president-elect Donald Trump tapped former Senator David Padu as the US ambassador to China it’s a key diplomatic post as America heads toward a possible trade war with the world’s second largest economy Padu is a former businessman who worked as a top executive for American firms helping them Outsource a cheaper production in Asia he even has experience dealing with Communist Party officials though Padu has played down his ties to China since entering politics that background could help him act as a bridge between the White House and Beijing puu’s nomination which needs Senate confirmation suggests Trump may be seeking to balance the hawkish voices on China and his new Administration with more Pro business voices