During this captivating interview with Joe Pags, renowned China expert Gordon Chang discusses key issues surrounding China’s growing influence on the global stage and Minnesota Governor Tim Walz’s concerning ties with the Chinese Communist Party (CCP).
The conversation begins with Chang’s insights into China’s notorious censorship, particularly how it suppresses information, such as what happened during the Tiananmen Square Massacre. Chang agrees with Pags, who had encountered firsthand China’s misinformation while adopting his daughter from China. Chang explains that China is keen on erasing the memory of the Tiananmen Square Massacre because it represents a threat to the Communist Party’s narrative. According to Chang, China's leadership wants to rule the world and has built a total surveillance state to maintain control. Chang notes that with over 700 million surveillance cameras, the CCP is constantly monitoring both its citizens and foreigners within its borders.
The discussion shifts to China’s push for a fully digital currency, which Chang asserts is another attempt by the CCP to control its population. A digital currency would allow the Chinese government to monitor and dictate citizens’ spending, even setting conditions where money disappears if it isn’t used in a specific timeframe. Chang describes this as a significant step in China’s ambition to centralize power and manipulate its economy and people.
The interview then takes a deeper look at Tim Walz, who has made numerous trips to China, both as a teacher and during his time as governor of Minnesota. Chang finds this troubling, explaining that trips like these must be approved by the Communist Party’s United Front Work Department, an organization known for spreading CCP propaganda to foreigners. Chang expresses concern over Walz’s visits, which he says could signal an intentional effort by the CCP to build influence through American figures.
Chang also addresses Walz’s false claim during a vice presidential debate that he was present during the Tiananmen Square Massacre in Hong Kong. Walz’s frequent visits to China, combined with his inaccurate statements about his experiences there, lead Chang to question his true connections to the CCP.
Wrapping up the interview, Chang emphasizes that while China is attempting to position itself as a global superpower, the United States remains a far stronger society. He warns, however, that the CCP views the existence of the U.S. as a threat to their rule. Chang’s final message is clear: China is determined to secure global dominance and will continue to use tactics like misinformation, surveillance, and influence over foreign figures to achieve their goals.
For more insights into China’s geopolitical strategy and its efforts to influence foreign leaders like Walz, watch the full interview below.