How many people killed by extremists in the US last year? Are you suggesting that US should increase their security to the same level as China (and implement a police state) to avoid more extremists death?
You can talk shit about your government, legitimately criticize them, read papers discussing news from different sides even they all biased but they still offer angles, express your opinion freely and perform your citizen duties in NY LA or Chicago.
Tell me about all these in China.
The gross mismanagement of the Iraq war and its aftermath does not demonstrate that security and freedom are incompatible. Yes, it's much more difficult in some places than others, and a despotic leader is all too happy to point out the failures in order to justify their own tyranny. What really sucks is that so many people fall for it.
You can walk 24/7 in any city in China without worrying your safety.
Tell me you dare to walk midnight in downtown New York or LA or Chicago.