Poll points to softer US views of China before Trump-Xi summit

Americans’ views of China have become less negative ahead of this week’s summit between US President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping, according to a poll released on Monday. The survey was conducted by the Chicago Council on Global Affairs. Its findings indicate that respondents now see Beijing as less of a threat than they did last year and in 2024, when US public opinion towards China reached an all-time low, according to the source material.

The poll also found lower support for Taiwan and a greater tendency to favour engagement with China rather than a policy of containment. The findings suggest a shift in attitudes as the two presidents prepare to meet, although the supplied material does not provide the survey’s sample size, dates or detailed percentages. The results reflect a partisan divide in the United States, the source said.

It gave no further breakdown of how views differ between political groups. The survey’s findings come as the Trump-Xi summit is due to take place this week. The supplied information does not specify the agenda for the meeting or identify the issues expected to dominate the discussions.

The poll therefore provides an indication of changing public sentiment, but the available material does not establish why respondents’ views have shifted or whether the change is likely to affect US policy. It does show that engagement has gained support relative to containment, while concern about China and backing for Taiwan have declined from earlier levels.