Americans’ attitudes toward China are showing signs of softening, even as overall views remain largely negative, according to new data from Pew Research Center.
About 27% of U.S. adults now hold a favorable view of China, a six-point increase from last year and nearly double the share recorded in 2023.
Despite that shift, most Americans still view China unfavorably, and a majority continue to see it primarily as a global competitor rather than a partner. Around 60% describe China as a competitor, while the share who consider it an enemy has declined to 28%, down from 33% in 2025.
The change in sentiment appears to be driven largely by Democrats and Democratic-leaning independents, who have grown more positive toward China in recent years. Republican views have remained more stable, though both parties have seen some increase in favorability since 2023.
Age also plays a significant role. Younger Americans are more likely to view China positively, with about one-third of those under 50 expressing favorable opinions, compared to just 19% of adults 50 and older.
Confidence in leadership is shifting as well. Americans are slightly more confident in Chinese President Xi Jinping’s handling of global affairs than in recent years, while confidence in President Donald Trump’s ability to manage U.S. policy toward China has declined to 39%.
Researchers say the findings reflect a modest but notable shift in public opinion, even as China remains a central point of economic and geopolitical tension for the United States.
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