Americans' Perceptions of China Show Improvement

<figure> <img alt="Trump and Xi Jinping" src="https://platform.vox.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/09/gettyimages-2296814366.jpg?quality=90&amp;strip=all&amp;crop=0,0,100,100" /> <figcaption> President Donald Trump greets Chinese President Xi Jinping at Joint Base Andrews on September 23, 2026. | Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images </figcaption> </figure> <p class="wp-block-paragraph"><em>This story appeared in Today, Explained, a daily newsletter that helps you understand the most compelling news and stories of the day.</em></p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">President Donald Trump welcomed Chinese President Xi Jinping on September 23, 2026, at Maryland’s Joint Base Andrews with a military band and a jet flyover.</p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">This reception marks a notable change in Trump's approach to Xi, whom he previously referred to as his “enemy.” This shift in tone reflects a broader trend, as Americans have also begun to view China more favorably over the past five years.</p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">During the state visit, the two leaders discussed various topics, including an agreement to extend the pause in their trade conflict. However, issues such as technology restrictions and access to critical minerals remain unresolved.</p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">AI safety advocates are hoping for an agreement on AI development between the two leaders, following calls from American tech executives. Several executives are expected to attend a state dinner at the White House, although the likelihood of a significant AI agreement appears low.</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Public Opinion on China</h2> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">Recent polls indicate that American sentiment towards China has improved, particularly among younger demographics. On average, views on China are similar to those from ten years ago, prior to the onset of Trump's first trade war.</p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">Several factors may have contributed to this change in perception. Trump's altered rhetoric, which no longer frames the US-China relationship as an existential rivalry, may play a role. Additionally, public sentiment has gradually shifted since the Covid-19 pandemic, as concerns about that period diminish.</p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">Culturally, younger Americans are reportedly more open to coexistence with China, influenced by aspects of Chinese culture such as social media platforms. Some also perceive that Western-style capitalism has not met their expectations.</p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">Despite these positive shifts in perception, challenges remain for China, including an economic slowdown, demographic issues, and political repression.</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Additional Information</h2> <p class="wp-block-paragraph"><strong> Health Advisory:</strong> Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and others have raised concerns about ultra-processed foods. It is advised to check nutrition labels to determine the healthiness of food items.</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Trivia</h2> <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li><strong>Did you know…</strong> Joseph Smith, the founder of the Mormon church, was an outspoken abolitionist and proposed buying the freedom of enslaved individuals during a presidential run.</li> <li><strong>Today’s trivia:</strong> What is the term for the lowest female singing voice? (Hint: It is also used in the names of several instruments.)</li> <li><strong>Yesterday’s trivia:</strong> The stage name of American rapper Adam Yauch is MCA, a founding member of the Beastie Boys.</li> </ul>