Donald Trump, a figure who’s often been polarizing within the United States, has unexpectedly gained traction in some of China’s online spaces. Though at first glance, Trump’s conservative policies might seem incongruous with China’s values, his growing popularity among certain Chinese social media users reveals complex intersections of social, economic, and generational dynamics within China.
As China’s economy develops, previously unorthodox ideas are becoming more mainstream, creating a natural backlash. From queer culture to resistance against authoritarianism, China’s rapid modernization has introduced new values, influenced by urbanization, globalization, and increased exposure to Western ideas. China’s economic growth has widened the gap in life experiences between generations and between urban and rural residents. Young people in Chinese cities today experience vastly different realities from their parents and grandparents, who grew up in a country still emerging from poverty. With urbanization, younger generations have access to modern amenities, education, and employment opportunities, unlike many in rural China, where life has changed at a slower pace. This growing divide leads to generational conflict, with older, rural-dwelling citizens often holding more traditional views.
Moreover, this older generation living in the rural area constitutes a larger portion of the Chinese population. For this more conservative circles, Trump’s rhetoric around maintaining tradition and skepticism of liberalism mirrors their discomfort with changes brought by China’s rapid progress. This segment of the population, largely more rural and conservative, finds resonance with Trump’s values, particularly as they clash with the more liberal, modern views emerging among urban youth.
However, even within the younger generation in China, Trump has a unique attraction. The segment most attuned to global events—those with access to foreign news, education abroad, or familiarity with Western social media—tend to come from more privileged backgrounds. This group is often more affluent and conservative in economic outlook, aligning with Trump’s policies favoring deregulation and business interests. While these young people may not embrace Trump’s politics fully, his pro-business stance aligns with their professional and economic aspirations, especially as they see economic growth as a key factor in China’s rising global status. Furthermore, Trump’s often direct and unapologetic communication style resonates in an online culture increasingly drawn to bold, assertive voices, a trend that appeals to young, privileged Chinese users.
Overall, Trump’s appeal in China’s online communities can be seen as a reflection of broader social tensions within Chinese society. His popularity is driven by complex generational divides, economic disparities, and a sense of disconnection felt by those who are either resistant to rapid modernization or feel empowered by its economic opportunities. For many Chinese citizens observing U.S. politics from afar, Trump’s conservatism is less about aligning with American values and more about finding parallels to their own concerns amid the fast-evolving landscape of Chinese society.
