Since the Soviet Union collapsed in 1991, the United States has been the leading power in the world. However, that time is coming to an end as a new rivalry has emerged, this time with China. This competition is unique and complicated.
The U.S. and China share a relationship that is both competitive and interdependent. As China grows stronger, it also plays a crucial role in supplying many goods the U.S. relies on, like pharmaceuticals and microchips. This situation is concerning, especially since tensions are rising over Taiwan. If China were to take military action against Taiwan, it could lead to a long and bloody conflict involving the U.S.
In this context, some political figures, particularly neoconservatives, find themselves in a difficult position. They support military action against China if Taiwan is attacked, yet they hesitate to take the necessary steps to boost American manufacturing and reduce reliance on China. J.D. Vance, a prominent political voice, recently pointed out the absurdity of wanting to fight China while depending on it for essential supplies.
Vance’s comments highlight a larger issue that the U.S. has contributed to over the years. China’s rise as a major power began in the late 1990s when U.S. leaders, including President Bill Clinton, pushed for closer trade ties with China. Clinton believed that integrating China into the global economy would promote democracy there. He claimed that this would allow American companies to sell products in China without moving jobs overseas.
Unfortunately, this vision did not materialize. Instead of fully embracing free-market principles, China adopted them selectively. This strategy allowed China to grow economically and militarily while undermining American manufacturing and the middle class.
The current state of U.S. manufacturing and national security is alarming. A recent report from the U.S. Army Science Board expressed serious concerns about the country’s industrial capacity to meet military demands. The ongoing war in Ukraine has further exposed these weaknesses, revealing that the U.S. struggles to produce enough ammunition and military technology.
Moreover, the U.S. Navy is facing challenges as its fleet ages. Reports indicate that less than 68% of surface ships are operational, and American shipyards cannot keep up with the production pace of China, which has significantly more shipbuilding capacity.
In light of these challenges, experts argue that the U.S. needs to rethink its approach. Vance has suggested that the country must prioritize self-reliance and revive its manufacturing sector to ensure a strong middle class. He believes that a robust domestic economy is essential for projecting power abroad.
The Trump administration has made attempts to shift toward economic nationalism, recognizing the need to reduce dependence on China. To secure its future, the U.S. must reclaim its economic independence and strengthen its industrial capabilities.