Ro Khanna to Lead Democrats on House China Committee: Silicon Valley's 'Economic Patriotism' Rising

He opposed the TikTok divestment, but he's calling for a resurgence of American manufacturing. Ro Khanna, the progressive representative from Silicon Valley, is set to become the top Democrat on the House Select Committee on the CCP. This move signals a strategic pivot in how Washington balances tech innovation with the escalating competition with China.

Ro Khanna House China Committee Appointment Amid Democratic Shakeup

House Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries announced on Monday, Jan 5, 2026, that Khanna will replace Representative Raja Krishnamoorthi. Krishnamoorthi, a veteran voice on China policy since the committee's inception in 2023, is stepping down to pursue a Senate run in Illinois.

Krishnamoorthi's tenure was marked by aggressive legislative wins, including the Biosecure Act and the mandate for TikTok's parent company to divest. Khanna, while sharing the committee's concerns, has often advocated for a more nuanced approach that avoids stifling the American tech sector he represents.

Defining 'Economic Patriotism' in Tech Policy

In his acceptance statement, Khanna introduced the concept of "economic patriotism." It's a term that attempts to bridge the gap between progressive labor concerns and the bipartisan need to de-risk from Chinese supply chains. Representing a district that includes parts of Silicon Valley, his leadership will likely prioritize high-tech manufacturing and domestic R&D over broad-brush trade bans.