The recent victory of former President Donald Trump in the New Hampshire primary has solidified his standing within the Republican Party, hinting at a possible rematch with President Joe Biden in the upcoming general election. However, the prospect of this unusual rematch raises serious concerns about the already divisive and polarized state of US political life.
In recent years, the political landscape in the US has been marked by deep divisions between Republicans and Democrats, with political competition devolving into personal attacks. The lack of highly qualified candidates for both parties hints at potential flaws in the US political system, casting doubt on the sustainability of political life in the country.
Compounding the issue is the apparent inability of leaders from both parties to unite and cooperate effectively. Bipartisan collaboration has become a distant memory, replaced by a trend towards populism and extreme positions. This situation has led some to characterize the United States as the “disunited states of America”.
The intensifying political division within the country does not bode well for the US, as it may hinder the formulation of wise and far-sighted political solutions to the numerous challenges it faces. Instead of exercising global leadership, the US risks exacerbating global tensions, both domestically and internationally.
A potential victory for Trump in a rematch with Biden raises concerns among US allies. Western countries, including Canada, Japan, and South Korea, express apprehension about the unpredictability and potential challenges associated with a second term for Trump. Many worry about the implications for international relations, including the possible withdrawal of US troops from regions such as South Korea.
Countries like Ukraine, in particular, express concerns about Trump’s potential re-election. While Trump has proposed a swift end to conflicts, such as the war in Ukraine, there is skepticism about the effectiveness and alignment of these proposals with the interests of affected nations.
From China’s perspective, the US election is viewed as a domestic matter, and China emphasizes patience in awaiting the election outcome. Regardless of the president, China advocates for standing firm on principles and building mutual respect. Both nations are urged to establish guardrails, preventing unexpected events that could strain bilateral relations.
The crucial China-US relationship should be normalized, constructive, and mutually beneficial, irrespective of who assumes the presidency. The emphasis is on active engagement, bilateral consultations, and addressing issues peacefully. The call for embracing peace underscores the belief that, regardless of the challenges, peaceful means should be sought for resolving disputes between China and the US.
