President-elect Donald Trump has chosen Senator Marco Rubio, a prominent critic of China, for secretary of state, hinting at a shift towards a more confrontational approach with Beijing. Rubio's nomination, alongside other hawkish figures like Mike Waltz and John Ratcliffe, suggests Trump aims to challenge the prior administration’s relatively moderated China policy. Rubio, a vocal advocate for Taiwan's independence, human rights, and stringent trade measures, has supported sanctions and legislation addressing issues from Hong Kong's autonomy to Uyghur forced labor in China. While Trump's past rapport with Xi Jinping adds complexity, Rubio's leadership could lead to increased arms sales to Taiwan and harsher export controls on China. Beijing's response remains cautious, with officials signaling openness to cooperation while preparing for potentially tense relations under Rubio’s influence.
