The Florida governor also noted that the United States has developed a dangerous dependence on Chinese supply chains.
"We have to restore the economic sovereignty of this country and take back control of our economy from China," DeSantis stated during a campaign stop in New Hampshire. "The abusive relationship, the asymmetric relationship between our two countries must come to an end. No more massive trade deficits, no more importing of goods with stolen intellectual property, no more preferential trade status."
DeSantis also claimed US-China relations have been marred by the trade dumping, currency manipulation and espionage.
US and Chinese officials have held several meetings over the last few months to address a range of issues, especially on issues pertaining to trade. President Joe Biden expects to speak with his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping soon, but no date for their talks has been announced yet.