Coronavirus pandemic triggers ideological showdown between US and China as world watches

American and Chinese officials are engaged in an ideological “battle” occasioned by the novel coronavirus pandemic that could shape global perceptions of free societies and authoritarian regimes, according to U.S. officials.

“There is a real question that I don't think has been resolved yet about which one of the multiple competing narratives prevails here,” a senior U.S. official who was not authorized to speak publicly told the Washington Examiner. “Does this advance distrust? Or does it advance trust towards China and its system? That battle is really to be determined....