Staff Reports
In an exclusive interview, Governor Ron DeSantis (R-FL) made it clear that he views China as a major threat to the United States. With his foreign policy agenda set to be unveiled in Washington, D.C., DeSantis emphasized China’s attempt to undermine America’s dominance by capitalizing on the Israel-Hamas conflict.
“In a new ad DeSantis's campaign released Thursday, the governor called for eradicating the terrorist group Hamas and eliminating America's dependence on China, a growing superpower.
— Andrew Romeo (@andrewromeo33) October 26, 2023
Since the surprise attack by Hamas on October 7th, DeSantis has been actively involved in the crisis. He has organized four flights to rescue nearly 700 Americans stranded in Israel, provided weapons and healthcare supplies to the country, and even ordered the shutdown of pro-Palestinian protests at Florida’s universities. DeSantis has consistently criticized the Chinese Communist Party throughout his term, and he plans to address their efforts to challenge America’s position as the leading superpower in his upcoming speech.
To emphasize his stance, DeSantis released a campaign ad calling for the eradication of Hamas and the reduction of America’s reliance on China. The ad highlights the ongoing rocket and mortar attacks faced by Israel, showing images of President Joe Biden and suggesting that his perceived weakness has emboldened enemies like China. The narrator goes on to suggest coordination between Russia, China, and Hamas in their criticisms of Israel and demands for a ceasefire.
In the ad, DeSantis asserts that the objective should be the elimination of Hamas and its infrastructure, rather than a proportionate response. He also emphasizes the need to reclaim economic independence from China. DeSantis firmly believes that strategic decoupling from China is necessary, as he accuses China of showing interest in American farmland and land near military bases. He vows not to let the United States be controlled by the Chinese Communist Party if he becomes president.
This foreign policy speech at the Heritage Foundation is crucial for DeSantis, as he currently finds himself in a battle with former U.N. Ambassador Nikki Haley for the runner-up position in the 2024 Republican primary, behind former President Donald Trump. With the ongoing conflict in the Middle East claiming more than 1,400 lives in Israel, both candidates have intensified their attacks on each other.
DeSantis strongly opposes President Biden’s proposal to combine aid for Ukraine and Israel in a $106 billion foreign aid package. He also objects to the allocation of $100 million in humanitarian aid for those living in the Gaza Strip and allowing refugees from Gaza to enter the United States. DeSantis has even challenged his opponents in the 2024 presidential race to denounce Biden’s actions, referring to them as a “gift to Hamas” while hundreds of hostages remain in the hands of the terrorist group.
In addition to his criticism of China, DeSantis has taken various measures to curb Chinese influence. He has signed legislation to limit Chinese acquisitions of agricultural land and land near military bases. Additionally, he has announced executive actions to address the cybersecurity, real estate, and academic threats posed by China and other hostile foreign powers.
Overall, Governor DeSantis is steadfast in his belief that China poses a significant threat to the United States’ global standing. He is determined to protect American interests by countering China’s influence and working towards curtailing its power.
