FIRST ON FOX: China Could Face a Crackdown on Its Influence in the U.S. on Multiple Fronts if New Bills Are Passed

The United States is considering a significant crackdown on China’s influence across multiple sectors, as a slate of new bills aims to curb Chinese activities in U.S. farmland, investments, and educational institutions. Senator James Lankford (R-Okla.) led the charge this week by introducing three targeted bills designed to counter China’s expanding reach. The measures come amid growing concerns over China’s acquisition of American farmland, its predatory investment practices, and its ties to U.S. universities.

Senator Lankford and the Three Bills Targeting China’s Influence

Senator Lankford emphasized China’s aggressive strategies in acquiring U.S. assets and spreading its authoritarian influence. “China continues to buy up American farmland, steal our patents, and expand their authoritarian worldview,” Lankford told Fox News Digital. He added, “America will demonstrate to the world our values and maintain our economic and military strength to assure the globe has the best opportunity for freedom. No one in China should doubt America’s resolve and commitment to liberty.”

The three bills introduced by Lankford and co-sponsored by Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) focus on different aspects of China’s influence. The first, the Countering Adversarial and Malicious Partnerships at Universities and Schools Act (CAMPUS Act), targets China’s ties to U.S. educational institutions. This bill would prohibit joint research between U.S. universities and Chinese entities linked to the Chinese military. Additionally, it would block federal funding for schools that partner with organizations connected to China’s authoritarian regime.

The second bill, the Belt & Road Oversight Act, is aimed at China’s predatory lending practices and economic coercion. This measure would establish officers at U.S. embassies worldwide to monitor China’s investments, particularly in critical infrastructure. The goal is to counter any economic coercion and ensure transparency in China’s global investments.

The third bill, the Security and Oversight of International Landholdings (SOIL) Act, focuses on China’s acquisition of U.S. agricultural land. This measure would ban federal assistance for foreign-owned land purchases that pose a national security threat. It also expands disclosure requirements for land purchases by foreign entities, ensuring greater transparency and oversight.

The Geopolitical Context Behind the Bills

The introduction of these bills comes against the backdrop of China’s recent nuclear talks with Russia and Iran in Beijing. The meeting, which was downplayed by former President Donald Trump, raised concerns about China’s role in global security. Iran’s foreign ministry spokesperson stated that the discussions would focus on “developments related to the nuclear issue and the lifting of sanctions.”

Trump, however, suggested that the talks might be about “de-escalation” of nuclear tensions. “Well, maybe they’re going to talk about non-nuclear problems. Maybe they’re going to be talking about the de-escalation of nuclear weapons,” Trump said in the Oval Office.

The timing of these bills reflects growing bipartisan concerns about China’s influence and its potential to undermine U.S. national security and economic interests.

Concerns Over Academic Collaboration with China

The CAMPUS Act highlights the growing scrutiny of China’s ties to U.S. universities. While academic collaboration can foster innovation, critics argue that partnerships with Chinese entities, especially those linked to the Chinese military, pose significant risks. The bill aims to prevent the transfer of sensitive technologies and intellectual property that could be used to advance China’s military capabilities.

Supporters of the bill argue that it is essential to protect American research and innovation from being exploited by authoritarian regimes. By barring federal funding for schools that partner with Chinese entities linked to the military, the CAMPUS Act seeks to draw a clear line between legitimate academic collaboration and activities that undermine U.S. interests.

Trump’s Stance on China’s Global Ambitions

Former President Trump’s comments on China’s nuclear talks with Russia and Iran reflect a broader skepticism about China’s intentions. Trump, who has long been critical of China’s trade practices and global ambitions, suggested that the talks might be an attempt to project China as a peacemaker. However, many experts warn that China’s involvement in such discussions could be part of a larger strategy to expand its influence on the global stage.

Trump’s remarks also highlight the ongoing debate about how to address China’s rise as a global power. While some advocate for diplomacy and cooperation, others argue that a tougher stance is necessary to counter China’s authoritarian practices and aggression. The introduction of these bills reflects the latter approach, emphasizing the need for oversight and transparency in dealings with China.

Conclusion: A New Era of U.S.-China Relations

The introduction of these three bills marks a new chapter in U.S.-China relations, with a focus on curbing China’s influence in critical sectors. From farmland and education to economic investments, the measures reflect a growing consensus in Washington that China’s activities must be closely monitored and regulated.

As the U.S. seeks to maintain its economic and military strength, these bills aim to ensure that China’s ambitions do not come at the expense of American values and security. Whether these measures will pass into law remains to be seen, but they underscore the escalating tensions between the two superpowers and the challenges of navigating a complex and competitive global landscape.