A chilling familiarity: Trump's America and China's cultural revolution.
Imagine a world where the lines between comedy and criticism blur, where the stage becomes a minefield of potential pitfalls. This is the reality for Vickie Wang, a stand-up comedian who has experienced the cultural shifts in both China and the US. Wang, with her unique perspective, offers a glimpse into a disturbing trend.
Since Donald Trump's re-election as US President, a palpable change has swept the nation. Wang, who relocated to the US in 2025, describes it as "standing on shifting sands." A sense of unease prevails as enemies are ostracized, the President demands unwavering loyalty, and journalists face threats. It's a scenario that feels eerily reminiscent of China's political landscape.
But here's where it gets controversial: is the US undergoing its own cultural revolution, akin to China's half a century ago? Zhang Qianfan, a constitutional law professor at Peking University, believes so. He argues that Trump's tactics of mobilizing the grassroots to undermine the elite mirror the events of China's past. It's a bold claim that sparks a crucial question: Are we witnessing a shift towards authoritarianism in the US?
The crackdown on free speech is the most profound similarity between Trump's America and China. Deng Haiyan, a former police officer turned CCP critic, experienced a shocking backlash after tweeting about Charlie Kirk's death. His family was exposed, and he was accused of being a Chinese spy. This incident highlights the growing intolerance for dissent, a trend that feels all too familiar to those from China.
"The lighthouse has become dimmer," Zhang says, referring to the decline of America's image as a beacon of constitutional democracy. Chinese liberals, once critical of their own political system, now find America's flaws more objectionable. It's a painful realization, especially as China makes strides in environmental and technological advancements.
And this is the part most people miss: the Trump administration's acquisition of stakes in US companies, reminiscent of China's blurred lines between government and private industry. This move has raised concerns about government interference in private enterprise, a trend that contrasts sharply with the US's historical commitment to free markets.
While there are still significant differences between Trump's America and China, the similarities cannot be ignored. The fear of censorship and the erosion of free speech are real concerns for those who have experienced life under authoritarian regimes. Even in the US, people are adopting precautions once associated with more oppressive countries.
So, is the US heading down a dangerous path? Are we witnessing the erosion of democratic values? These are questions that demand our attention and thoughtful discussion. What are your thoughts on this matter? Feel free to share your opinions and engage in a constructive dialogue in the comments below.
