Li Qiang’s Quiet Rise (opens in new tab)

While many people assume Chinese politics has been a one-man show since Xi Jinping became General Secretary of the Communist Party in November 2012, the truth is more complicated. Recent signals suggest a subtle shift in power dynamics. Although Xi has clearly consolidated his authority as China’s paramount leader, he now appears to be delegating key aspects of governance—particularly in economic policymaking—to his deputy, Premier Li Qiang.