MAGA Fans Attack Trump Over Chinese Student Policy Change

Some of his most devoted fans are criticizing former President Donald Trump for reiterating his decision to let hundreds of thousands of Chinese students to study in the US, which many saw as a major reversal of his strong attitude on China.

Trump announced at a trade gathering this week that Xi Jinping has invited him to Beijing. He also said the U.S. would accept 600,000 Chinese students into its universities as part of its close connection with Beijing. He noted that China tariffs are generating big cash for the U.S. and that he expects the relationship with Xi to improve.

Secretary of State Marco Rubio had committed to aggressively investigate and revoke visas for Chinese students, particularly those with Chinese Communist Party affiliations or working in critical academic disciplines. Trump’s approach differs. Trump had hinted at this turnaround in June, but his new statement confirmed it. He earlier stated on Truth Social that permitting Chinese students to attend American universities has “always been good” with him.

Trump supporters reacted quickly and sharply. Leading MAGA figures lambasted the decision, saying it defies his campaign promises. Michael Flynn Jr., son of the former White House adviser, said the program is “not what I voted for,” while conservative activist Laura Loomer claimed without evidence that many Chinese students are “Communist spies.” Other voices urged Trump to reconsider and accused him of violating campaign promises.

Conservatives said Trump’s action could be part of a negotiation strategy. Texas Republican leader Bo French indicated that Trump may be using the issue as leverage, but he still opposed admitting Chinese students into the US. However, many in the MAGA base saw the move as a major break from Trump’s previous tough immigration and foreign policy positions.

Trump is handling many international discussions when the controversy arises. He met with South Korean President Lee Jae Myung during the meeting to discuss a July trade pact that included 15% tariffs on South Korean goods entering the US. Trump had previously warned that South Korean unrest could prompt the U.S. to suspend business with the country, but his meeting with Lee was far more pleasant. Lee lauded Trump’s leadership and suggested a Trump Tower in North Korea.

The day showed Trump’s difficult task of maintaining a harsh image on foreign rivals while negotiating for long-term U.S. interests. But many of his grassroots supporters regard the change on Chinese students as a hazardous compromise. Trump was accused of betraying his “America First” policy.

Whether this current scandal will hurt Trump’s base is unclear. The former president’s choice has reignited splits in his movement, with loyalists doubting if he will continue to implement the hardline policies that brought him to prominence.

Sources

CNN Politics
The Guardian
NBC News