The article draws a comparison between President Trump's policies and Mao Zedong's Great Leap Forward. It argues that Trump's approach, characterized by protectionist tariffs, attacks on institutions, and a disregard for global alliances, is inadvertently strengthening China's global dominance.
The article highlights America's industrial decline compared to China's advancements in manufacturing various goods, including cement, steel, and electric vehicles. Trump's response, through high tariffs and neglecting investments in science and technology, is seen as counterproductive.
The author suggests parallels between Trump's administration and Mao's regime, particularly regarding a 'cult of personality' and the suppression of dissenting voices. The purging of individuals deemed disloyal within the administration and the removal of books deemed 'heretical' from institutions are cited as examples.
The central argument is that Trump's policies, while intended to counter China's rise, are unintentionally accelerating it. By weakening America's institutions, scientific research, and global alliances, Trump's actions are considered to be creating a situation where China gains global dominance.
Ultimately, the article paints a picture of a self-defeating strategy, where America's actions are inadvertently paving the way for China's global preeminence.