Can China make America stronger?
This year marks the 10-year anniversary of China’s ambitious Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), which serves as a testament to the country’s rapidly expanding influence across the globe. The BRI, a strategic plan to invest in 150 out of 195 countries worldwide (representing 75% of the world’s population), aims to solidify China’s global presence. This initiative culminates in 2049, aligning with the centennial celebration of the People’s Republic of China’s founding. China’s impact is increasingly evident…even right here in America.
A March 1st article published in Forbes revealed that China currently possesses over 380,000 acres of agricultural land in the United States. Although several European countries own more American land than China, this significant Chinese ownership highlights their growing influence in American agriculture. Furthermore, as of February 2023, China holds approximately $850 billion of U.S. debt in the form of treasuries, second only to Japan, according to the U.S. Treasury Department. This substantial financial investment solidifies China’s economic leverage and its ability to impact U.S. economic decisions.
China’s presence extends beyond land and financial investments. One prime example is the popular social media platform TikTok, owned by the Chinese company ByteDance. TikTok boasts over 1 billion monthly users, positioning it as the sixth most popular social media site globally, trailing only Facebook, YouTube, WhatsApp, Instagram, and WeChat, as reported by Statista.com. This staggering user base emphasizes China’s growing reach into American social media and the potential influence it holds over our public discourse and information dissemination.
China’s influence goes beyond America’s economic and social spheres, potentially permeating into the inner levels of our Government. In 2020, it was revealed that Democrat Congressman Eric Swalwell (CA) had close ties with Chinese spy, Fang Fang, for several years. We all remember how earlier this year, the Biden Administration allowed Chinese spy balloons to traverse the country, with one floating for several days before shooting it down, but only after it completed its mission. Recent incidents involving Chinese fighter jets and naval ships attempting to provoke a response from our military further underscore China’s audacious behavior. If that isn’t enough, just this week it was reported that a secret Chinese spy base in Cuba has been operating for a couple of years, raising concerns about China’s covert activities near American shores. These instances should raise major questions about the extent of China’s infiltration into American institutions and infrastructure.
On the military front, China’s advancements have revealed that we’ve taken our eye off the ball in terms of military superiority. In 2021, China deployed a hypersonic weapon capable of circumnavigating the globe, prompting a response from our Department of Defense essentially setting off a weapons race. Experts speculate that these weapons possess the capability to deliver a nuclear payload that could potentially surpass America’s defense systems. These alarming developments highlight China’s growing military prowess and the need for us to reassess our national security strategies. But things may not be as bleak as they seem.
As we approach another election cycle, it is evident that our nation is deeply divided, perhaps more so than in many decades. Amid this social and political turbulence, however, hope remains when we engage with the citizens of America. During my US Senate campaign, I had the privilege of traveling to all 159 counties in Georgia and conversing with thousands of individuals from various communities across our state. These conversations revealed a common desire to maintain (or restore) American dominance on the world stage. While many local and some national grievances may persist, the collective consciousness of the citizens of Georgia demonstrates a preference for unity over discord…and strength over passivity. In my opinion, any external threat, such as China or Russia, would only serve to galvanize the spirit of the American people. I honestly think that we’ve been so distracted with social unrest, economic turbulence, and challenges associated with the Chinese leak of the COVID-19 virus, that we’ve been unaware of these major moves by China.
China’s once subtle and covert actions are becoming increasingly conspicuous. This should serve as a wake-up call, urging us to refocus on what truly matters for the world—a strong America. Despite the challenges we face, the desire to overcome these obstacles and restore unity remains steadfast. It is precisely why now still may not be the opportune time for China, Russia, or any other adversary to consider aggressive actions against America. Such actions would only strengthen our resolve, and we would stand united in defending our nation against any risks. As I used to say on the campaign trail, China’s goal is to bring down America without firing a single shot. Although times are undoubtedly difficult, with strained relationships and pressing social issues, the will to rise above and rebuild a robust and united America is alive albeit stagnant.
It’s time for the American people to wake up and pay attention and yes, China’s growing influence in America demands our attention. It is past time to take proactive measures to safeguard our national interests and ensure a prosperous future. By acknowledging this reality, we can refocus our efforts, strengthen our resolve, and work towards building a more resilient and secure America for generations to come. Wake up America.
