The war in Iraq is by far the most important issue in the American presidential campaign, which is gearing up in earnest. But other issues, notably China, are attracting the interest of voters as well as candidates. In fact, a debate last week between seven Democratic presidential candidates - including all three frontrunners, Senator Hillary Rodham Clinton, Senator Barack Obama and John Edwards - focused in part on Sino-US relations.
Since the Democrats are expected to strengthen their control of both houses of Congress in elections next year - and possibly even capture the White House - their views on China are important.
Not surprisingly, perhaps, many of the statements made by the candidates reflected a protectionist attitude. Congressman Dennis Kucinich, whose ideas have become increasingly mainstream despite his low support ratings, took pride in the fact that he was the only candidate 'who actually voted against China trade' by opposing most-favoured-nation trade status for China in 1999.
While Senator Christopher Dodd made it clear that he did not want a tariff war with China, he did accuse Beijing of manipulating its currency and employing slave labour, and suggested the United States should have suspended imports from China after reports of tainted pet food, toothpaste and toys.
One interesting theme was that big business was as much to blame as China for America's problems. 'Big corporate America is driving American policy with respect to China,' said Mr Edwards. 'They get their way, and the American people lose.' Senator Obama echoed the theme, saying he wanted to 'give a voice to American workers'.
Asked about China's 'huge military build-up', former senator Mike Gravel - whose public support is low to nonexistent - pointed out: 'They're only 10 per cent of American defence. They haven't had a tremendous increase.' He added that 'this amount of demagoguery is shameful'.