By ggablog 
The US presidential election’s outcome could significantly impact the complex relationship between the US and China, but many in China believe the tensions will persist regardless of the winner.
“Whoever becomes the US president, it’s all the same to us ordinary Chinese,” said Beijing resident Li Shuo. This sentiment reflects a widespread belief that any US administration will seek to limit China’s global rise, whether Vice President Kamala Harris or former President Donald Trump wins.
Trump’s previous term saw tariffs imposed on Chinese goods, a crackdown on Huawei, and inflammatory language regarding COVID-19. Under President Joe Biden, the US has maintained a focus on China’s perceived national security threat, implementing investment restrictions and expressing support for Taiwan, which Beijing claims as its own.
Chinese citizens are experiencing economic struggles, and interest in the US elections seems muted compared to previous cycles. A popular comment on Weibo sums it up: “(It) doesn’t matter who wins; their containment of China won’t ease.”
State media in China has highlighted social discord and polarization in the US during the election campaigns. Posts discussing fears of potential post-election violence and criticisms of political turmoil have circulated widely, painting a picture of chaos.
Despite negative portrayals, many in China have noted the democratic process in the US, contrasting it with their own political system. Both Harris and Trump have sparked discussions on Chinese social media, with Harris being mocked and Trump occasionally admired for his isolationist policies.
Wu Xinbo, director of the Center for American Studies at Shanghai’s Fudan University, noted that public interest in this election appears lower than in previous ones due to the belief that US-China relations will remain strained regardless of the winner.
Experts predict that continuity in US policy towards China will likely prevail, regardless of whether Harris or Trump wins. While Trump might introduce more uncertainty and risk, Harris is expected to continue a similar path to Biden, balancing pressure on China with attempts to maintain dialogue. Ultimately, the nature of the US-China relationship will depend on who takes office.