Will China overtake the US as the most powerful nation? Here’s what Americans think

Jayanta KalitaTIMESOFINDIA.COM
Feb 2, 2026 | 12:02 IST

A majority of Americans believe the US is in decline in terms of power and influence, while nearly two-thirds opine China’s power now matches or surpasses that of America, according to a survey by Carnegie Endowment for International Peace

US President Donald Trump’s recent actions in Venezuela sent shockwaves across the international community, underscoring a renewed focus by the Trump administration on Central and South America.

Yet this strategic shift appears to contrast with how Americans themselves perceive global priorities. According to a survey conducted by a leading Washington-based think tank, most Americans still regard North America — home to the US mainland — as more important than other regions of the world.
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