Donald Trump arrives in Beijing on Wednesday for a visit that reflects significant changes in China's perception of US leadership since his last state visit in 2017. While the Chinese economy faces challenges, a sense of nationalism has surged, fueled by state propaganda and views of the US as increasingly chaotic. Many locals, like Liu Cheng, express skepticism about US politicians, suggesting that regardless of who is in power, the reality of China's rise remains unacknowledged by the US. The Taiwan independence issue is a significant point of contention, with expectations that Trump will press China to soften its stance on the self-governing island. Security in Beijing is tight, with closures of historical sites like the Temple of Heaven ahead of Trump's tour. Despite mixed feelings, some locals welcome the visit, hoping it might ease US-China relations, although skepticism persists about Trump's commitment to any agreements made during the visit.