Whenever China is mentioned in an American presidential campaign, the consequences are rarely good. In 2012 residents of Ohio, where anti-Beijing ads proliferated, might have believed that the campaign hinged on China. This time U.S. policy toward China might become a broader election issue, leading to serious damage in the relationship.
Trade, proliferation, human rights, cyberwar, security and more are at stake in how the existing superpower and emerging great power get along in coming years. Whether cooperation or confrontation dominates may define the 21st century.
Unfortunately, political campaigns generally are not well-suited for the thoughtful discussion of complex international issues. Especially today, when many Republican voters are skeptical of any foreign policy message that does not involve pummeling one nation or another.