House Takes Action Against China Amid Political Divisions

This week, the House of Representatives addressed a long-anticipated package of bills aimed at taking a firm stance against China. However, many of these measures are unlikely to become law, as Republican leaders have opted to prioritize several politically contentious proposals that face strong opposition from Democrats.

For months, House leadership had assured the public of a bipartisan effort to confront the United States’ foremost economic and military rival. This initiative included efforts to limit investments in sensitive sectors within China, tighten regulations against data theft and espionage, and ensure that all Chinese imports comply with labor standards and taxation policies. Yet, only a fraction of these proposals made it to the House floor this week.

Instead of focusing solely on these bipartisan measures, Republican leaders introduced several partisan bills that seem designed to portray their party as more resolute in countering China while painting Democrats—and by extension, the Biden administration—as ineffective. This strategic maneuvering comes just weeks before crucial elections that could shift the balance of power in both the White House and Congress.

“Because the White House has chosen not to confront China and safeguard America’s interests, House Republicans will take the lead,” stated Speaker Mike Johnson, a Republican from Louisiana, during a press briefing on Tuesday.

Here’s a closer look at the actions taken by the House and the reasoning behind them:

• Subjecting International Pandemic Agreements to Senate Treaty Approval: In response to widespread criticism of the World Health Organization’s handling of the coronavirus pandemic, Republicans passed a bill that mandates Senate ratification for any W.H.O. agreement related to pandemic preparedness.