Trump Faces Conservative Backlash Over Support for Increasing Chinese Student Enrollment in U.S. Universities
When Trump helped many Chinese students study in the US, his opponents raged. The Trump administration said they would admit Chinese students more strictly, angering and confusing supporters.
Trump said in an interview that international students improve education and the economy. He also warned that restricting international students could hurt U.S. universities. “International students are very important to our colleges and universities.” Trump warned a large number cut could hurt. He discussed how important it is to get along with foreigners and how much foreign students pay for school.
Trump defended “Make America Great Again” by saying school aid boosts the economy. Leading conservatives chastised him for not understanding the party’s China policy.
Former defense secretary Michael Flynn opposed China’s rise. Conservatives worried that giving Chinese students access would hurt the economy and security due to spying and IP theft.
Chinese students have long attended American universities, despite anger. Student numbers exceeded 370,000 before COVID-19. Fewer than 280,000. Trump wants enrollment to stay or rise because colleges need them to pay bills.
Economic and national security priorities divide conservatives. Trump’s comments revealed this divide. His supporters must choose China’s rise or global education.
Voters and candidates who want to balance safety and education will likely discuss this. Politicians can’t balance international relations and voter demands, per Trump.
Sources
Associated Press reports on international student enrollment
Statements from Donald Trump and conservative political figures
Historical data from the Institute of International Education
