Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the internal divisions within the U.S. as states like California and Washington take independent actions to strengthen ties with China, contrasting with the federal government's confrontational stance under Trump [1][3][10]. Group 1: Federal vs. State Policies - Trump's tariff policies, intended to pressure China, have inadvertently harmed U.S. states reliant on trade, creating confusion and instability [3][5]. - States are increasingly taking matters into their own hands, with officials openly criticizing federal policies and seeking direct engagement with China [10][12]. - The disconnect between federal and state approaches has led to a "self-rescue" movement among states, as they prioritize economic stability over federal directives [10][18]. Group 2: Economic Implications - Trump's tariffs are projected to result in a loss of 2 million jobs in the U.S., with families facing an average annual cost increase of $5,000 [5][21]. - Despite the challenges posed by tariffs, states like California still see significant trade with China, with exports to China accounting for 20% of California's total exports [20][29]. - Local businesses are finding ways to circumvent tariffs, indicating a resilience and adaptability in state-level economies [27][29]. Group 3: The Emergence of a "Second Track" - The article highlights the emergence of a dual-track U.S.-China relationship, where federal policies are characterized by uncertainty while state-level interactions are driven by mutual economic interests [18][20]. - This "second track" serves as a stabilizing force in U.S.-China relations, providing a buffer against the volatility of federal policies [21][23]. - The growing cooperation at the state level is seen as a response to the unpredictability of federal actions, with states offering a more reliable partnership for China [25][31]. Group 4: Future Outlook - The article suggests that the true winners in this scenario are those who can provide certainty and predictability, as these qualities become increasingly valuable in international relations [25][32]. - As states continue to forge their own paths, the potential for a more stable and interconnected U.S.-China relationship emerges, despite federal tensions [29][31]. - The ongoing internal divisions within the U.S. may lead to a "de facto decoupling," where states operate independently of federal policies, creating new opportunities for collaboration with China [31][32].