How much will taxpayers shoulder?

[Zenda]

First, the quantity of 'Made in China' is just an anecdote

Hardly. They also make much of the parts (electronic and otherwise) used in American and European products, you know.

Third, the whole point of the argument Kandrathe is making is that the trade deficit with China is maintained by currency manipulation, so if the US has lost its post-WWII export surplus, that is in part because China refuses to play ball with the Yuan except on its own terms.

That's a rather strong statement, but I'm sure you can show some proper references to it.

The difference is that they import more than they export

Which is all the difference that matters. Being able to produce much in absolute numbers while needing even more doesn't make things easier. It's the shortage that counts.

... which is not a measure of the weakness of the American economy, but rather the relative desire *and ability* of the American consumer to consume. The Chinese do not have such options, and I dare say that if their government would let them, they'd take them.

You should try selling that desire_and_ability_of_the_American_consumer_to_consume phrase to some Republican PR commitee in the USA:)

Do you really think it would be a good idea, to have all Chinese living like Americans and Europeans do right now? With their numbers, they are causing enough environmental damage as it is.