Ohio Senator J.D. Vance shares perspectives on China that align with foreign policy thinkers emphasizing Asia as a priority. Donald Trump’s recent selection of Vance as his running mate offers insights into potential Northeast Asia policies under a second Trump presidency.

Unlike traditional Republican hawks such as Marco Rubio, Vance’s views diverge. He leans towards a strategy of coexistence with Beijing while deterring aggressive actions detrimental to U.S. interests, a stance advocated by figures like former Trump official Matt Pottinger and ex-Rep. Mike Gallagher, as noted by Paul Poast of the University of Chicago.

Vance’s alignment with Elbridge Colby, another former Trump official, reflects this approach, highlighted during his mention of Colby at the National Conservatism conference. Critics have labeled Vance and Colby as neo-isolationists, but Vance’s public statements clarify his intent to uphold existing security frameworks while countering threats to them. However, constraints in American manufacturing due to decades of policy missteps pose challenges, affecting priorities like aiding Ukraine against Russian aggression while supporting Israel and deterring Chinese actions, particularly concerning Taiwan.

Vance underscores support for Israel based on religious grounds and emphasizes the critical need to prevent a Chinese invasion of Taiwan, which he warns would devastate the U.S. economy akin to a Great Depression. While Vance opposes Russian President Vladimir Putin and stands with Ukraine, he asserts that Europe, with its resources, should shoulder primary responsibility in confronting Russia if it poses an existential threat to Europe.

In summary, Vance’s views advocate a nuanced approach to foreign policy, particularly in managing relations with China while navigating complex global security dynamics.