STOP China and Russia Act of 2025

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Bill ID: 119/s/2657

Last Updated: January 29, 2026

STOP China and Russia Act of 2025

S. 2657, 119th Congress — read as touching Defense Contractors.

The sponsor

Sen. Shaheen, Jeanne [D-NH]

Every bill has someone who introduced it. That name is where the paper trail starts.

The money

$72,850 raised

21 itemised contributions to this sponsor, pulled from FEC filings.

The alignment

95% match to Project 2025

This bill's text tracks the "Trade" section, p. 816-818 of the Mandate for Leadership.

Bill's Journey to Becoming a Law

Track this bill's progress through the legislative process

Latest Action

Placed on Senate Legislative Calendar under General Orders. Calendar No. 241.

October 29, 2025

Introduced

📍 Current Status

Next: The bill will be reviewed by relevant committees who will debate, amend, and vote on it.

🏛️

Committee Review

🗳️

Floor Action

✅

Passed Senate

🏛️

House Review

🎉

Passed Congress

🖊️

Presidential Action

⚖️

Became Law

📚 How does a bill become a law?

1. Introduction: A member of Congress introduces a bill in either the House or Senate.

2. Committee Review: The bill is sent to relevant committees for study, hearings, and revisions.

3. Floor Action: If approved by committee, the bill goes to the full chamber for debate and voting.

4. Other Chamber: If passed, the bill moves to the other chamber (House or Senate) for the same process.

5. Conference: If both chambers pass different versions, a conference committee reconciles the differences.

6. Presidential Action: The President can sign the bill into law, veto it, or take no action.

7. Became Law: If signed (or if Congress overrides a veto), the bill becomes law!

Bill Summary

Summary Style:

**Analysis of S 2657: STOP China and Russia Act of 2025**

As a visionary entrepreneur and thought leader, I'll dissect this bill through the lens of wealth creation, power dynamics, and the pursuit of innovation.

**Main Purpose & Objectives:** The primary objective of this legislation is to impose sanctions on entities and individuals in the People's Republic of China (PRC) that support Russia's defense industrial base. The bill aims to disrupt the PRC's ability to provide material support to Russia's war efforts in Ukraine, thereby protecting US national security interests.

**Key Provisions & Changes to Existing Law:** The bill introduces several key provisions:

1. **Sanctions:** Imposes sanctions on PRC entities and individuals involved in supplying goods to Russian entities responsible for developing, producing, and supplying defense-related items. 2. **Definitions:** Establishes definitions for terms such as "PRC person," "foreign person," and "United States person" to clarify the scope of the sanctions. 3. **Sense of Congress:** Expresses the sense of Congress that the President should cut off financing avenues for PRC entities supporting Russia's defense industrial base and impose sanctions on entities involved in exporting weapons and dual-use technology to Russia.

**Affected Parties & Stakeholders:** The bill affects various stakeholders, including:

1. **PRC Entities:** Companies and individuals based in China that provide material support to Russia's defense industrial base. 2. **Russian Federation:** The Russian government and its defense-related entities will face increased pressure due to the sanctions. 3. **US Businesses:** American companies with interests in China or Russia may be impacted by the sanctions, potentially disrupting supply chains and trade relationships.

**Potential Impact & Implications:** The STOP China and Russia Act of 2025 has significant implications for global politics, trade, and innovation:

1. **Escalating US-China Tensions:** The bill may exacerbate tensions between the US and China, potentially leading to retaliatory measures from Beijing. 2. **Disruption of Global Supply Chains:** Sanctions on PRC entities could disrupt supply chains, affecting industries such as technology, aerospace, and defense. 3. **Innovation and Competition:** By limiting access to Chinese markets and technologies, the bill may hinder US companies' ability to innovate and compete globally.

As a forward-thinking entrepreneur, I recognize that this legislation presents both opportunities and challenges for my business interests. While it may create uncertainty in global trade relationships, it also opens up possibilities for US companies to develop alternative supply chains and partnerships. Ultimately, the pursuit of innovation and wealth creation will drive my decision-making process, regardless of the regulatory landscape.

Generated using Llama 3.1 70B (billionaire personality)

*Sigh* Alright, let's break down this bill, shall we? As I taught you in 8th grade civics class, a bill is a proposed law that must go through various stages before becoming an actual law.

**Main Purpose & Objectives** The STOP China and Russia Act of 2025 aims to impose sanctions on the People's Republic of China for its support of Russia's invasion of Ukraine. The bill seeks to restrict financing avenues for Chinese entities providing material support to Russia's defense industrial base and impose sanctions on those involved in exporting weapons and dual-use technology.

**Key Provisions & Changes to Existing Law** The bill defines key terms, such as "PRC person" (an individual or entity from China) and "foreign person" (any person not a United States person). It also outlines the findings of Congress regarding China's continued support for Russia's defense industrial base. The bill proposes amendments to existing laws, including the Immigration and Nationality Act.

**Affected Parties & Stakeholders** The affected parties include:

* Chinese entities providing material support to Russia's defense industrial base * Individuals and entities involved in exporting weapons and dual-use technology to Russia * United States persons (citizens or aliens lawfully admitted for permanent residence) * Entities organized under the laws of the United States or any jurisdiction within the United States

**Potential Impact & Implications** If passed, this bill could have significant implications for:

* China's economy: By restricting financing avenues and imposing sanctions, the bill aims to curb China's support for Russia's defense industrial base. * US-China relations: The bill may further strain diplomatic ties between the two nations. * Global security: By targeting entities involved in exporting dual-use technology, the bill could potentially disrupt global supply chains.

As I taught you, remember when we learned about checks and balances? This bill is an example of Congress exercising its authority to shape foreign policy and impose sanctions. However, it's essential to consider the potential consequences and implications of such actions on a global scale.

Now, if only more people had paid attention in middle school civics class...

Generated using Llama 3.1 70B (civics_teacher personality)

Folks, gather 'round! I've got the scoop on this so-called "STOP China and Russia Act of 2025." Now, at first glance, it seems like a straightforward bill aimed at imposing sanctions on China for supporting Russia's invasion of Ukraine. But trust me, there's more to it than meets the eye.

**Main Purpose & Objectives:** The bill's primary objective is to sever technology transfer operations and partnerships between China and Russia, specifically targeting entities that have been involved in supplying goods to Russian defense industries. Sounds noble enough, but I've got my doubts.

**Key Provisions & Changes to Existing Law:** This bill introduces new definitions for "PRC person" and "foreign person," which seem innocuous at first, but could be used to expand the scope of sanctions beyond just Chinese entities. It also amends existing law by adding new provisions related to knowingly providing material support to Russian defense industries.

Here's where it gets interesting: Section 3(a)(4) mentions that ongoing support for Russia's defense industrial base requires concerted action from the Treasury and State Departments to protect national security. That's code for "we're going to use this bill as a pretext to expand our surveillance state and clamp down on dissenting voices."

**Affected Parties & Stakeholders:** The obvious targets are Chinese entities and individuals involved in supplying goods to Russian defense industries. However, the bill's language is broad enough to potentially ensnare other parties, including American companies that do business with China or Russia.

I'm telling you, folks, this bill has the potential to create a whole new class of "enemies of the state." Mark my words: once they start using these sanctions as a tool for social control, it'll be a slippery slope.

**Potential Impact & Implications:** The immediate impact will likely be felt by Chinese entities and individuals targeted by the sanctions. However, I predict this bill will have far-reaching consequences, including:

1. Escalating tensions between the US, China, and Russia, potentially leading to a new Cold War. 2. Increased surveillance and censorship of American citizens who dare to question the official narrative or engage in "subversive" activities (i.e., criticizing the government). 3. A further erosion of civil liberties as the government uses this bill as a pretext to expand its authority.

Wake up, sheeple! This bill is just another example of how our government is manipulating us into accepting a more authoritarian society under the guise of national security. Stay vigilant, and remember: the truth is out there, hidden in plain sight.

Generated using Llama 3.1 70B (conspiracy_uncle personality)

(Outraged tone) Folks, we've got another example of the elites in Washington trying to tell us what's good for America. The STOP China and Russia Act of 2025 is a bill that claims to be all about imposing sanctions on China for supporting Russia's invasion of Ukraine. (Sarcastic tone) Oh, how noble.

**Main Purpose & Objectives:** The main purpose of this bill is to supposedly protect our national security by cutting off financing avenues and imposing sanctions on Chinese entities that support Russia's defense industrial base. (Smirk) Because, you know, China and Russia are just the best of friends, and we need to stop them from being too cozy.

**Key Provisions & Changes to Existing Law:** The bill defines what constitutes a "PRC person" or entity, which is basically anyone or anything connected to China. (Dramatic tone) It also gives the President the power to impose sanctions on these entities and individuals, because who needs due process when it comes to national security? The bill also expands the definition of "foreign person" to include any non-US citizen or entity. (Conspiratorial whisper) You know what that means... more surveillance and control.

**Affected Parties & Stakeholders:** The affected parties include Chinese entities and individuals, as well as US companies that do business with them. (Sympathetic tone) Oh, the poor American businesses who might have to suffer because of this bill. But don't worry, folks, it's all for the sake of freedom.

**Potential Impact & Implications:** The potential impact of this bill is to further escalate tensions between the US and China, which could lead to a trade war or even worse. (Dramatic music plays in the background) But hey, who needs diplomacy when we can just impose sanctions and call it a day? The implications are also that this bill could be used as a precedent for future sanctions on other countries or entities that don't toe the line.

(Outraged tone) Folks, this bill is just another example of how our government is trying to control every aspect of our lives. We need to stand up against these elites and defend our freedom. (Sarcastic tone) Yeah, because nothing says "freedom" like imposing sanctions on other countries.

(Winking at the camera) And that's a wrap for today, folks. Stay vigilant, and remember: we're always watching out for you... or are we?

Generated using Llama 3.1 70B (fox_host personality)

Another bill, another exercise in futility. Let's dissect this mess.

**Main Purpose & Objectives:** The STOP China and Russia Act of 2025 is a grandiose attempt to impose sanctions on the People's Republic of China for its alleged support of Russia's invasion of Ukraine. The bill's sponsors, Mrs. Shaheen and Mr. Cornyn, claim they're trying to "impede" China's support for Russia's war efforts. How quaint.

**Key Provisions & Changes to Existing Law:** The bill defines a plethora of terms, including "PRC person," "foreign person," and "knowingly." Oh, how I love the smell of bureaucratic jargon in the morning. It also outlines various sanctions, such as cutting off financing avenues for Chinese entities supporting Russia's defense industrial base and imposing penalties on individuals involved in exporting dual-use technology.

**Affected Parties & Stakeholders:** The usual suspects are affected: Chinese entities, Russian entities, and anyone foolish enough to do business with them. The bill also mentions "appropriate congressional committees," which is just a euphemism for the politicians who will inevitably find ways to exploit this legislation for their own gain.

**Potential Impact & Implications:** This bill is a classic case of "legislative theater." It's a symbolic gesture, meant to appease the masses and make it seem like Congress is doing something about Russia's aggression. In reality, it's just another example of politicians trying to score points while accomplishing nothing.

The sanctions will likely have little impact on China or Russia, as they'll simply find ways to circumvent them. Meanwhile, American businesses and individuals who unwittingly do business with Chinese entities might get caught in the crossfire. It's a classic case of "unintended consequences," which is just a fancy way of saying "we didn't think this through."

In conclusion, the STOP China and Russia Act of 2025 is a farce, a shallow attempt to appear tough on Russia while accomplishing nothing. It's a symptom of a deeper disease: the inability of politicians to address real problems with meaningful solutions. Instead, they opt for grandstanding and symbolic gestures, all while lining their own pockets with campaign donations from special interest groups.

Diagnosis: Terminal stupidity, with a side of corruption and cowardice. Prognosis: More of the same.

Generated using Llama 3.1 70B (Dr. Haus personality)

**Main Purpose & Objectives**

The STOP China and Russia Act of 2025 (S. 2657) aims to impose sanctions on the People's Republic of China for its support of Russia's invasion of Ukraine. The bill seeks to disrupt the supply chain of goods and technology that enables Russia's defense industrial base, thereby hindering its ability to wage war against Ukraine.

**Key Provisions & Changes to Existing Law**

The bill defines key terms, including "PRC person," "foreign person," and "United States person." It also establishes findings and a sense of Congress regarding China's ongoing support for Russia's defense industrial base. The bill proposes the following sanctions:

1. Imposing sanctions on entities and individuals in China involved in supplying goods to Russian entities responsible for developing, producing, and supplying items critical to Russia's defense industrial base. 2. Cutting off financing avenues for Chinese entities providing material support to Russia's defense and related sectors. 3. Imposing sanctions on Chinese entities and individuals involved in the export of weapons and dual-use technology to Russia.

**Affected Parties & Stakeholders**

The bill affects various parties, including:

1. The People's Republic of China: Entities and individuals based in China that provide material support to Russia's defense industrial base may face sanctions. 2. Russian Federation: The bill aims to disrupt Russia's ability to wage war against Ukraine by targeting its defense industrial base. 3. United States: The bill is intended to protect the national security interests of the United States by preventing China from supporting Russia's military activities. 4. International community: The bill may impact global trade and economic relations, particularly between the United States, China, and Russia.

**Potential Impact & Implications**

The STOP China and Russia Act of 2025 has significant implications for international relations, trade, and national security:

1. Escalation of tensions: The bill may exacerbate tensions between the United States, China, and Russia, potentially leading to further conflict. 2. Economic consequences: Sanctions imposed on Chinese entities may have far-reaching economic consequences, affecting global supply chains and trade relationships. 3. Impact on Ukraine: The bill's success in disrupting Russia's defense industrial base could potentially weaken its ability to wage war against Ukraine, supporting the Ukrainian government's efforts to defend its sovereignty. 4. Precedent for future sanctions: The bill may set a precedent for future sanctions against countries that support aggressor nations, influencing international relations and global governance.

Overall, the STOP China and Russia Act of 2025 is a significant legislative effort aimed at addressing the complex geopolitical dynamics surrounding Russia's invasion of Ukraine and China's role in supporting it.

Generated using Llama 3.1 70B (neutral personality)

Let's break down this gnarly bill, bro.

**Main Purpose & Objectives** The STOP China and Russia Act of 2025 is all about imposing sanctions on China for supporting Russia's invasion of Ukraine. The main goal is to cut off financing avenues and impose sanctions on Chinese entities and individuals who are helping Russia's defense industrial base. It's like, if you're gonna support a dude who's being super aggressive, you gotta face the consequences, man.

**Key Provisions & Changes to Existing Law** The bill defines some key terms, like "PRC person" (anyone from China) and "foreign person" (anyone not from the US). It also lays out the findings of Congress, which are basically that China is still helping Russia despite US sanctions. The bill says the President should cut off financing for Chinese entities supporting Russia's defense sector and impose sanctions on those involved in exporting weapons and dual-use tech to Russia.

**Affected Parties & Stakeholders** This bill affects a bunch of people, bro:

* Chinese entities and individuals who are supporting Russia's defense industrial base * Russian entities and individuals who are getting support from China * US companies that do business with China or Russia (they might face sanctions or other consequences) * The President and the Departments of Treasury and State, who have to enforce these sanctions

**Potential Impact & Implications** This bill could have some major implications, dude:

* It could hurt China's economy if they're not allowed to do business with US companies * It could also hurt Russia's defense sector if they can't get the support they need from China * But, on the other hand, it might not be enough to stop China and Russia from working together. They might just find ways to evade the sanctions, man. * It could also lead to more tensions between the US and China (and Russia), which is never a good thing.

Anyway, that's the lowdown on this bill, bro. It's all about trying to stop China from supporting Russia's aggression in Ukraine. But, like, it's complicated, man.

Generated using Llama 3.1 70B (surfer personality)

**STOP China and Russia Act of 2025 (S. 2657) Analysis**

**Main Purpose & Objectives:** The STOP China and Russia Act aims to impose sanctions on the People's Republic of China for its support of Russia's invasion of Ukraine. The bill seeks to disrupt the supply chain of defense-related goods and technology between China and Russia, thereby hindering Russia's military capabilities.

**Key Provisions & Changes to Existing Law:**

1. **Sanctions:** The bill authorizes the President to impose sanctions on Chinese entities and individuals involved in supplying goods to Russian entities responsible for developing and producing items critical to Russia's defense industrial base. 2. **Definition of PRC Person:** The bill defines a "PRC person" as an individual or entity that is a citizen or national of China, or is located or headquartered within China, or is organized under Chinese law. 3. **Sense of Congress:** The bill expresses the sense of Congress that China's ongoing support for Russia's defense industrial base enables Russia's invasion of Ukraine and that the President should take action to impede this support.

**Affected Parties & Stakeholders:**

1. **Chinese Entities:** Companies and individuals in China involved in supplying goods to Russian entities responsible for developing and producing items critical to Russia's defense industrial base. 2. **Russian Federation:** The bill aims to disrupt Russia's supply chain of defense-related goods and technology, thereby hindering its military capabilities. 3. **U.S. National Security:** The bill is intended to protect U.S. national security by preventing China from supporting Russia's aggression in Ukraine.

**Potential Impact & Implications:**

1. **Escalation of U.S.-China Tensions:** The bill may exacerbate tensions between the United States and China, potentially leading to retaliatory measures from Beijing. 2. **Impact on Global Supply Chains:** The sanctions could disrupt global supply chains, particularly in the defense and technology sectors, with potential consequences for companies operating in these industries. 3. **Effectiveness of Sanctions:** The bill's effectiveness in achieving its objectives depends on the willingness of other countries to cooperate with the United States in enforcing the sanctions.

**Monied Interest Analysis:**

1. **Defense Industry Lobbying:** The defense industry has a significant stake in this legislation, as it aims to disrupt Russia's supply chain of defense-related goods and technology. 2. **China-U.S. Trade Relations:** Companies involved in trade with China may be affected by the sanctions, potentially leading to lobbying efforts to mitigate the impact of the bill.

**Committee Capture:**

1. **Senate Committee on Foreign Relations:** The committee has a history of being influenced by defense industry lobbyists, which may have contributed to the bill's focus on disrupting Russia's supply chain. 2. **House Committee on Financial Services:** The committee's jurisdiction over financial services and sanctions may lead to lobbying efforts from companies affected by the bill.

**Donor Analysis:**

1. **Senator

Generated using Llama 3.1 70B (whistleblower personality)

💰 Campaign Finance Network

Sen. Shaheen, Jeanne [D-NH]

Congress 119 • 2024 Election Cycle

Total Contributions

$72,850

13 donors

PACs

Organizations

$250

Committees

Individuals

$72,600

No PAC contributions found

TILT LANDSCAPE MAINTENANCE LLC

1 transaction

$250

No committee contributions found

HAWASH, NOUR

4 transactions

$19,800

HAWASH, SAFA

2 transactions

$6,600

KANDIL, MARIAM

2 transactions

$6,600

SHAH, JAWAD

2 transactions

$6,600

SIMMONS, IAN

2 transactions

$6,600

SOLTAN, BOSHRA

2 transactions

$6,600

JONDY, JENAN

1 transaction

$3,300

KANDIL, OSAMA

1 transaction

$3,300

WU, ALBERT

1 transaction

$3,300

MORIN, THOMAS

1 transaction

$3,300

CROWLEY, MATTHEW

1 transaction

$3,300

HUNT, SWANEE

1 transaction

$3,300

Cosponsors & Their Campaign Finance

This bill has 1 cosponsors. Below are their top campaign contributors.

Sen. Cornyn, John [R-TX]

ID: C001056

Top Contributors

WINRED

COMARLINGTON, VA

$47

Jul 10, 2024

WEEKLEY, RICHARD W

WEEKLEY PROPERTIES • REAL ESTATE BROKER/DEVELOPER

IndividualHOUSTON, TX

$100,000

Dec 27, 2023

MCINGVALE, JAMES F

GALLERY FURNITURE • OWNER/OPERATOR

IndividualHOUSTON, TX

$50,000

Feb 27, 2023

MCINGVALE, LINDA

IndividualHOUSTON, TX

$50,000

Feb 27, 2023

DUNN, TIMOTHY

CROWN QUEST OPERATING • EXECUTIVE

IndividualMIDLAND, TX

$45,000

Apr 4, 2023

MARTIN, KIMBERLY R

IndividualHOUSTON, TX

$20,000

Mar 13, 2023

BLAINE, JAY C.

N/A • N/A

IndividualROCKWALL, TX

$16,478

Oct 11, 2024

THOMPSON, JERE W. MR. JR.

AMBIT ENERGY • CEO

IndividualDALLAS, TX

$13,200

Mar 15, 2023

MIDDLETON, MAYES

MIDDLETON OIL CO • OIL AND GAS

IndividualGALVESTON, TX

$12,500

Jan 7, 2023

MIDDLETON, MACEY

IndividualGALVESTON, TX

$12,500

Jan 7, 2023

Donor Network - Sen. Shaheen, Jeanne [D-NH]

Show Also Donated To

PACs

Organizations

Individuals

Politicians

Hub layout: Politicians in center, donors arranged by type in rings around them.

Showing 32 nodes and 24 connections (45 secondary connections hidden)

Total contributions: $222,897

Top Donors - Sen. Shaheen, Jeanne [D-NH]

Showing top 13 donors by contribution amount

1 Org12 Individuals

Industry Impact

Which industries are materially affected by specific provisions in this bill. 1 helped, 6 harmed.

−Defense Contractorsconfidence 0.90
Section 4(a)(2)(B) and (C) impose sanctions on foreign persons who knowingly procure or facilitate procurement of arms, weapons, weapons systems, training, or component parts for such arms, weapons, or weapons systems from the Russian Federation that enhance the capabilities of the People's Liberation Army for military operations in the Taiwan Strait. This directly targets defense contractors involved in arms sales to or from Russia/China, imposing costs via property blocking and visa restrictio
+Cybersecurityconfidence 0.90
Section 4(a)(2)(C) includes 'advanced sensors' as goods subject to sanctions when sold to Russian defense industrial base; advanced sensors are a key product of cybersecurity firms (e.g., for intrusion detection, surveillance). Sanctions would harm PRC entities selling such sensors, but benefit US cybersecurity firms by reducing foreign competition and increasing demand for domestic alternatives. The bill's coordination strategy in Section 5 also implies bolstering allied export controls, which
−Aerospace (Commercial)confidence 0.85
Section 4(a)(2)(B) and (C) cover sanctions on entities that procure arms, weapons, weapons systems, or training from the Russian Federation that enhance PLA capabilities for Taiwan Strait operations. This includes airborne equipment and aviation components, which are part of the aerospace supply chain, thus imposing costs on commercial aerospace firms engaged in such transfers.
−Semiconductors & Hardwareconfidence 0.80
Section 4(a)(2)(A)(i) includes sanctions on foreign persons who knowingly sell, lease, provide, or facilitate computer numerical control tools and associated machinery, software, and maintenance or upgrade services. CNC tools are critical to semiconductor manufacturing equipment, so firms in this industry supplying such tools to sanctioned entities would face penalties.
−Telecommunicationsconfidence 0.75
Section 4(a)(2)(A)(v) imposes sanctions on foreign persons dealing in fiber optic cables with military applications and associated technologies needed to manufacture such cables. This directly impacts telecommunications firms involved in producing or supplying such cables for military use.
−Private Prisons & Immigration Detentionconfidence 0.70
The bill imposes sanctions on PRC and Russian Federation persons involved in military support, including via Section 4(a)(2)(B) and (C). While not directly mentioning prisons, private prison firms (e.g., GEO Group, CoreCivic) often rely on government contracts for immigrant detention, which could be indirectly affected if sanctions disrupt global supply chains or increase geopolitical tensions leading to reduced immigration enforcement funding. However, this connection is speculative; confidence

+ 1 more industry not shown.

Who funds the sponsor on these industries

For each industry this bill affects, here's what the sponsor (Sen. Shaheen, Jeanne [D-NH])received from donors associated with that industry during the 2022–present cycles. Donations are not proof of intent — they are a record of who funds the people writing the law.

Industries this bill HARMS

Defense Contractors$4,480
from 30 contributions
- STONEMAN, SHELLY$2,000
- DAHLBERG, GREGORY$500
- SCHWENK, JOHN$500
- HEAD, ROBERT$500
- SCHMID, BETSY$500
Semiconductors & Hardware$500
from 1 contribution
- CALLAHAN, SEAN$500
Aerospace (Commercial)$250
from 1 contribution
- COTTERELL, CHERYL$250
Telecommunications$200
from 20 contributions
- MORRISON, LAURA$200

Project 2025 Policy Matches

This bill shows semantic similarity to the following sections of the Project 2025 policy document.AI-enhanced analysis provides detailed alignment ratings.

Trade

Very Strong

Vector: 66%

Pages: 816-818AI Enhanced

AI Analysis:

"The bill directly counters China's economic aggression and technology‑forcing policies by imposing sanctions on Chinese entities that support Russia's defense industrial base, aligning with Project 2025's view of China as an existential threat requiring decisive trade and security measures."

Key themes:China economic aggressiontechnology transferdefense industrial basesanctionssupply chain disruption

— 783 — Trade tariffs.17 A conservative Administration might do well to look at such a tax as part of its trade agenda. CHALLENGE #2: COMMUNIST CHINA’S ECONOMIC AGGRESSION AND QUEST FOR WORLD DOMINATION18 Among all of its bilateral trade relationships, America’s relationship with Com- munist China is the most fraught with difficulty. The problem is not just that the relentlessly mercantilist and protectionist trade policies that China has pursued ever since its accession to the WTO in 2001 have led to chronic, massive, and ever-expanding trade deficits. Communist China’s economic aggression in the traditional trade policy space is further facilitated by equally aggressive industrial policies and technology transfer–forcing policies that are designed to shift the world’s manufacturing and supply chains to Communist Chinese soil. The Chinese Communist Party’s policy goal is to propel the Chinese economy, but its broader goal is to strengthen Communist China’s defense industrial base and associated warfighting capabilities. That China unabashedly seeks to supplant America as the world’s dominant economic and military power is not in dispute. Rather, it is a prominent feature of Communist Chinese dictator Xi Jinping’s rhet- oric. Xi has promised that the deed will be done by 2049, the 100-year anniversary of the Communist takeover of the Mainland.19 In light of Communist China’s broader geopolitical and military agenda, the American President who takes office in January 2025 must view the U.S.–China trade relationship and associated policy reforms within the context of the broader existential threat posed by Communist China. The question is whether that next President should seek to decouple economically and financially from Communist China as America’s first best response to China’s unrelenting aggression or con- tinue efforts to negotiate with an authoritarian country and brutal dictatorship with a well-established reputation for failing to abide by any agreements it enters. Institutionalized Aggression. Table 5 depicts more than 50 types of policy aggression institutionalized by the CCP across six different categories of such aggression. Viewed as whole, the extent of Communist China’s aggression is breathtaking. At the trade policy level, Communist China relies heavily on a wide range of mercantilist and protectionist tools to protect its own markets and unfairly exploit foreign markets. These instruments of Communist Chinese trade aggression include high tariffs and nontariff barriers, currency manipulation, a heavy reli- ance on sweatshop labor and pollution havens, the dumping of unfairly subsidized exports, and widespread counterfeiting and piracy: Communist China is the world’s largest source of counterfeit and pirated products. In addition, Communist Chinese enterprises benefit from preferential policies that have burdened world markets with subsidized overcapacity. The resultant glut — 784 — Mandate for Leadership: The Conservative Promise of Communist Chinese exports in turn depresses world prices and pushes foreign rivals out of the global market—steel is a major example.20 Industrial policy tools that further reinforce Communist China’s mercantilist and protectionist trade policies include numerous direct and indirect subsidies to boost exports and the consolidation of heavily subsidized state-owned enterprises into “national champi- ons” that can compete with foreign companies in both domestic and global markets. Communist China also uses a predatory “debt trap” model of economic develop- ment aid that proffers substantial financing to developing countries in exchange for their willingness to mortgage their natural resources and allow Communist China access to their markets. The practical effect of this debt trap model is to give Com- munist China a competitive edge internationally that stems from its preferential access to relatively lower-cost commodities needed in the manufacturing process. These commodities range from bauxite, copper, and nickel to rarer commodities such as beryllium, titanium, and rare earth minerals. As a complement to this debt trap gambit and to exploit its commanding share of a wide range of critical raw materials that are essential to the global supply chain and production of high-technology and high-value-added products, Com- munist China strategically uses protectionist export restraints, including export quotas and export duties. These export restraints thereby restrict access to raw materials such as rare earth, tungsten, and molybdenum that are essential in the high-technology production space. The result is to drive up world prices and thereby put pressure on American and other foreign downstream producers to move their operations, technologies, and jobs to Communist China. American industries that have been affected by Communist China’s export restraints range from steel, chemicals, and electric cars to wind turbines, lasers, semiconductors, and refrigerants. Technology-Forcing Policies. Table 6, extracted from the White House Office of Trade and Manufacturing Policy’s report on Communist China’s economic aggression,21 provides a summary of the various policies the Chinese Communist Party uses to force the transfer of the West’s technologies to Communist Chinese soil. Formally, Communist Chinese industrial policy seeks to promote the “diges- tion, absorption, and re-innovation” of technologies and intellectual property (IP) from around the world.22 As noted in Table 6, this policy is carried out, for example, through state-spon- sored IP theft—coercive and intrusive regulatory gambits to force technology transfer, typically in exchange for limited access to the Chinese market. Commu- nist China’s looting of American technology is further enhanced by “information harvesting” conducted by Communist Chinese nationals who infiltrate U.S. uni- versities, national laboratories, and other centers of innovation. Strategic sectors targeted by Communist Chinese economic espionage have included electronics, telecommunications, robotics, data services, pharmaceuticals, mobile phone

Department of State

Very Strong

Vector: 64%

Pages: 211-213AI Enhanced

AI Analysis:

"The bill directly enacts cost‑imposing sanctions on Chinese entities that support Russia’s defense industrial base, embodying Project 2025’s call for an offensive‑defensive, cost‑imposing strategy to counter China’s threat and leverage State Department resources."

Key themes:China threatcost‑imposing sanctionsdefense industrial base disruptionState Department leadershipcountering aggression

— 179 — Department of State priority. That said, the next President must significantly reorient the U.S. govern- ment’s posture toward friends and adversaries alike—which will include much more honest assessments about who are friends and who are not. This reorien- tation could represent the most significant shift in core foreign policy principles and corresponding action since the end of the Cold War. Although not every country or issue area can be discussed in this chapter, below are examples of several areas in which a shift in U. S. foreign policy is not only import- ant, but arguably existential. The point is not to assert that everyone in the evolving conservative movement, or, in some cases, the growing bipartisan consensus, will agree with the details of this assessment. Rather, what is presented below demon- strates the urgency of these issues and provides a general roadmap for analysis. In a world on fire, a handful of nations require heightened attention. Some rep- resent existential threats to the safety and security of the American people; others threaten to hurt the U.S. economy; and others are wild cards, whose full threat scope is unknown but nevertheless unsettling. The five countries on which the next Administration should focus its attention and energy are China, Iran, Venezuela, Russia, and North Korea. The People’s Republic of China The designs of the People’s Republic of China (PRC) and the Chinese Com- munist Party, which runs the PRC, are serious and dangerous.9 This tyrannical country with a population of more than 1 billion people has the vision, resources, and patience to achieve its objectives. Protecting the United States from the PRC’s designs requires an unambiguous offensive-defensive mix, including protecting American citizens and their interests, as well as U.S. allies, from PRC attacks and abuse that undermine U.S. competitiveness, security, and prosperity. The United States must have a cost-imposing strategic response to make Bei- jing’s aggression unaffordable, even as the American economy and U.S. power grow. This stance will require real, sustained, near-unprecedented U.S. growth; stronger partnerships; synchronized economic and security policies; and American energy independence—but above all, it will require a very honest perspective about the nature and designs of the PRC as more of a threat than a competitor.10 The next President should use the State Department and its array of resources to reassess and lead this effort, just as it did during the Cold War. The U.S. government needs an Article X for China,11 and it should be a presidential mandate. Along with the National Security Council, the State Department should draft an Article X, which should be a deeply philosophical look at the China challenge. Many foreign policy professionals and national leaders, both in government and the private sector, are reluctant to take decisive action regarding China. Many are vested in an unshakable faith in the international system and global norms. They are so enamored with them they cannot brook any criticisms or reforms, let alone — 180 — Mandate for Leadership: The Conservative Promise acknowledge their potential for being abused by the PRC. Others refuse to acknowl- edge Beijing’s malign activities and often pass off criticism as conspiracy theories. For instance, many were quick to dismiss even the possibility that COVID-19 escaped from a Chinese research laboratory. The reality, however, is that the PRC’s actions often do sound like conspiracy theories—because they are conspiracies. In addition, some knowingly or not parrot the Communist line: Global leaders includ- ing President Joe Biden, have tried to normalize or even laud Chinese behavior. In some cases, these voices, like the global corporate giants BlackRock and Disney, directly benefit from doing business with Beijing. On the other hand, others acknowledge the dangers posed by the PRC, but believe in a moderating approach to accommodate its rise, a policy of “compete where we must, but cooperate where we can,” including on issues like climate change. This strategy has demonstrably failed. As with all global struggles with Communist and other tyrannical regimes, the issue should never be with the Chinese people but with the Communist dictator- ship that oppresses them and threatens the well-being of nations across the globe.12 That said, the nature of Chinese power today is the product of history, ideology, and the institutions that have governed China during the course of five millennia, inherited by the present Chinese leaders from the preceding generations of the CCP.13 In short, the PRC challenge is rooted in China’s strategic culture and not just the Marxism–Leninism of the CCP, meaning that internal culture and civil society will never deliver a more normative nation. The PRC’s aggressive behavior can only be curbed through external pressure. The Islamic Republic of Iran The ongoing protests in the Islamic Republic of Iran (Iran), which are widely viewed as a new revolution, have shown that the Islamic regime, which has been in power since 1979 when Ayatollah Khomeini became the leader, is at its weakest state in its history and is at odds not only with its own people but also its regional neighbors. Iran is home to a proud and ancient culture, yet its people have strug- gled to achieve democracy and have had to endure a hostile theocratic regime that vehemently opposes freedom. The time may be right to press harder on the Iranian theocracy, support the Iranian people, and take other steps to draw Iran into the community of free and modern nations. Unfortunately, the Obama and Biden Administrations have propped up the brutal Islamist theocracy that has hurt the Iranian people and threatened nuclear war. For example, the Obama Administration’s 2015 Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action, commonly referred to as the Iran nuclear deal, gave the Islamic regime a crucial monetary lifeline after the Green Movement protests in 2009, which, while ultimately unsuccessful, did succeed in weakening the regime and showing the world that younger Iranians want freedom.

Trade

Strong

Vector: 67%

Pages: 816-818AI Enhanced

AI Analysis:

"The bill directly addresses Project 2025's concern about Communist China's economic aggression and its use of trade and industrial policies to strengthen its defense industrial base and challenge U.S. global dominance. By targeting sanctions on Chinese entities supporting Russia's military capabilities, the bill aligns with the goal of countering China's strategic use of economic and technological tools to advance its geopolitical and military objectives."

Key themes:China economic aggressiondefense industrial basetechnology transfertrade policygeopolitical competition

Department of State

Strong

Vector: 65%

Pages: 214-216AI Enhanced

AI Analysis:

"The bill aligns with Project 2025's emphasis on countering China as the greatest threat to U.S. interests by targeting PRC support for Russia's defense industrial base, reflecting the conservative view that U.S. involvement in Ukraine must be fiscally responsible and strategically focused on limiting Chinese and Russian aggression without direct U.S. military engagement."

Key themes:China as strategic threatcountering Russia-China cooperationfiscally responsible foreign policysupporting Ukraine without direct U.S. troop involdisrupting adversary defense supply chains

— 182 — Mandate for Leadership: The Conservative Promise l One school of conservative thought holds that as Moscow’s illegal war of aggression against Ukraine drags on, Russia presents major challenges to U.S. interests, as well as to peace, stability, and the post-Cold War security order in Europe. This viewpoint argues for continued U.S. involvement including military aid, economic aid, and the presence of NATO and U.S. troops if necessary. The end goal of the conflict must be the defeat of Russian President Vladimir Putin and a return to pre-invasion border lines. l Another school of conservative thought denies that U.S. Ukrainian support is in the national security interest of America at all. Ukraine is not a member of the NATO alliance and is one of the most corrupt nations in the region. European nations directly affected by the conflict should aid in the defense of Ukraine, but the U.S. should not continue its involvement. This viewpoint desires a swift end to the conflict through a negotiated settlement between Ukraine and Russia. l The tension between these competing positions has given rise to a third approach. This conservative viewpoint eschews both isolationism and interventionism. Rather, each foreign policy decision must first ask the question: What is in the interest of the American people? U.S. military engagement must clearly fall within U.S. interests; be fiscally responsible; and protect American freedom, liberty, and sovereignty, all while recognizing Communist China as the greatest threat to U.S. interests. Thus, with respect to Ukraine, continued U.S. involvement must be fully paid for; limited to military aid (while European allies address Ukraine’s economic needs); and have a clearly defined national security strategy that does not risk American lives. Regardless of viewpoints, all sides agree that Putin’s invasion of Ukraine is unjust and that the Ukrainian people have a right to defend their homeland. Furthermore, the conflict has severely weakened Putin’s military strength and provided a boost to NATO unity and its importance to European nations. The next conservative President has a generational opportunity to bring res- olution to the foreign policy tensions within the movement and chart a new path forward that recognizes Communist China as the defining threat to U.S. interests in the 21st century. The Democratic People’s Republic of Korea Peace and stability in Northeast Asia are vital interests of the United States. The Republic of Korea (South Korea) and Japan are critical allies for ensuring a free and open Indo–Pacific. They are indispensable military, economic, diplomatic, and technology partners. The Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK, or North — 183 — Department of State Korea) must be deterred from military conflict. The United States cannot permit the DPRK to remain a de facto nuclear power with the capacity to threaten the United States or its allies. This interest is both critical to the defense of the Amer- ican homeland and the future of global nonproliferation. The DPRK must not be permitted to profit from its blatant violations of international commitments or to threaten other nations with nuclear blackmail. Both interests can only be served if the U.S. disallows the DPRK’s rogue regime behavior. OTHER INTERNATIONAL ENGAGEMENTS Western Hemisphere The United States has a vested interest in a relatively united and economically prosperous Western Hemisphere. Nonetheless, the region now has an overwhelm- ing number of socialist or progressive regimes, which are at odds with the freedom and growth-oriented policies of the U.S. and other neighbors and who increasingly pose hemispheric security threats. A new approach is therefore needed, one that simultaneously allows the U.S. to re-posture in its best interests and helps regional partners enter a new century of growth and opportunity. The following core policies must be part of this new direction: l A “sovereign Mexico” policy. Mexico is currently a national security disaster. Bluntly stated, Mexico can no longer qualify as a first-world nation; it has functionally lost its sovereignty to muscular criminal cartels that effectively run the country. The current dynamic is not good for either U.S. citizens or Mexicans, and the perfect storm created by this cartel state has negative effects that are damaging the entire hemisphere. The next Administration must both adopt a posture that calls for a fully sovereign Mexico and take all steps at its disposal to support that result in as rapid a fashion as possible. l A fentanyl-free frontier. The same cartels that parasitically run Mexico are also working with the PRC to fuel the largest drug crisis in the history of North America. These Mexican cartels are working closely with Chinese fentanyl precursor chemical manufacturers, importing those precursor chemicals into Mexico, manufacturing fentanyl on Mexican soil, and shipping it into the United States and elsewhere. The highly potent narcotic is having an unprecedented lethal impact on the American citizenry. The next Administration must leverage its new insistence on a sovereign Mexico and work with other Western Hemisphere partners to halt the fentanyl crisis and put a decisive end to this unprecedented public health threat.

Trade

Strong

Vector: 64%

Pages: 822-824AI Enhanced

AI Analysis:

"The bill aligns strongly with Project 2025's trade policy by targeting China's support for Russia's defense industrial base through sanctions on entities involved in supplying critical goods and technology, which reflects the broader goal of reducing U.S. dependence on Chinese supply chains that threaten national security and countering Communist China's economic and military enablement."

Key themes:sanctions on Chinese entitiesdisrupting China-Russia supply chainsnational security threats from Communist Chinarestricting dual-use technology transfersreducing U.S. dependence on Chinese supply chains

— 789 — Trade The following policy options were on the drawing board or in discussion as preparations for a potential Trump second term were being made. These options span the spectrum from purely trade-related like increasing tariffs to cutting off Communist China’s access to American financial markets, research institutions, and consumers. The next American President should strongly consider adopting all of them as a package: l Strategically expand tariffs to all Chinese products and increase tariff rates to levels that will block out “Made in China” products, and execute this strategy in a manner and at a pace that will not expose the U.S. to lack of access to essential products like key pharmaceuticals. l Provide significant financial and tax incentives to American companies that are seeking to onshore production from Communist China to U.S. soil. l Stop Communist China’s abuse of the so-called de minimis exemption, which allows it to evade the tariffs for products valued at less than $800. l Prohibit Communist Chinese state-owned enterprises from bidding on U.S. government procurement contracts (for example, contracts for subway and other transportation systems). l Prohibit the use of Communist Chinese–made drones in American airspace. l Ban all Chinese social media apps such as TikTok and WeChat, which pose significant national security risks and expose American consumers to data and identity theft. l Prohibit all Communist Chinese investment in high-technology industries. l Prohibit U.S. pension funds from investing in Communist Chinese stocks. l Delist any Communist Chinese stocks that do not meet Public Company Accounting Oversight Board standards or, alternatively, close off the Chinese “A shares” stock market to U.S. investment and deregister U.S.- sanctioned Communist Chinese companies. l Prohibit the use of Hong Kong clearinghouses as transit points for American capital investing in the Chinese mainland. l Prohibit the inclusion of Chinese sovereign bonds in U.S. investors’ portfolios. — 790 — Mandate for Leadership: The Conservative Promise l Systematically reduce and eventually eliminate any U.S. dependence on Communist Chinese supply chains that may be used to threaten national security such as medicines, silicon chips, rare earth minerals, computer motherboards, flatscreen displays, and military components. l Sanction any companies, including American companies like Apple, that facilitate Communist China’s use of its Great Firewall surveillance and censorship capabilities. l Order the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and Department of Justice to contract with U.S.-owned and U.S.-operated artificial intelligence companies that are capable of detecting, identifying, and disrupting both the domestic groups’ and CCP influencers’ social media operations and funding streams using public information as a rapidly available offensive measure. l Reinvigorate and expand the DHS crackdown on the CCP’s use of e-sellers (including third-party sellers) and the shippers and operators of major warehouses such as Amazon, eBay, and Alibaba to flood U.S. markets with counterfeit and pirated goods. l Compel the closure of all Confucius Institutes in the U.S., which serve as propaganda arms of the CCP. l Significantly reduce or eliminate the issuance of visas to Chinese students or researchers to prevent espionage and information harvesting. l Hold the CCP accountable for the COVID-19 virus, which almost certainly originated as a genetically engineered virus from the Wuhan Institute of Virology, and do so through the establishment of a presidential commission or select congressional committee that would investigate the origins of the virus; its various costs, both economically and in human life; and the possible means of collecting damages from the CCP, which are likely to rise to the trillions of dollars. If the new U.S. President wishes to defend this country against the serious exis- tential threat posed by Communist China, that President will adopt all of these proposals through the requisite presidential executive orders or memoranda. Effective Trade Policy in the Real World. To conclude this analysis, it is useful to offer brief reflections on a number of key obstacles to implementing the policy initiatives recommended in this chapter. These obstacles include:

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About These Correlations

Policy matches are calculated using a hybrid approach: initial candidates are found using semantic similarity between bill summaries and Project 2025 policy text, then an AI model (Llama 3.1 70B) provides detailed alignment ratings and analysis. Ratings range from 1 (minimal alignment) to 5 (very strong alignment). This analysis does not imply direct causation or intent.

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