Washington’s long-standing China policy rested on the belief that economic growth would inevitably lead to political openness and alignment with Western values. This assumption, held for decades, proved incorrect, according to analysis of the relationship. The US anticipated that as China’s economy expanded, it would adopt more democratic principles and a more open society. However, China’s development has followed a different trajectory, maintaining its distinct political system despite significant economic progress. This miscalculation has prompted reassessment of US strategy toward China, acknowledging the failure of expectations for convergence. Experts suggest a need for a revised approach based on a realistic understanding of China’s continued divergence from Western models.