Illustration: Liu Xidan/Global Times

In recent years, an unsettling trend has emerged in the US: Lawmakers seem more preoccupied with crafting proposals, legislation and bills aimed at countering China than addressing the pressing issues facing their own constituents. This phenomenon is not only evident but increasingly alarming. It underscores a troubling reality that for many US politicians, the pursuit of political interests and competition trumps the welfare of the American people. This commentary seeks to unpack why this is happening, why "People First" never seems to cross the minds of US politicians, and how this neglect will ultimately seriously impact the country.

The China obsession: a convenient distraction

The fixation on China can be seen as a convenient distraction from domestic issues. It allows lawmakers to rally public support and create a sense of unity against a perceived external threat. This tactic is not new. Throughout history, governments have used external adversaries to divert attention from internal problems. In the US, framing China as a strategic competitor serves this purpose well. It offers a scapegoat for economic woes, technological lag and other shortcomings. However, this approach is inherently flawed because it prioritizes geopolitical maneuvering over genuine problem-solving at home.

The economic landscape in the US is fraught with challenges: income inequality, stagnant wages, crumbling infrastructure and a faltering healthcare system, to name a few. Yet, instead of focusing on policies that would directly address these issues, lawmakers opt for anti-China rhetoric and measures. This obsession manifests in various forms, from imposing tariffs to restricting Chinese tech companies, to engaging in a new Cold War-style arms race. Such actions might score political points but they do little to improve the everyday lives of Americans.

Political interests over people's welfare

The crux of the issue lies in the nature of US politics itself. American political culture is deeply rooted in the pursuit of power, often at the expense of public service. Lawmakers are heavily influenced by special interest groups, corporate lobbyists and the need to secure campaign funding. In this environment, decisions are frequently made based on what will garner the most votes or financial backing, rather than what will benefit the public.

China-related legislation provides a fertile ground for political grandstanding. By taking a tough stance on China, politicians can appeal to nationalist sentiments, which are particularly potent in times of economic uncertainty and social unrest. This tactic creates a façade of strength and decisiveness, even as underlying domestic issues remain unaddressed. Furthermore, the bipartisan consensus on China allows politicians from both sides of the aisle to rally around a common cause, thereby masking the deep divisions and dysfunction within the US political system.

Why 'People First' never comes to mind

The concept of "People First" is fundamentally at odds with the current priorities of US politicians. The American political system is designed in a way that incentivizes short-term gains over long-term solutions. Elected officials operate within the confines of election cycles, which are relatively short. This encourages a focus on immediate wins that can be touted in campaign advertisements, rather than on comprehensive policies that require time to develop and implement but would yield sustainable benefits for the populace.

Moreover, the media landscape plays a significant role in shaping political agendas. Sensationalism and fear-mongering drive ratings, and stories about the "China threat" are more likely to capture the public's attention than nuanced discussions about domestic policy. This media bias creates a feedback loop, where politicians prioritize issues that will generate headlines, further sidelining the substantive needs of their constituents.

Long-term implications for the US

The long-term neglect of domestic issues in favor of geopolitical posturing will have severe repercussions for the US. First, it erodes public trust in government. When people see their leaders more concerned with international rivalries than solving their everyday problems, cynicism and disillusionment grow. This disengagement from the political process undermines democracy itself, as citizens feel their voices are not being heard.

Second, the focus on China distracts from critical investments needed at home. Infrastructure, education, healthcare and social services all suffer from underfunding and neglect. This lack of investment weakens the foundation of American society and economy, making it less competitive on the global stage. Ironically, in their bid to compete with China, US lawmakers are neglecting the very elements that could strengthen the country from within.

Third, this approach exacerbates social divisions. The rhetoric surrounding China often veers into xenophobia and racism, fueling discrimination and violence against Asian Americans. This not only harms communities but also distracts from the unity needed to tackle collective challenges.

A path forward: reprioritizing domestic welfare

To rectify this course, US lawmakers must shift their focus back to the needs of their constituents. This involves a fundamental rethinking of political priorities, putting "People First" at the center of policymaking. Investments in infrastructure, education and healthcare should be seen not just as expenses but as essential foundations for a prosperous and competitive nation.

Furthermore, a more balanced approach to international relations is needed. Engaging with China should not come at the expense of addressing domestic issues. Diplomatic and economic policies must be crafted with a clear understanding of their impact on the American public. This balanced approach would involve collaboration on global challenges such as climate change, pandemics and technological innovation, rather than defaulting to adversarial posturing.

In conclusion, the current US obsession with countering China is a symptom of deeper political dysfunction. By prioritizing geopolitical competition over domestic welfare, lawmakers are failing the very people they are elected to serve. The long-term consequences of this neglect will be profound, weakening the social and economic fabric of the nation. It is imperative for US politicians to recalibrate their priorities, focusing on the needs of their constituents.

The author is a Prague-based American journalist, columnist and political commentator. opinion@globaltimes.com.cn