U.S. Vice President J.D. Vance sparked controversy during an appearance on Fox News’ “Fox & Friends” on April 3 with his shocking remark on Chinese workers: “We borrow money from Chinese peasants to buy the things those Chinese peasants manufacture.” He also blamed the globalist economy for U.S. debt and the loss of domestic jobs.
The Trump administration has recently faced backlash over its escalating tariffs, which officials have introduced as a strategy to recover trillions in U.S. debt. Vance portrayed the American economy as overly dependent on foreign labor and manufacturing, positioning tariffs as a means to restore domestic industry and employment.
China responded swiftly as clips of the interview spread online. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian called the comments “astonishing and lamentable,” describing them as “ignorant and disrespectful.” Outrage flared on Chinese social media, with hashtags criticizing Vance trending on Weibo. Prominent commentator Hu Xijin mocked Vance’s background, calling him the “true peasant” from rural America. Others highlighted China’s technological rise, posting sarcastic comments like, “Aren’t such peasants quite impressive?”
Vance’s remarks came amid a peak in U.S.-China trade tensions. Trump recently imposed 145% tariffs on Chinese imports, prompting China to retaliate with 125% tariffs on American goods and declare it would “fight to the end” against U.S. “bullying.”
The trade standoff has rattled global financial markets. Economists warn that the rising tariffs could drive up consumer prices, disrupt international supply chains, and heighten the risk of a global recession.