Topic: Phase One

Texas entered phase one of its reopening plan, allowing restaurants like The Lonesome Dove in Austin to operate at 25% capacity. Patrons experienced mandatory temperature checks and were required to sign health declarations before being seated at tables spaced ten feet apart. While the dining experience felt like a return to normalcy, the absence of open barbershops and nail salons remains a visible sign of ongoing restrictions.

Dr. Anthony Fauci appeared on CNN to discuss the expiration of federal social distancing guidelines and the criteria for states to reopen. He emphasized a "gateway" process requiring a 14-day downward trajectory in cases before moving to Phase One. Critics argue that Fauci's influence has granted him unprecedented power over American daily life, surpassing that of elected officials.

Governor Greg Abbott issued an executive order allowing Texas stay-at-home mandates to expire on April 30, 2020. Phase one of the state's reopening plan begins May 1, allowing retail stores, restaurants, movie theaters, and malls to operate at 25% capacity. This state-level mandate supersedes local orders, causing friction with municipal leaders in liberal cities like Austin who preferred a longer delay.

The progression of the U.S.-China trade war is tracked from initial skepticism by Chinese officials to the implementation of heavy tariffs and restrictions on tech companies like ZTE. The "Phase One" trade deal is mentioned, alongside the use of economic pressure to push back against Chinese 5G encroachment.

A promotional event for Google's self-driving cars took place at the Thinkery children's museum in Austin, Texas. Attendees observed the "bean-shaped" prototype vehicles and interacted with Google staff members who indicated that "Phase One" of the rollout—where drivers are trained to take over manually from software—is projected for 2020. The event was characterized as lacking clear marketing direction or public engagement despite the presence of live music and refreshments.