China’s leadership is assessing how the US midterm election outcome affects its dealings with Washington, with analysts saying Beijing may adjust how much it relies on the personal relationship between Presidents Xi Jinping and Donald Trump. The reports link the reassessment to the idea that Trump is weakened politically after the elections and may have less ability to deliver outcomes.
Across coverage, there is a common theme that Congress’s new role could matter more in future negotiations, even if foreign policy is not solely directed by lawmakers. One account suggests China may focus more on what the White House can accomplish with or without support in Congress, and could even look at ways to engage more effectively with Democrats if they hold greater leverage. Another emphasizes that while a weaker Trump can strengthen China’s bargaining position, Chinese officials also recognize that Congress has limited direct control over foreign policy and still aim to preserve warm personal ties between the two presidents.
