Khanna: 'I would’ve taken a different tone'

Ro Khanna, a California Rep. and a member of the Select Committee on the Chinese Communist Party, expressed his disapproval of California Governor Gavin Newsom's recent visit to China. Khanna stated, "I would’ve taken a different tone. The most substantive bipartisan work that’s taking place in Congress is on the China Select Committee and that has a lot to do with Mike Gallagher's leadership."

Last week, Governor Newsom visited China, becoming the first governor to do so in over four years. He spent a week in the country and held a meeting with China's President, Xi Jinping. This visit was one of several by U.S. officials this year. Some U.S. lawmakers have expressed dissatisfaction with Newsom's trip, particularly regarding his agenda, which included discussions about "advancing climate action and cooperation, promoting economic development and tourism, and strengthening cultural ties", according to a press release from the office of Governor Newsom.

However, some U.S. lawmakers, including Khanna and Mike Gallagher, the chair of the Select Committee on the Chinese Communist Party, have expressed dissatisfaction with Newsom's trip. Gallagher criticized Newsom for not addressing important issues such as forced labor and the mistreatment of Uyghur Muslims. He also highlighted the Chinese Communist Party's role in environmental pollution, alleging hypocrisy in climate negotiations.

“Go meet with Xi Jinping but the first three things should be: What’s happening with the Uyghurs?," said Khanna, according to an interview on Squawk Box. "What is happening with our trade deficit? We want our jobs back. What are you doing in ratcheting up the tension in Taiwan?”

These criticisms reflect a growing sentiment among some U.S. lawmakers regarding the approach to China. While diplomatic visits and discussions are important for international relations, there is a call for a more assertive stance on issues such as human rights abuses, economic competition, and national security.

Governor Newsom's visit to China and the subsequent criticism from lawmakers highlight the complex relationship between the United States and China. As the two countries navigate various challenges and opportunities, the role of lawmakers like Khanna and Gallagher in shaping U.S. policy towards China becomes increasingly significant.