Second, where does it end? Once you start protecting one industry under the national defense excuse, they'll all scream for protection.
Third, and perhaps most important, the interdependence gained through trade is our best defense! As Bastiat pointed out nearly two centuries ago, countries that trade with each other have an economic deterrent to fight each other (war is an extremely costly endeavor).
Fourth, protectionism invites a bigger role for government (which it gladly accepts). That means less individual freedom and more dependence on government.
Fifth, the United States has the most defendable position on earth. We are surrounded by two oceans and two friendly neighbors, account for 40% of global military expenditures, and have an arsenal of nuclear weapons that can wipe out mankind many times over. We also have one of the highest gun ownership rates in the world, a second line of defense.
Imho, neutrality (which the founders advised) and free trade would make us far more prosperous AND secure.
~ Kevin Duffy, Facebook post, October 18, 2021
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