Kurt Campbell, the current US Deputy Secretary of State, remains a central figure in shaping American foreign policy toward China and the Indo-Pacific. Having served as the White House coordinator for Indo-Pacific affairs from 2021 to 2024, Campbell has been a consistent voice in advocating for a stronger US presence in the region. His influence dates back to the Obama administration, where he was widely recognized as a primary architect of the 'pivot to Asia' strategy, which sought to reorient US diplomatic and military resources toward East Asia.

Throughout his tenure, Campbell has emphasized the importance of regional partnerships, most notably the Quad—a security dialogue involving the United States, Japan, India, and Australia. His approach generally focuses on balancing competition with China while managing the risks associated with emerging technologies, such as artificial intelligence. While Campbell’s supporters view his work as essential for maintaining regional stability and democratic norms, critics often interpret his strategies as part of a containment policy that risks escalating tensions with Beijing. The SCMP report highlights his long-standing career as a strategist, noting that his influence has persisted across different presidential administrations, reflecting a bipartisan consensus in Washington regarding the strategic necessity of focusing on the Indo-Pacific.