Next US president picks surprising candidate for key diplomatic role in Beijing
President-elect makes unexpected choice for top diplomatic post just weeks before taking office. Former senator to handle complex US-China relations while trade-tariff plans loom ahead
In a quick-moving diplomatic development Donald Trump chose ex-senator David Perdue as his pick for US ambassador to China yesterday; the announcement came through his Truth Social platform
The president-elect shared his thoughts about the choice: “Peace in the region and good ties with Chinaʼs leaders will be Perdueʼs main focus“ Its worth noting that the former senator brings his business-world experience to this role (having run major companies before his political career)
The incoming administration plans some tough-minded trade policies including:
- New 10% fees on Chinese products if fentanyl trafficking isnt stopped
- Possible tariff increase up to 60% on imports from China
The timing of this choice — just 6 weeks before Trump takes power in jan-20-25 — shows how fast-paced the transition team works; experts say this early pick means China-relations are a top priority for the new white-house team
