Xi Jinping should release Jimmy Lai and other political prisoners to improve his historical legacy and provide Trump with a diplomatic victory
Source: "HUGH HEWITT: Xi’s choice on Jimmy Lai could echo far beyond China’s borders | Fox News." May 12, 2026. www.foxnews.com
The Gist
Hugh Hewitt argues that Chinese leader Xi Jinping should free imprisoned media mogul Jimmy Lai and other political prisoners when he meets with President Trump. He thinks Xi might do this either to improve how history remembers him or to give Trump a win in exchange for other favors.
Conclusion
Xi Jinping should release high-profile political prisoners like Jimmy Lai during his upcoming summit with President Trump
Premises
- Xi has complete control over China and can make this decision unilaterally
- Releasing prisoners like Jimmy Lai would reduce global awareness of Xi's ruthlessness and improve his historical perception
- Xi may have some concern about how history or a deity will judge him, providing incentive for mercy
- Providing Trump with a visible diplomatic achievement could benefit Xi in negotiations for other concessions
- Historical precedent shows that acts of mercy by authoritarian leaders are remembered and influence reassessments of their character
- Even Xi's refusal to release prisoners would provide valuable intelligence about his character and priorities
Assumptions
- Xi cares at least somewhat about his historical legacy or divine judgment
- Trump values human rights victories highly enough to offer meaningful concessions
- Historical perception matters to authoritarian leaders
- Xi views Trump as more formidable than likely future US presidents
- Acts of mercy by dictators have meaningful impact on their historical assessment