China

There is no more critical challenge facing the United States than the competition with China. From domestic economic development and military modernization to cyber interference and growing ties with Global South countries, China has risen to a position of strength in the world. Beijing is vying for national power, strategic influence, and diplomatic reputation, as it seeks to replace the United States as the dominant force in the world. Under the increasingly authoritarian leadership of current President Xi Jinping, China has signaled that it is willing to take the steps necessary to weaken the influence of the United States. As a result, China has become a top priority of U.S. foreign policymaking. Presidential administrations from Obama to Trump have sought to ensure that the Communist government under Xi does not replace the United States as a global hegemon, by building the world’s strongest economy and most advanced military or by becoming a benefactor of national development around the world.