Barr has been a vocal critic on the subject of Chinese influence, especially in the realm of economic policy. In a recent floor speech, the GOP lawmaker seemed to raise the stakes in describing how he views China's influence on the world stage.
"The Chinese Communist Party is intent on replacing the United States as the world's preeminent economic, military, and technological power," the congressman said. "They have a sophisticated plan to challenge American hegemony and leverage every possible avenue to finance their goals. Defending against these advances is one of the most significant geopolitical challenges of a generation."
Barr labeled the current Chinese efforts "economic warfare against the West."
The congressman said he plans to specifically target the theft of intellectual property and forced transfer of technology — saying he wants to implement tougher safeguards to block malign Chinese investment in the U.S.
The appointment will not affect Barr's senior positions on the House Financial Services and Foreign Affairs Committees.
