US-China competition: Policy priorities from Capitol Hill

Monday, May 11, 2026, 4:00 - 4:45 p.m.
Location: The Brookings Institution, Falk Auditorium, 1775 Massachusetts Ave NW, Washington, D.C. 20036

What steps can the United States take to sharpen its strategic advantages over China?  

In a new initiative launched by the Brookings Institution, leading experts from across the institution will join the broader policy community to address this critical question. Although the United States remains the world’s preeminent power, it increasingly risks falling behind China, especially in key technological and military domains. To address the multifaceted challenge posed by China, the project will develop bold, practical policy recommendations across key areas, including strengthening the domestic foundations of U.S. power and sharpening the tools of American statecraft abroad. 

On Monday, May 11, to mark the launch of this project, the John L. Thornton China Center at Brookings will host Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.) and Senator Thom Tillis (R-N.C.) for a conversation on the evolving congressional approach to U.S.-China competition, key takeaways from their recent congressional delegation to Asia, and their perspectives on policy priorities that should guide America’s approach to the next phase of this strategic rivalry. The discussion will feature a moderated conversation followed by audience questions.