Despite a history of China-bashing during US presidential elections, other concerns are capturing the attention of candidates and voters this year. That could make preserving the equilibrium between China and the US easier this time around, if the will is there in both capitals.

Although U.S. Republican presidential candidates have surpassed the pugnacity favored by their typically hawkish party, the candidates have been unusually soft spoken on China this year. China has been recognized by the Republicans as an adversary worthy of respect, and as a desirable partner in tackling regional problems.

The U.S. vice president’s formal announcement that he will not run, and a lack of any other mainstream challenge, means the former secretary of state’s path to the presidency has suddenly been made smoother.

The U.S. vice president’s formal announcement that he will not run, and a lack of any other mainstream challenge, means the former secretary of state’s path to the presidency has suddenly been made smoother.

The remainder of the U.S. election season could play out any number of ways, but it appears a safe bet that Beijing will be spared the vitriol it witnessed in recent American political contests, perhaps the result of a cooling Chinese economy or meaningful advances in the bilateral relationship under presidents Obama and Xi.

The remainder of the U.S. election season could play out any number of ways, but it appears a safe bet that Beijing will be spared the vitriol it witnessed in recent American political contests, perhaps the result of a cooling Chinese economy or meaningful advances in the bilateral relationship under presidents Obama and Xi.

The Chinese must view Donald Trump like a house of cards in portraying the ugly side of America's political culture. Mesmerizing, yes, but not realistic.

The Chinese must view Donald Trump like a house of cards in portraying the ugly side of America's political culture. Mesmerizing, yes, but not realistic.