Uruguay pursuing a free trade agreement with China, to the dismay of some of its neighbors, especially Paraguay, which continues to recognize Taiwan. Others are concerned about China’s increasing involvement in Southern American economy and government.

World Meteorological Organization records two new lightning flash records: the longest flash – 477 miles (768 km), over the southern United States, and the longest duration – 17.1 seconds, over Uruguay and northern Argentina.

Uruguay has successfully controlled the COVID-19 pandemic so far, with about 700 cases and 20 deaths.

10/28/19. Early results give incumbent Daniel Martinez of the left-leaning Broad Front the lead over former Senator Luis Lacalle Pou of the National Party. With about half the votes counted, Martinez has 38% to Pou’s 30%. A runoff will be held 12/24, and Pou has the support of candidates Ernesto Talvi of the Colorado Party (13% of the vote) and Guido Manini Rios of the rightist Open Cabildo party (10%). A referendum on establishing a military police force was rejected. Martinez has been president since 2005. The economy has been stagnant, with increased inflation and unemployment. Members of the Senate and the Chamber of Representatives were also elected.

Power is lost in all of Argentina and parts of Uruguay and Paraguay. It is mostly restored by the end of the day.

A bank in Portugal blocks the attempt by the Maduro government to move $1.2 billion to Uruguay.