Trump Names Former Sen. David Perdue as Ambassador to China

U.S. President-elect Donald Trump has announced former Senator David Perdue as his choice for ambassador to China, emphasizing the need to maintain productive ties with Beijing during his second term.

Trump made the announcement Thursday night on Truth Social, describing Perdue as “a loyal supporter and friend.” Highlighting his qualifications, Trump stated, “He will be instrumental in implementing my strategy to maintain peace in the region and a productive working relationship with China’s leaders.”

Perdue, 74, served on the Senate Armed Services Committee and the Foreign Relations Committee and has a background in international business, including work in Singapore and Hong Kong. Trump pointed to this expertise as vital to fostering constructive U.S.-China relations.

Foreign policy experts have noted the strategic implications of Perdue’s appointment. Bryce Barros, a security fellow at the Truman National Security Project, characterized the nomination as more conventional than many of Trump’s previous national security picks. Barros also suggested Perdue would align with Trump’s hawkish approach to China, especially regarding tariffs and strategic competition.

Ryan Fedasiuk, a former State Department adviser, said Perdue’s success will hinge on balancing the dual objectives of strategic competition with China and cooperation on shared global challenges like artificial intelligence risks. “Ambassadors to China must walk a fine line—maintaining access to senior Chinese officials while upholding U.S. interests and values,” Fedasiuk noted.

Perdue’s tenure could prove challenging given his previous divergence from Trump on tariffs before ultimately supporting them. Observers expect he will now back Trump’s hardline stance on trade with China while navigating complex issues such as economic security, human rights, and national defense.

Perdue’s nomination comes amid Trump’s broader efforts to assemble a staunch national security team, including Rep. Mike Waltz as National Security Adviser and Sen. Marco Rubio as Secretary of State.

Perdue, who lost his Senate seat to Democrat Jon Ossoff in 2020 and was defeated in Georgia’s gubernatorial primary, now faces a pivotal role in one of the most sensitive diplomatic postings.

The Senate will need to confirm his appointment.