Trade is not a Constitutional issue.
By the Constitution, the Federal government has control over trade. Period, full stop.
Trade is not a “conservative” or “progressive” issue.
It is a straight up economic issue.
Protectionist trade policies have worked very well for the United States in the past.
Free Trade policies have worked very well for the United States in the past.
It depends upon the times and the agreements, and how they are implemented.
It took me a while to understand this, but trade is not a Constitutional issue.
Free trade is great in theory.
One big problem in practice is when one country props up or subsidizes businesses and/or when one country penalizes businesses. If our exports are heavily taxed, that is a barrier to our businesses and an advantage to foreigners.
In principle, I prefer that we not have protectionist policies. In practice, I believe in leveling the playing field.
I think that among honest conservatives, there is some truth on both sides of this issue. I hope that we can find the balance that is right.