U.S. Policy Toward China ― An Introduction to the Role of Interest Groups

Increased fluidity and pluralism in U.S. policy toward China in the post–Cold War period have led to growing non-governmental influence as both the administration and Congress have become the target of intense lobbying by organized groups concerned with human rights, trade opportunities, relations with Taiwan, and other hotly debated issues. This balanced study examines the central role of these organizations and shows how the recent movement toward a more consistent and coherent administration policy on China remains tentative and under attack, especially in the wake of Asian campaign contributions. Although recognizing that U.S. policymakers must consider a wider range of interests in the current political climate, Sutter argues that following the prevailing consensus among organized interests may lead to bad policy. Instead, he contends that U.S. foreign policy must strike a balance between satisfying domestic concerns while buttressing interests abroad.

Robert G. Sutter is professor of practice in international affairs at the Elliott School of George Washington University.