Robert Zoellick, America's trade representative, who has extensive experience negotiating with the European Union and other key trading partners, has been nominated to be Ms Rice's deputy secretary of state.

ECONOMIST: More sticks, and the odd carrot | The

Representative LUIS GUTIERREZ (Democrat, Illinois): After extensive discussions with the president, I believe we have a health care bill I can vote yes for.

NPR: CBO Figures Show Health Care Bill Would Cut Deficit

In the late 1980s under the Reagan Administration the U.S. Trade Representative Japan Desk head was Glen Fukushima, raised in Japan and southern California, with extensive Japan linkages.

FORBES: Lessons From Japan's Trade Policies