Conservative commentator and CPAC board member Mercedes Schlapp argued that China is facing growing economic pressure and said President Donald Trump is engaging with Chinese President Xi Jinping at a critical moment for Beijing.
Speaking during a televised appearance discussing Trump’s summit with Xi in China, Schlapp pointed to economic concerns inside China as a major factor shaping the negotiations between the two global powers.
“China is under pressure, its economy is failing, and President Trump is engaging at exactly the right moment,” Schlapp wrote while sharing clips from the interview online.
Her comments echoed arguments from longtime China analyst Gordon Chang, who has repeatedly warned about economic instability, debt problems and slowing growth inside China.
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The remarks came as Trump concluded a high-profile summit with Xi Jinping focused on trade, artificial intelligence, Taiwan, global security and economic relations between Washington and Beijing.
Supporters of Trump argued the president is entering negotiations from a position of strength as China faces mounting economic challenges tied to weak domestic demand, manufacturing concerns and ongoing trade tensions with the United States.
Critics, however, continue warning that tensions between the two countries remain extremely fragile despite ongoing diplomatic talks.
The summit also renewed debate surrounding tariffs, supply chains and the long-term economic rivalry between the world’s two largest economies.
Analysts believe the outcome of future U.S.-China negotiations could have major consequences for global markets, technology industries and international trade moving forward.
CPAC Board Member Gordon Chang is right: China is under pressure, its economy is failing, and President Trump is engaging at the exact right moment. pic.twitter.com/p6T6KdOnIx
— Mercedes Schlapp (@mercedesschlapp) May 15, 2026
