Central Louisiana News

In a joint op-ed penned in Fox News Digital, U.S. Senators Bill Cassidy and Maggie Hassan discussed their recent bipartisan trip to China to meet with Chinese President Xi Jinping. The senators expressed their concerns about the flow of fentanyl precursors out of China and China's unfair trade and business practices that harm U.S. industry.

The senators emphasized the unity among Republicans and Democrats when it comes to addressing the challenges posed by China. They stated, "When it comes to outcompeting China, standing up for our country's values, and maintaining our military's cutting edge, Republicans and Democrats are united."

During their trip, Cassidy and Hassan met with American business leaders in China who highlighted the importance of leveling the playing field for U.S. companies operating in China. They raised concerns about China's unfair and anti-competitive trade practices that target American businesses. The senators made it clear to President Xi that the United States will not tolerate these unfair tactics.

Upon returning home, Cassidy and Hassan pledged to continue pushing for their bipartisan bill, the Strengthen American Competitiveness Against Harmful Subsidies Act. This legislation aims to proactively monitor and address China's use of industrial subsidies and rampant pollution, which undermine U.S. competitiveness.

The senators also emphasized the importance of maintaining the country's economic edge, not only for American businesses but also for national security. They highlighted their role in developing and passing the bipartisan CHIPS and Science Act, which promotes the production of critical technologies, including defense technologies, within the United States. Securing semiconductor supply chains outside of China's control is crucial for national security and job creation.

Another pressing issue that Cassidy and Hassan raised during their meeting with President Xi was China's role in the fentanyl crisis in the United States. They urged President Xi and Chinese Communist Party leaders to crack down on the illicit trafficking of fentanyl precursor chemicals. While President Xi expressed openness to addressing this issue, the senators stressed the need for concrete action to cut off the supply of these deadly drugs at the source.

Lastly, Cassidy and Hassan highlighted the importance of strong American leadership in the face of global challenges. They pointed out that the Chinese Communist Party has shown a willingness to align with autocracies and undermine freedoms and democracy. As conflicts and acts of terrorism occur worldwide, the senators emphasized the need for the United States to stand against evil, support allies, and defend democracy.

In conclusion, Cassidy and Hassan emphasized the opportunity to demonstrate the unwavering determination of the American people to defend freedom and outcompete China by building on the bipartisan progress made during their trip. They stated, "Even though the American people do not always agree on everything, we will always remain united when confronting adversaries like China."

Through their joint efforts, Republicans and Democrats are sending a clear message to China's President Xi Jinping about the importance of addressing fentanyl trafficking and unfair trade practices. This bipartisan unity underscores the commitment of the United States to protect its economy and national security while upholding its values and defending freedom in the face of geopolitical challenges posed by China.

To learn more, click on this link: https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/icymi-republicans-and-democrats-are-united-in-warning-chinas-xi-on-fentanyl-fair-trade