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The article focuses on the decision of the U.S. House to grant permanent normal trade relations with China. In exchange, China has sharply reduced its restrictions on American products according to the rules of the World Trade Organization. With this decision, China will have a freer hand to oppress its people, threaten its neighbors, and vex the U.S. Some people are arguing that trade relations with the U.S. will make China more dependent on the U.S. Brink Lindsey, a trade-policy analyst at the Cato Institute, concludes that mercantilist rhetoric cannot advance free trade in the long run. In this deal, the Chinese reduced a lot of tariffs, while Americans "lost" almost nothing.

The article covers issues related to American politics and economics as of August 1997. Economic forecaster Kurt Karl says that he is predicting a balanced budget by 1998, but only if there is no budget deal. Washington Representative Jennifer Dunn and Ohio Representative Deborah Pryce have been selected by U.S. House Republicans for leadership positions. "San Francisco Chronicle" reports that San Francisco, California is likely to pass new environmental rules that contain provisions about mandating fruit trees in every yard, creating auto-free zones, and ending free parking for workers.

The article discusses issues related to the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA). There are several concerns regarding NAFTA, including its effect on the U.S. industry. Concerns are also raised regarding the benefit of NAFTA to the U.S. economy and consumers. Debates are on going for the supporters and opponents of NAFTA. The "National Review" is committed to present to the public the answers to questions about NAFTA. Only then will it be able to make its own position on whether it will support or oppose NAFTA.