Trump's second-term administration is indisputable to maintain a steadfast hawkish stance and policy toward China. The cabinet-level appointees have successfully undergone the Senate confirmation process, while several deputy positions of the State and Defense Departments are still in the midst of procedure. By examining the list, it becomes evident that the rhetoric and actions of officials in Trump 2.0 differ distinctly from those in Trump 1.0. Despite of both administrations being characterized by strategic hawks, there are notable distinctions between them. This also implies that Trump 2.0's China policy, building upon the foundation of Trump 1.0, exhibits not only a significant degree of continuity but also substantial discrepancy. Observing and analyzing the US hawkish officials helps provide valuable insights into Trump's future China policy.

According to Dr.Weizhan MENG , author of the article,Trump 1.0 hawks are committed to increasing the likelihood of conflict with China by suppressing it, while Trump 2.0 hawks expect to reduce their conflict using the same approach. Their objectives no longer focus on outright defeating China or transforming its political system, but on sustaining strategic stability with China amidst an ongoing competitive dynamic. Although China-US relation shows no sign of returning to the beginning a decade ago, the future appears considerably more promising than the state during the Cold War era.

Translated by Yifan JIA

Full text in Chinese available at:

https://mp.weixin.qq.com/s/JioClUwHlNNTAuER8nYNbg