Jay Clayton, President Trump’s nominee for Director of National Intelligence, indicated he could play a significant role in formulating US economic policy toward China. During his confirmation hearing before the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence, Clayton framed Beijing as a major economic and geopolitical competitor. He suggested his expertise would be “extremely helpful” in navigating this complex relationship. Lawmakers questioned Clayton extensively on key intelligence matters as part of the confirmation process. The hearing highlighted the US government’s increasing concern over China’s economic influence and potential national security risks. Clayton's confirmation would place him at the helm of the intelligence community during a period of heightened tensions with China. He was pressed on defining principal threats facing the nation.