Most K Street leaders expect Congress to pass China competition legislation before the end of the year, according to our most recent survey of top lobbyists.
Countering China is one of the few areas of strong bipartisan agreement in Congress. Lawmakers are concerned about several issues, including intellectual property theft, cyber espionage and China’s advancements in artificial intelligence and biotechnology.
Among the respondents, 47% of Democrats and 58% of Republicans said Congress will pass legislation this year to make the United States a stronger competitor to China.
Trade: The survey was conducted as President Donald Trump continues to go back and forth on his trade policies with several countries. A plurality of lobbyists, 42%, said it’s likely the administration will reach a trade deal with China by the end of the year.
Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent is leading trade negotiations with Chinese officials and said last week the two sides had “the makings of a deal.” Since May, there’s been a 90-day break on escalating tariffs on Chinese goods. That pause expires on Aug. 12.
More Republican lobbyists (53%) than Democrats (31%) said it’s likely a trade deal happens.
The Canvass K Street was conducted July 7-25 in partnership with independent public affairs firm, LSG.
Want to take part in The Canvass? Our survey provides anonymous monthly insights from top Capitol Hill staffers and K Street leaders on key issues Washington is dealing with. Sign up here if you work on K Street. Click here to sign up if you’re a senior congressional staffer.
– Kenzie Nguyen
