Politics

Cease-fire in US-China trade war doesn’t bridge differences

Published

6 years ago

June 30, 2019

WASHINGTON (AP) — Once again, Presidents Donald Trump and Xi Jinping have hit the reset button in trade talks between the world’s two biggest economies, at least delaying an escalation in tension between the U.S. and China that had financial markets on edge and cast a cloud over the global economy.

But when U.S. and Chinese negotiators sit down to work out details, the same difficult task remains: getting China to convince the United States that it will curb its aggressive push to challenge American technological dominance — and then to live up to its promises.

At the Group of 20 meeting in Osaka, Japan, Trump and Xi agreed to a cease-fire in the trade conflict . Trump said Saturday he would hold off for the “time being” on plans to impose tariffs on $300 billion more in Chinese imports — on top of the $250 billion he’s already targeted. This decision will jump-start trade talks that stalled last month.

“We’re going to work with China where we left off,” Trump said Saturday. He also said China had agreed to buy more American farm products.

Andy Rothman, an investment strategist with Matthews Asia and a former economic official with the U.S. Embassy in Beijing, said the Trump-Xi meeting was more conciliatory than he expected. He was struck by Trump’s use of the term “strategic partner” to describe U.S. relations with China after other administration officials have played up the geopolitical rivalry between the two countries.

Addressing another contentious issue, Trump said he will now allow U.S. companies to sell some components to Chinese telecommunications giant Huawei, which last month was put on an American blacklist as a threat to national security. Trump said that Huawei will stay on the blacklist, however, and that its future won’t be decided until the end of the trade talks.

Neil Shearing, London-based chief economist at Capital Economics, predicted that financial markets will rally with relief when they reopen Monday. “But I don’t think this marks the turning of the tide,” he said. “Talks will ebb and flow, but the direction over the next 12 months will be toward renewed escalation because issues around industrial strategy will prove to be so intractable.”

The Trump administration says China is trying to cheat its way to dominance in the cutting-edge technologies of the future such as artificial intelligence and quantum computing.

In a report last year, the Office of the United States Trade Representative accused Beijing of resorting to predatory tactics to challenge American technological supremacy.

These include forcing foreign companies to hand over technology in exchange for access to the Chinese market; subsidizing its own companies (especially those owned by the state) while burying foreign firms in regulations; providing government money so Chinese firms can buy sensitive foreign technology at above-market prices; and stealing trade secrets outright.

Eleven rounds of talks failed to end the standoff. The United States has imposed 25% import taxes on $250 billion in Chinese products and threatened to target $300 billion more — a move that would extend the tariffs to virtually everything China ships to the United States.

China has lashed back with tariffs on $110 billion in American goods, focusing on agricultural products in a direct and painful shot at Trump supporters in the U.S. farm belt.

The last time Trump and Xi met — in early December at a G-20 gathering in Buenos Aires, Argentina — they also reached a cease-fire that injected new life into the talks. But the momentum didn’t last.

Until May, it appeared that the two countries were slowly closing in on a deal. But then U.S. officials accused their Chinese counterparts of reneging on commitments they’d made earlier, and talks broke down.

Getting them back on track could prove difficult. Beijing is reluctant to end subsidies to Chinese companies and to write any commitments into Chinese law. The Chinese also want the United States to drop its tariffs as a condition of any deal. But the Trump administration insists on keeping tariffs to use as leverage to make sure that China keeps its promises.

For now, business groups are relieved that the tariffs aren’t expanding and optimistic the two countries can reach a deal.

“We are encouraged that China and the United States have agreed to continue negotiations without further escalation of the mutually damaging trade war,” said Jason Oxman, president of the Information Technology Industry Council. “We are also relieved that President Trump has reconsidered his threat to impose additional tariffs, which would have accelerated harm to all American consumers, workers, and businesses of all sizes.”

Still, the decision to go easy on Huawei drew immediate fire politically. “Huawei is one of few potent levers we have to make China play fair on trade,” said Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y. “If President Trump backs off, as it appears he is doing, it will dramatically undercut our ability to change China’s unfair trades practices.”

The Commerce Department put the firm on a blacklist because of the possibility its equipment could be used for cyberespionage. Trump suggested that his administration will review the company’s status on Commerce’s so-called Entity List and cleared the way for U.S. firms to sell it some components.

Both countries have economic and political incentives to reach a deal. Xi is overseeing a decelerating economy and likely won’t want to be engaged in a destructive trade war when China’s ruling Communist Party meets in October.

Trump, too, is confronted with an economy that, though still healthy, has looked a bit wobbly. And the trade hostilities with China have hurt his supporters in rural America as he campaigns for re-election in 2020.

“This is a truce for now – for Xi, ahead of the Communist Party celebrations in October and for Trump, dependent on how his re-election campaign progresses,” said Diana Choyleva, chief economist at Enodo Economics. “But as we’ve said before, fundamentally, this dispute is about much more than trade – it’s part of a longer-term Great Decoupling that stems from a conflict over technological supremacy and geopolitical power. This is about redefining the world political and economic order, a process that will see periods of relative calm and also periods of significant turbulence.”

“Both Chinese and U.S. leaders recognize the importance of bringing the relations back to the right track,” said Li Yong of the China Association of International Trade.

“President Xi said we hoped to see normal relations. It’s hard to predict what will happen tomorrow, so I cannot say when the relations will return to right track.”

Florida

Rep. Johanna López and Sen. Ana Maria Rodriguez File Bipartisan Bill to Strengthen Florida Pool Safety Standards

Published

1 day ago

October 24, 2025

Willie David

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (FNN) – Florida State Representative Johanna López (D-Orlando) and State Senator Ana Maria Rodriguez (R-Doral) have joined forces to introduce bipartisan legislation, House Bill 117 and Senate Bill 244, aimed at strengthening residential pool safety standards statewide. The bills address Florida’s ongoing drowning crisis, particularly among young children, and seek to save lives through updated, enforceable safety requirements.

Legislation Overview

If enacted, HB 117 / SB 244 would require all residential properties with a swimming pool to include at least one safety feature—such as a barrier, pool cover, or alarm—when sold or transferred after October 1, 2026, regardless of when the pool was originally built.

Additionally, home inspectors would be required to report any violations during property transactions, ensuring compliance before ownership transfers.

Florida’s Drowning Crisis

Florida has led the nation in unintentional drowning deaths among children ages 1 to 4 every year since 2018. According to the Florida Department of Children and Families, 97 child drowning deaths were reported in 2025, with 81% occurring in residential settings—especially in older homes built before current safety laws took effect.

Lawmakers Speak on Saving Lives

“Too many families in Florida have suffered the unimaginable loss of a child due to accidental drowning — an entirely preventable tragedy,” said Representative Johanna López. “This legislation is about protecting every Floridian who enters a pool, whether they’re a child or an adult who never learned to swim. No family should have to endure such a heartbreaking loss when we have the means to prevent it.”

“The age of a swimming pool should not determine whether someone lives or dies from a preventable accident,” added Senator Ana Maria Rodriguez. “It’s been 25 years since the Residential Swimming Pool Safety Act was passed. This legislation will finally close the gap and include all pools—new and old—saving countless lives.”

Implementation Timeline

If passed and signed into law, the new pool safety requirements would take effect on July 1, 2026, marking the most significant update to Florida’s residential pool safety laws in a quarter century.

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News@FloridaNationalNews.com

Central Florida News

Orlando Fire Chief Charlie Salazar Resigns After Three Years; Mayor Dyer Appoints Jason Revoldt as Interim Chief

Published

1 week ago

October 17, 2025

Willie David

ORLANDO, Fla. (FNN) — After three years of dedicated service, Orlando Fire Chief Charlie Salazar has announced his resignation from the Orlando Fire Department, effective November 3, 2025. The City of Orlando expressed its deep appreciation for Chief Salazar’s leadership and contributions to the department’s growth and modernization.

Salazar’s Leadership and Achievements

During his tenure, Chief Salazar spearheaded several major initiatives that strengthened the department’s operational capacity and community outreach. His key accomplishments include:

Securing approval for up to four new fire stations to meet the demands of Orlando’s growing population.
Overseeing the approval of a new OFD Training Complex, which is set to break ground soon.
Launching a Cadet Program that provides local residents—especially those from underrepresented communities—pathways to become firefighters.
Creating the Community Engagement & Preparedness Officer role to enhance public safety awareness.
Introducing the PMO crossover-to-firefighter program, expanding professional opportunities within the department.

In a farewell statement, Salazar shared, “My departure comes with a personal decision to return home to Texas, where I look forward to spending more time with my growing family — including two grandchildren who were born during my time here. While this next chapter brings joy and reunion, it also brings a bittersweet farewell to a city and a department that welcomed me with trust and purpose.”

Mayor Dyer Appoints Revoldt as Interim Fire Chief

Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer has appointed Deputy Chief Jason Revoldt as Interim Fire Chief, effective October 18, 2025. Revoldt, a 24-year veteran of the department, brings extensive experience across multiple operational areas. He is certified as a State of Florida Paramedic, Law Enforcement Officer, FBI Bomb Technician, and Arson K-9 Handler.

Before this appointment, Revoldt led the Life Safety Bureau, overseeing new construction and development reviews, the Arson & Bomb Squad, community outreach and safety programs, and the Fire Marshal’s Office.

City Thanks Salazar, Welcomes Revoldt’s Leadership

City officials extended heartfelt thanks to Chief Salazar for his service and steady leadership over the past three years. They also expressed confidence in Chief Revoldt’s ability to continue guiding the department with integrity and dedication.

“We’re thankful for Chief Salazar’s stewardship and congratulate Chief Revoldt on his new role,” the City’s statement read.

OrlandoFireDepartment, ChiefSalazar, JasonRevoldt, BuddyDyer, OrlandoNews

Florida

Former Florida State Representative Daisy Morales Closes Out FNN’s 2025 National Hispanic Heritage Month Spotlight

Published

1 week ago

October 15, 2025

Willie David

ORLANDO, Fla. (FNN) – Florida National News is honored to close out National Hispanic Heritage Month by showcasing the achievements and contributions of The Honorable Daisy Morales, former Florida State Representative. Her impact in state lawmaking, conservation, advocacy, and bipartisanship continues today through her nonprofit work—ensuring her legacy of service to Floridians and Puerto Rican communities endures for generations to come.

Watch Video:

The Honorable Daisy Morales: A Legacy of Service, Leadership & Impact

The Honorable Daisy Morales is more than a former Florida State Representative — she is a bold and principled public servant whose distinguished career spans federal, local, and state roles, always rooted in her Puerto Rican heritage and unwavering commitment to bipartisanship.

Born in The Bronx, New York, Morales earned an Associate’s Degree in criminology and administration and has devoted over 30 years to public service — including 24 years in U.S. federal government roles with the Department of Homeland Security and the U.S. Department of State.

Today, she continues her mission as Founder and President of the Puerto Rican Heritage Network, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to preserving and advancing Puerto Rican culture, education, and empowerment throughout Florida.

Bipartisan Leadership and Getting Things Done

Throughout her career, Morales has earned a reputation as a soft-spoken yet determined leader who works across party lines to deliver real results for her constituents. In the Florida House, she was known not just as a Democrat, but as a pragmatic problem-solver willing to collaborate to get meaningful legislation passed.

Her legislative record includes sponsoring and co-sponsoring over 100 bipartisan bills that became law. One of her signature legislative successes, CS/HB 45 – Educational Opportunities for Disabled Veterans, was introduced with Rep. Christopher Benjamin. The law provides tuition and fee waivers for disabled veterans attending Florida’s state universities, career centers, and colleges—closing the gap left by the federal GI Bill.

Morales’ bipartisan approach exemplified her belief that effective leadership means putting people before politics.

Trailblazer in Hispanic and Minority Representation

During her tenure, Morales made history multiple times. She became the first Hispanic state lawmaker to join Black colleagues in a sit-in protest on the Florida House floor, taking a powerful stand against the Governor’s congressional redistricting map that threatened to weaken minority representation. Holding a sign that read, “Legislators serve the people. Not your party,” Morales stood in solidarity with lawmakers defending Black and Hispanic congressional districts across Florida.

State Rep. Daisy Morales talks with Florida Division of Emergency Management staff at an event in January 2021. Photo: Florida Representative Daisy Morales (Facebook).

Leadership in Crisis Response

Florida State Representative Daisy Morales distinguished herself as a proven leader during some of Florida’s most challenging times, including the COVID-19 pandemic and multiple hurricane emergencies. Her hands-on approach and decisive actions demonstrated her deep commitment to protecting the health, safety, and well-being of Floridians.

During the height of the COVID-19 crisis, Rep. Morales was the first state lawmaker to call on Governor Ron DeSantis to establish a 24-hour mass vaccination site—a proactive measure aimed at expanding vaccine access, especially in underserved communities within her district. Her leadership helped accelerate local vaccination efforts and ensured that critical resources reached residents most in need.

Morales also played a visible and responsive role during hurricane emergencies, coordinating with state and local officials to deliver aid, share vital information, and connect affected families with recovery resources. Her consistent engagement in times of crisis reflected her commitment to effective governance, rapid response, and community resilience at the state level.

She was also the first elected official in Orange County to be sworn in by Mayor Jerry Demings, the county’s first African American mayor, during her re-election as District 2 Supervisor for the Orange County Soil & Water Conservation District in 2018. In 2014, she made history again as the first Orange County official sworn in by a member of Congress, U.S. Congressman Alan Grayson.

Thanks to the leadership of Orange County Soil & Water Conservation District Supervisor Daisy Morales, drivers entering Orange County from Osceola County now know they’re crossing into a designated Soil & Water Conservation District—this time in District 4.

Supervisor Daisy Morales and Orange County Commissioner Maribel Gomez Cordero joined forces to install two new conservation awareness signs in Commissioner Cordero’s district. The new signs are located on Narcoossee Road near Boggy Creek Road and South Orange Avenue near Mary Louis Lane, each positioned at the Osceola County line. The signs inform motorists that they are entering both Orange County and a Soil & Water Conservation District, highlighting the county’s ongoing commitment to natural resource conservation and environmental stewardship.

This initiative builds on Supervisor Morales’s earlier success in promoting conservation awareness. In 2018, Morales made history by partnering with District 5 Commissioner Emily Bonilla to erect the first two Soil & Water Conservation District signs in Orange County. Those signs were installed along the Orange–Seminole County line, one on Chuluota Road and another on Dean Road, marking the start of a broader countywide effort to educate the public about conservation district boundaries and their role in protecting natural resources.

These signs serve as more than simple markers—they are visual reminders of the importance of conserving soil and water resources and of the role local government plays in promoting sustainability. By raising public awareness through visible, everyday engagement, Morales continues to advance her mission of community education and environmental protection across Central Florida.

Her leadership and representation have served as an inspiration to Puerto Ricans and Latinos seeking a voice in Florida government.

Key Legislative Wins with Lasting Impact

Rep. Morales’ tenure in the Florida Legislature was marked by people-centered policymaking that directly improved the lives of veterans, families, and vulnerable residents. Her legislative achievements include:

House Bill 45 — Provides educational opportunities for disabled veterans. This bill became a national model, inspiring similar legislation in other states. Florida Governor Ron DeSantis held a bill-signing ceremony for six Military bills, including HB 45.
House Bill 213 — Created a Down Syndrome Awareness specialty license plate, generating both funding and awareness for Down Syndrome initiatives.
House Bill 13 — Increased property tax exemptions for widows, widowers, blind persons, and persons who are totally disabled from $500 to $5,000. This legislation provided significant financial relief to vulnerable Floridians.
House Bill 857 (Amended into HB 1347 / SB 1120) — Strengthened regulations on commercial telephone solicitation, protecting consumers from predatory telemarketing practices.

House Bill 855 — Deregulated barber services, creating a streamlined process for barber certification and expanding access to professional licensing opportunities. The law authorizes licensed barbers to operate mobile services, allowing them to shampoo, cut, and style hair outside traditional barbershops, including in clients’ homes or other approved locations.

Representative Daisy Morales introduced House Resolution (8069) designating April 2 as Puerto Rican Heritage Day in Florida. The resolution received support through Proclamations from Governor Ron DeSantis, Orange County Mayor Jerry Demings, and Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer.

Through these efforts, Morales consistently prioritized service, dignity, and opportunity for all Floridians.

Looking Forward: Heritage, Service, and Continuing Advocacy

Today, as the Founder and President of the Puerto Rican Heritage Network, Morales continues to serve her community with the same vision and heart that defined her public office. Her organization promotes education, cultural pride, leadership, and civic engagement among Puerto Ricans in Florida and beyond.

Her legacy is not only legislative—it’s symbolic. Daisy Morales represents unity, humility, and perseverance in the face of division. As Florida and the nation celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month, her story stands as a reminder that leadership built on integrity and community service transcends politics.

Through its spotlight on Representative Daisy Morales, Florida National News proudly honors her Puerto Rican heritage and her significant impact as a Latina leader in public service, conservation, and advocacy.

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J Willie David, III | News@FloridaNationalNews.com