Advancing U.S.-China Coordination amid Strategic Competition: An Emerging Playbook

The exponential growth of artificial intelligence (AI) systems is driving unprecedented demands for power that could overwhelm existing infrastructure. If not addressed, U.S. companies may have to relocate AI operations overseas, jeopardizing national competitiveness and security, per commentary from RAND Corporation. 

• James Pethokoukis at American Enterprise Institute writes that the newly announced Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), led by Elon Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy, will act as an external consulting group to the Trump White House, aiming to provide recommendations to streamline government operations by July 4, 2026.

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• The commentary argues that Washington policymakers should examine actionable proposals for improving healthcare, Social Security, and tax reform. These policies emphasize market incentives, fiscal responsibility, and economic growth, as discussed in the AEI report "A Balanced Plan for Fiscal Stability and Economic Growth."

• William H. Frey at Brookings writes that despite claims of a multiracial transformation, Trump's support remains predominantly among white voters, with only modest gains among Latino or Hispanic voters and minimal shifts among Black voters.
• The analysis asserts that the long-standing racial voting divide persists, with Democrats retaining significant support from Black and Latino or Hispanic voters, questioning any significant transformation of the GOP voter base.

• Pew Research Center report shows that the presidential race between Harris and Trump is currently deadlocked, with each candidate receiving 49% support among registered voters. Voters regard Trump as stronger on the economy while Harris is preferred on abortion and personal traits like honesty.
• The survey asserts that voters are divided on Trump’s actions related to the 2020 election and his age. Additionally, Harris would make history if elected, being the first woman, Asian American, and Black woman president, while Trump would become the oldest person to assume office at 78.

• Brendan Duke at Center for American Progress argues that Project 2025 proposes a tax plan that raises taxes on low- and middle-income families while giving significant tax cuts to the wealthy and corporations.
• The analysis asserts that the introduction of a flat consumption tax and elimination of income taxes would result in higher costs for middle- and low-income households, shifting the tax burden away from wealthy individuals and large corporations.