Concerns Over Chinese Students in the US

Lily Tan Williams, a Republican House candidate in New Hampshire, expressed concerns on Tuesday about increasing the number of Chinese students relocating to the United States. She believes this may not be the best decision for the country.

During an appearance on Fox & Friends First, President Donald Trump announced plans to allow 600,000 Chinese students to study in the U.S.

Williams remarked, “People need to recognize that not all Chinese students are the same. Some, like myself, wanted to come to America in the 1980s and 1990s for freedoms and opportunities. Now, after China joined the WTO, many wealthy and privileged students are coming here with specific goals.”

She added that the Chinese government, under President Xi Jinping, is encouraging this influx through its National Security and Information Act. “If they don’t comply, there can be serious repercussions. So, I’m not sure this is a good idea right now. We have many people crossing through the southern border under [former President] Biden’s administration. Where are they? Are they being properly vetted?”

In June, the U.S. and China reached an agreement permitting Chinese students to enroll in American universities, following restrictions from the Trump administration which had raised national security concerns regarding foreign students at campuses, including those at Harvard.

Trump mentioned, “I’ve heard so many stories about limiting their students. But now, we’re allowing 600,000 students from China. It’s significant, and it’s important that we maintain good relations with China.”

Additionally, the president conveyed to a Daily Caller correspondent that while it could be advantageous for Chinese students to attend American schools, they must undergo careful evaluation.