Pew Research Center reports that Americans’ feelings toward China have warmed since 2021, although views remain predominantly negative. In its survey of 5,193 US adults conducted from 14 to 20 September 2026, the China results are based on the 1,168 respondents who rated the country on a 0-to-100 feeling thermometer.
The average rating rose from 28 in 2021 to 37 in 2026. Cold ratings fell from 68% to 54%, while neutral ratings increased from 20% to 27% and warm ratings from 11% to 19%. The finding measures changing US public opinion rather than offering a global assessment of China or a forecast of bilateral relations.