Americans' perceptions of China have softened in recent years, according to a Pew Research Center survey conducted in late March. The percentage of Americans holding favorable views of China rose to 27%, nearly double the 14% recorded in 2023. Meanwhile, the share of Americans who view China as an "enemy" dropped sharply from 42% in 2024 to 28% this year.
Partisan Divides
The increase in favorability is largely driven by Democrats, with 34% expressing approval of China compared to 18% of Republicans. Democrats are also significantly less likely to label China as an enemy, with only 14% holding that view versus 44% of Republicans. Despite this shift, the majority of Americans still see China as a competitor rather than a partner.
Trust in Leadership
Confidence in Chinese President Xi Jinping remains low, with only 17% of Americans trusting him to "do the right thing regarding world affairs"—a figure that has doubled since 2023. Similarly, 60% of Americans lack confidence in President Trump's handling of U.S.-China relations, reflecting ongoing skepticism about both leaders' approaches.
The U.S. and China remain locked in a competition for technological dominance and global influence, even as public perceptions shift.
President Trump is scheduled to visit China next month amid ongoing tensions over Iran and other geopolitical issues. The softening of American public opinion comes as China's global favorability rises while America's declines during Trump's second term.