At least in Indonesia (where I've lived for about 3 years), there has been an anti-Chinese sentiment in the population for a long time (with covert and overert support from the US) it seems[0], and are much more militant about it at all levels (not afraid to routinely blow up Chinese fishing boats who feel enabled by Chinese claims from the islands it has created).

[0] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Anti-Chinese_sentiment_in_Indo...

Sentiments against neighbors are the most important part of the strategy. Nearly every country have negative sentiments towards their neighbors. The "gold mines" for strategic policies are religious and ethnic minorities within China. Yet the two main candidates have vast land yet small populations. So Indonesia, Malaysia, Vietnam, and any neighboring countries are better allies not to forget India.

> and some of South America

As I was reading this I thought, “and what happens when our neighbors to the south grow weary of our overbearing regional influence?”

So..what the TPP was supposed to accomplish? At least before Trump's bumbling decision to withdraw to score rhetorical points with his base. Pretty sure think tanks are several moves ahead of Trump, if he even plans out his moves at all.

Think tanks... third graders... particularly well trained border collies. Doesn’t take a lot to get out in front.