Summary

As the US heads toward November elections and with Democrat Joe Biden seemingly enjoying an advantage, global speculation is mounting over whether the election will impact US foreign policy. One of the biggest questions pertains to US-China relations. Relations between Washington and Beijing have been deteriorating since Obama’s second term, and this downward tendency accelerated under Trump. With China now regarded as a ‘near-peer competitor,’ one that’s expanding its influence across the globe, responding to its rise will be a priority for the future administration. However, in spite of differences in style, a Biden victory is unlikely to alter the fundamental objectives underpinning Washington’s stance on the PRC.