Former Sen. Roy Blunt: Trump’s latest China crackdown puts American lives on the line

Former Senator Roy Blunt expressed concern over a Treasury Department proposal that would restrict U.S. biotech investments in China, arguing that it could have detrimental effects on American lives and national security. Throughout his 12 years in the U.S. Senate, Blunt fought to maintain America's dominance in the global biotech industry, recognizing its importance for economic growth and public health emergencies.

He worked with colleagues from both parties to secure a significant increase in NIH funding during the Covid-19 pandemic, which led to the successful development of vaccines and treatments. The proposed Treasury restriction, however, could hinder U.S. companies from developing breakthrough medicines efficiently and quickly, thereby potentially harming American patients and weakening national security.

These partnerships enable American patients to participate in clinical trials and access lifesaving treatments, as well as give U.S. companies greater influence over the development and manufacturing of new medicines. In 2025, the U.S. recorded a $3.7 billion trade surplus with China in pharmaceuticals, highlighting the importance of these collaborations.

Treasury officials are urged to focus on biotech deals that pose clear security threats, such as those involving technologies for biological weapons, while avoiding blocking legitimate research partnerships. Policymakers should also prioritize strengthening America's scientific capabilities through sustained federal investment in research, strengthening intellectual property protection, protecting research institutions, and expanding domestic research and manufacturing capacity.