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen visited China. Those visits were intended to reflect the administration’s commitment to manage competition responsibly. However, President Joe Biden faces the challenge of balancing toughness on issues like Russia’s actions in Ukraine, human rights in China and stability in both regions.

The report also highlights that half of Americans view limiting China’s power and influence as a top foreign policy priority. Attitudes toward China have soured over the years, influenced by factors such as the trade war and the COVID-19 pandemic’s origins in China.

Republicans are more likely than Democrats to view China as an enemy, reflecting partisan divides on the issue. Furthermore, older Americans and those with negative economic outlooks tended to view China more critically, according to the report.

Overall, perceptions of China are intertwined with views on the U.S. economy and China’s global influence, according to a Pew Research Center associate. As the Biden administration navigates efforts to mend and manage the U.S.-China relations, which could remain crucial for international stability.