A recent poll conducted by the Ronald Reagan Institute indicates a significant generational divide in how Americans perceive the threat posed by China. The survey found that 93% of Americans aged 65 and older view China's ability to spy on the U.S. as a major concern, compared to 62% of those aged 18 to 29. Younger Americans also expressed less concern regarding China's potential military actions against Taiwan (56% versus 86%), technology theft (61% versus 91%), and the purchase of U.S. land (68% versus 93%).
Despite these differences, overall concern about China remains high, with over 80% of Americans expressing worry about its role in the flow of fentanyl into the U.S., espionage, and land purchases. The survey results reflect a broader trend in which younger Americans are less inclined to prioritize U.S. technological dominance over China and favor a less expansive American role in foreign affairs.
The poll was conducted from May 26 to June 3, 2026, among 1,555 U.S. adults, with a margin of error of plus or minus 2.5 percentage points. The findings suggest that as younger voters become a larger part of the electorate, public attitudes towards China and U.S. foreign policy may continue to evolve.