What summit? US TV blackout and midterms turmoil overshadow red-carpet treatment

A summit aimed at fostering a more equal relationship between the United States and China was overshadowed by domestic turmoil in the United States and the ongoing feud between President Donald Trump and the media. Trump hosted Chinese President Xi Jinping upon his first state visit to the US in over a decade, rolling out a lavish welcome that included a state dinner at the White House.

However, major US networks suspended their live coverage in an escalating dispute with the president, limiting the public's view of the hospitality provided. The three networks most affected - CNN, MSNBC and Politico - sued the administration, claiming their ban was unconstitutional, but their access to the White House was not reinstated.

In contrast, other networks including ABC, CBS, NBC and Fox News also withdrew from pooled coverage, resulting in no live footage of the state dinner. The tension between the US and China remains a significant issue, with the US press showing little indication of softening towards Beijing on matters such as Iran, Taiwan and rare earths.

Critics have questioned the excessive deference shown to China, particularly given domestic economic pressures. Republican Senator Lisa Murkowski also found the red-carpet treatment for Xi Jinping to be a bit over the top. Chinese experts have noted the contrast between Trump's approach to the media and his predecessor, Joe Biden, who attempted to frame tensions between the two countries as a contest between democracy and authoritarianism.

However, the upcoming US midterm elections in November could impact the US administration's approach to China, potentially making it harder for Trump to pursue his stance amid criticism from within the Democratic Party.