Rep. Carlos Gimenez, a member of the House Select Committee on the Chinese Communist Party (CCP), emphasized China as the 'greatest threat' to the United States. He expressed concerns about China's military and economic advancements, stating that China surpasses the U.S. in production capacity, particularly in defense materials and weapons.
Gimenez pointed out the need for the U.S. to enhance its defense capabilities, citing the Russian-Ukraine conflict as a demonstration of potential weaknesses. He warned that in a prolonged conflict with China, the U.S. could face challenges due to a potential shortage of munitions and a lesser capacity to produce ships compared to China.
Gimenez criticized the Biden administration for what he perceived as a weak approach towards China, contrasting it with what he believes to be a stronger stance taken by former President Donald Trump. He emphasized the importance of prioritizing America's security through strength rather than appeasement.
In addressing the China threat, Gimenez advocated for U.S. energy independence as a strategic advantage. He proposed making America the 'energy spigot of the world,' which he believes would bolster the country's financial position and enable it to influence global energy markets to the detriment of adversaries like Iran, Venezuela, and Russia.
Gimenez stressed the significance of projecting strength and confronting aggression from the CCP to contain the threat effectively. He highlighted the bipartisan nature of the House Select Committee on the CCP, emphasizing the shared recognition among members that China poses a significant threat that must be addressed.
Looking ahead, Gimenez underscored the committee's ongoing work in addressing the escalating China threat. He reiterated the importance of acknowledging China as a primary concern rather than focusing solely on other global issues like climate change.
In conclusion, Gimenez expressed confidence in Trump's ability to take decisive action in countering the China threat and emphasized the necessity of proactive measures to safeguard America's interests in the face of growing challenges posed by the Chinese Communist Party.