In the recent presidential debate, held on September 29, 2020, Vice President Mike Pence and Senator Kamala Harris delineated their respective stances on key foreign policy issues. Throughout the debate, both candidates provided their perspectives on topics such as China, North Korea, and America’s relationships with allies and adversaries. This article will analyze and compare their responses to these critical questions, providing insight into their foreign policy approaches and priorities.
In response to questions about the United States’ approach to China, Senator Harris emphasized the need for a tough on China stance, citing concerns about the country’s human rights abuses, intellectual property theft, and trade practices. She criticized the Trump administration’s handling of the U.S.-China relationship, arguing that it has been ineffective in addressing these key issues. Harris advocated for building alliances with other countries to counter China’s influence and hold them accountable for their actions.
Conversely, Vice President Pence defended the Trump administration’s approach to China, asserting that they have stood up to China like no other administration before. He highlighted the tariffs imposed on Chinese goods, the renegotiation of trade deals, and efforts to address Beijing’s unfair trade practices. Pence maintained that the administration’s tough stance on China has yielded results and protected American jobs and intellectual property.
On the topic of North Korea, both candidates expressed the importance of denuclearizing the Korean Peninsula. Senator Harris emphasized the need for a strategic approach based on diplomacy and working with allies in the region to encourage North Korea to relinquish its nuclear weapons. She criticized President Trump’s personal diplomacy with North Korean leader Kim Jong-un, arguing that it has not produced tangible results in terms of denuclearization.
Vice President Pence defended the administration’s engagement with North Korea, noting that President Trump’s meetings with Kim Jong-un have resulted in a cessation of missile tests by North Korea. Pence also highlighted the return of American hostages and the repatriation of the remains of U.S. soldiers from the Korean War as achievements of the administration’s efforts in the region.
In terms of America’s relationships with allies and adversaries, Senator Harris underscored the importance of restoring trust and leadership on the global stage. She criticized the Trump administration for undermining alliances like NATO and withdrawing from international agreements such as the Paris Climate Accord and the Iran Nuclear Deal. Harris emphasized the need for rebuilding relationships with allies and cooperating on shared challenges such as climate change and global security.
Vice President Pence defended the administration’s foreign policy record, arguing that President Trump has prioritized American interests and made significant progress in areas such as trade agreements and peace agreements in the Middle East. Pence emphasized the need for burden-sharing among NATO allies and highlighted the administration’s efforts to encourage other countries to contribute more to collective security.
Overall, the debate between Vice President Pence and Senator Harris provided a window into their contrasting perspectives on critical foreign policy issues. While Harris emphasized the importance of diplomacy, alliances, and multilateral engagement, Pence defended the administration’s America-centric approach and highlighted its efforts to protect American interests and hold adversaries accountable. The outcome of the debate offers voters valuable insight into the foreign policy priorities and strategies of the respective candidates as they vie for the highest office in the nation.
