Domestic divisions leave blanks in US Asia policy

In the flurry of analyses of Joe Biden's early policy moves, there is a common thread that depicts the 46th president as an agent of change towards predictability in policymaking, and as a much-desired course correction after the chaotic Trump years. In undoing the political and reputational damage done by his predecessor, Biden has a hefty task of convincing both Americans and America-watchers that the United States still occupies a central role in the international system and can act as a force for good.Unlike Donald Trump, Joe Biden is a foreign policy veteran, having served as the Senate Foreign Relations Chair and a two-term vice president. Much like the famous rhyme for marital success, Biden has decided to opt for 'something old' and surround himself with people he has had a track record working with. His foreign policy team comprises long-time practitioners and experts, many of whom were integral to the Obama administration and the Clinton cabinet.