Gordon Chang warns: China is preparing to strike America from within | On Balance

U.S.–China Relations

Gordon Chang argued that China views the United States as an enemy, while U.S. leaders have largely treated China as a competitor or occasional adversary. He pointed to Chinese propaganda, alleged espionage—including “honeypot” approaches targeting U.S. business executives—and cyber activity as signs of Beijing’s more hostile view.

Chang questioned why the United States has not responded more forcefully, comparing its approach unfavorably with its stance toward the Soviet Union during the Cold War.

Nvidia Blackwell Chips

Chang raised concerns about reports that Nvidia’s advanced Blackwell chips had reached China. He questioned whether Nvidia and the federal government had done enough to prevent illegal sales and called for an FBI investigation. He acknowledged that he did not know what the administration might already be examining.

Project Fortress

The discussion turned to the U.S. military’s “Project Fortress,” described in the segment as an effort to enable domestic bases to operate independently of civilian power and conventional supply chains for 90 days.

Host Leland Vittert played remarks from Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth about keeping bases and command centers operational during a cyberattack or other disruption.

Chang’s Conflict Concerns

Chang said he believes China is prepared to initiate a conflict. He cited alleged Chinese operatives in the United States, surveillance of military bases and infrastructure, and unexplained drone flights near Air Force bases.

He warned that a future conflict could begin on U.S. soil through cyberattacks or physical attacks, rather than starting in Taiwan or elsewhere. These were Chang’s assessments and allegations; the segment did not independently establish them.

Presenters and Contributors

• Leland Vittert: Host
• Gordon Chang: Guest; senior fellow at the Pacific Research Institute and author