Raimondo Criticizes "Anti-China Euphoria," Advocates for Dialogue Amidst Political Tensions

Gina Raimondo, former US Secretary of Commerce, attended a hearing of the US Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation on April 27, 2022, focusing on the Department of Commerce's Fiscal Year 2023 Budget Priorities.

Raimondo recently expressed concerns about an "anti-China euphoria" in the United States. She recounted criticism she faced for being perceived as too lenient towards China, specifically regarding her visit to the country. While acknowledging the Republican view of China as the "greatest threat," she cautioned against complete decoupling, warning that it could lead to dangerous escalation. These remarks were made at the 2025 KPMG Tech and Innovation Symposium on August 12.

During her visit to China in August 2023, Raimondo became the first US Commerce Secretary to visit in seven years. Upon her return, she faced criticism from Republican lawmakers. In an interview at the KPMG event, she noted that she was criticized for being "soft on China," particularly for visiting Shanghai Disneyland and meeting with its CEO. She refuted the criticism, stating that an amusement park does not threaten national security and that meeting with CEOs was part of her job as Commerce Secretary.

Li Haidong, a professor at China Foreign Affairs University, observed that the constant criticism of US politicians from both parties for being "soft toward China" reflects an unhealthy trend in the US's understanding of the country. He noted that both Democrats and Republicans tend to adopt hardline stances on China, with the opposition often pushing for even tougher measures to undermine the ruling party's policies. This is driven by political motivations, with the goal of discrediting the opposing party.

Li further stated that the current political climate in the US prioritizes elections, power, and positions over addressing real issues objectively. This has resulted in inconsistencies and internal friction in the US's approach to China and other significant matters.

At the KPMG Symposium, Raimondo stated that "trying to hold back China is a fool's errand," suggesting that the US should focus on its own advancements. When asked about the US's position in the AI race against China, she responded that the US is ahead, but only barely. She advocated for continued trade and communication with China, warning that a lack of communication could lead to escalation and miscalculation.

Li Haidong noted that Raimondo's perspectives are relatively balanced and rational compared to some China hawks, as she is less constrained by the domestic political climate. He also pointed out that politicians often align their remarks with "anti-China political correctness" while in office, but speak and act more rationally after leaving their positions.