China’s Role in Kamala Harris's Foreign Policy: What We Still Don’t Know

China’s Implications for Harris’s Foreign Policy

Kamala Harris's silence on China during her acceptance speech drew attention from both supporters and critics. Despite bipartisan agreement on China's threat, her lack of specific policies raises alarms regarding her future directives, especially in contrast with her positions on India and traditional allies.

Insights on Harris's Experience and Advisors

Strikingly, Harris has never visited China, unlike her running mate, Tim Walz. His background offers a unique perspective that Republicans now leverage against him as a perceived vulnerability. Harris’s foreign policy approach appears uncertain, largely influenced by her advisor, Phil Gordon—who has expressed skepticism about US-China decoupling.

Potential Divergences between Harris and Biden

• Unexpected Engagement with Autocrats: If Harris adopts an Obama-like approach, expect possible outreach to leaders like Xi Jinping.
• Domestic Politics Influence: The growing bipartisan hawkishness towards China complicates Harris's potential willingness to engage.
• Legacy of the Pivot: Drawing from the Obama era can shape her foreign strategy towards a more adaptable stance on international relations.

Looking Ahead: Harris's Stance on China

As the political climate surrounding China evolves, voters and allies alike will closely monitor how Harris translates these unknowns into her leadership style. Understanding her nuanced intentions will be crucial for both domestic discussions and international strategies.