In a recent Reagan National Defense Survey, it has been revealed that despite ongoing wars in Israel and Ukraine, the majority of Americans see China as the greatest threat to the United States, surpassing Russia and Iran. This revelation has prompted seventeen Republican governors to send a letter to President Biden, Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen, and congressional leaders, urging them to take action against China’s increasing acquisition of American land, including farmland.
Led by Republican Arkansas Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders, the group of governors highlights the national security threat posed by the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) and emphasizes the urgent need for a national response. The governors express concerns over the communist regime’s acquisition of real property throughout the United States, citing a recent transaction where a Chinese-controlled company purchased 270 acres of land in Michigan.
The governors criticize the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States for failing to review or block such alarming transactions. They argue that while states have taken steps to protect American citizens, the Biden administration has not adequately addressed the issue. The letter also highlights bipartisan efforts in eleven states to enact foreign ownership laws, with Arkansas being the first state to order a Chinese-owned agricultural company to divest land.
The governors call on Congress to pass legislation that mitigates the threat posed by adversarial foreign governments and encourage the Biden administration to utilize all available tools to prevent further acquisition of American lands. They stress that this is not about targeting individuals based on their origin but rather about safeguarding national security and protecting American farmers and citizens.
The letter has been addressed to President Biden, Treasury Secretary Yellen, House Speaker Mike Johnson, House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, and Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell. Digital has reached out to these offices and the White House for comment.
The Republican governors’ concerns align with a shifting public perception of China. The Reagan National Defense Survey shows that a growing number of Americans view China as an enemy, with 77% holding this view compared to just 15% who see China as an ally. The survey also reveals that a majority of Americans consider China as the greatest threat to the nation, surpassing the previous top concern of Russia.
As the issue of China’s land acquisition continues to raise concerns, it remains to be seen how the Biden administration and Congress will respond to the call for action from these Republican governors.
