"It looks as though even real conservatives who advocate for real free trade can't resist economic populism. Hunter is no different than the democrats when it comes to trade. He appeals to class warriors who want the government to raise costs for all Americans in an effort to protect their chosen special interest."
I would like to see a quote that backs that up. If you don't have one, you are making presumptions that are not founded in this or the other articles I have read.
Do you believe that American corporations are giving our country away through free trade agreements? Do you believe that free trade agreements cause corporate downsizing? Do you believe that our 4.6% unemployment rate is a sign that millions of Americans are on their way to the unemployment office? Do you believe our rising incomes and net worth are a sure sign that Americans today have to settle for jobs at fast food restaurants?
If so, you might be a populist who can appeal to the economically challenged. Hunter thinks protectionism can work. It doesn't.
But don't take my word for it. Look at what a conservative commentator had to say about Hunter. Like myself, he approves of everything he sees in Hunter but has concerns over his protectionist leanings.
There is one area in particular where Duncan Hunter departs from the conservative orthodoxy and that's on trade issues. He's neither a fan of free trade agreements like NAFTA and CAFTA, nor does he think we're getting a square deal on trade from China. Although many Republicans will disagree with Hunter on this issue, many Democrats find themselves nodding their heads in agreement with what he has to say.His Trade Position May Be a "Bug" To Republicans, But It Can Be A "Feature" To Democrats.