Staff Reports
Peter Navarro nailed it: the Chinese regime flatters, makes promises, then quietly rips off the deal while smiling for the cameras. If we keep treating Beijing like a polite guest at a dinner party, we will keep losing our jobs, our technology, and our influence. It’s time Republicans stop being surprised and start being smart.
China’s two-faced diplomacy isn’t a mystery
The Chinese regime uses charm and promises as tools. They say what you want to hear, then they change the rules in ways that favor state-backed firms. This is not negotiation. It’s a playbook. For years American firms were told trade would be fair, investment would be safe, and technology transfers would be voluntary. Instead, we saw intellectual property theft, forced joint ventures, and unfair subsidies that undercut American workers.
We should learn their ruthlessness — not their lies
When former White House trade adviser Peter Navarro says “take a page out of their book,” he means use tough, clear policies that protect America. That does not mean copying oppression or censorship. It means being aggressive where needed: enforce trade laws, restrict dangerous tech transfers, and demand real reciprocity. Too many in Washington act like rules are optional. They’re not. Our economy and our security depend on enforcing them.
Policy moves that actually work
Practical steps are simple and doable. Strengthen export controls on sensitive technology. Expand screening of foreign investments that threaten critical industries. Use tariffs and sanctions when China breaks promises. Support American factories with targeted incentives so supply chains return home. And enforce criminal and civil penalties for theft of U.S. intellectual property. These are not radical ideas — they’re basic national defense for the economy.
Time for economic patriotism
We can be firm without being reckless. We can defend our workers, our technology, and our allies while avoiding endless fearmongering. Republicans should lead on this with clear plans and blunt language. Navarro is loud, and sometimes blunt, but he nails a key truth: kindness isn’t a strategy when one side wants domination. Let’s stop being surprised and start being smart. Our country and our industries deserve nothing less.
