More Than Half of Americans Say U.S. Is Not Tough Enough on China

The majority of Americans say the United States is not tough enough when it comes to China’s growing economic dominance.

In a new poll by Rasmussen Reports, 51 percent of likely voters said the U.S. government ignores abuses by the Chinese government. The likely voters say the weakness towards China is because of the country’s economic power, noting that the U.S. would not tolerate the same behavior from other countries.

Swing voters are the most likely, with 53 percent, to say the U.S. is too soft on China and should get tougher. Another 50 percent of Republican voters say the same, while 51 percent of Democrats agree.

The poll is welcome news for President Donald Trump’s administration which is seeking harsh tariffs against China, including $50 billion worth of tariffs and restrictions on Chinese exports to the U.S. and investments.

This month, Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer reportedly showed Trump a “package of tariffs” to impose upon the Chinese government, but the populist president wanted the tariffs to be even steeper.

Polling from last month also showed widespread support for Trump to take action against China.

About 59 percent of Americans say it is “important” that President Trump place tariffs on imported steel and aluminum, specifically from the Chinese government.