The China Questions

See below for a short NPR piece on five questions that will most likely play a major role in tonight's debate. According to the author, these will be:

• Should China be labeled a "currency manipulator"? 
• Are we narrowing the trade gap with China? 
• What about those jobs being "shipped to China"? 
• What challenge does China's strategic ambition pose for the U.S.? 
• Should we be worried about China's push to modernize and expand its military capabilities?

In light of our most recent class discussions, it will be very interesting to see the debate over the first question. This has been a major component of Romney's "tough on China" approach in lieu of the more overtly protectionist policies that Obama has touted, such as the U.S. tariff on imported Chinese tires; according to this article, however, the concern about Chinese currency manipulation is an outdated one that has diminished as a result of broader economic forces (the recession) and U.S. efforts in 2005 to prevent the practice. 

We will see if Obama will respond to Romney's proposals with these counterarguments. Judging from past performances and campaign ads on the candidates' China policies, however, it is more likely that the exchange will consist of Romney accusing Obama of accommodating "cheaters" and Obama accusing Romney of supporting outsourcing and increasing the trade gap through his career in business.

http://www.npr.org/blogs/itsallpolitics/2012/10/19/163263452/five-debate-worthy-facts-about-china