Trump signals hard line on China with hawkish cabinet picks
US President-elect Donald Trump is filling his incoming administration with figures known for their hawkish views on China, signalling a tough line on Beijing in areas ranging from national security to trade.
On Tuesday, Trump nominated John Ratcliffe, the former Director of National Intelligence, to lead the CIA, while Pete Hegseth, a FOX News host and army veteran, was chosen for secretary of defense, and Congressman Michael Waltz of Florida for national security adviser.
Additionally, Elise Stefanik, a New York House representative, was selected as Trump’s nominee for United Nations ambassador on Monday. There is also speculation that Florida Senator Marco Rubio, known for his strong stance on China, may be chosen as secretary of state.
These appointments suggest Trump’s administration will pursue a tough approach, viewing US-China relations as a high-stakes power rivalry.
Trump also appointed Tesla and SpaceX CEO Elon Musk, along with entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy, to lead a newly proposed 'Department of Government Efficiency.' Musk, who has significant business ties in China, is one of the few appointees with a relatively favorable perspective on Beijing.
Other potential candidates with hawkish views on China include former Ambassador to Germany Richard Grenell, Tennessee Senator Bill Hagerty, and former US Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer. According to The Wall Street Journal, Trump plans to name Lighthizer, who was a key figure in the trade conflict with China during Trump’s first term, as his 'trade czar.' Lighthizer played a major role in implementing tariffs on $380 billion of Chinese imports.
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