Gee, it almost sounds like you are defending that despotic leadership.
I am perfectly content to be one of the majority of 300 million Americans who thinks that we should be looking out for our nation and its own people's security and well-being. Not risking all on a fool's bet. I don't need to be whispering behind the chairs at the seat of power, as I believe that power comes from the People. Right now, the voice of the People appears conflicted, and confused. And if the People resolve that a Hamiltonian approach would serve them best, then all other, conflicting approaches and their advocates better get the hell out of the way.
Meantime, my "optimistic" libertarian friend, would you leave us with a government which punishes success and hard work, and savings, and innovation? I have always advocated replacing the income tax, personal, corporate and capital gains taxes, with a national sales tax of 15% and a revenue tariff of 25% or so. Plus, I strongly urge revoking China's MFN status, and letting Smoot-Hawley automatically kick in at a 50% tariff against them.
I believe that this fiscal-sourcing switch would have some dramatic effects and would restore American competitiveness across a broad swath of industries, encourage U.S. innovation, pouring back investments here at home...rewarding savings, earnings, and punishing consumption.
My largest concern is that the demand for these healthful changes will come too late to be effectual. It is always better to keep the horse in the barn, rather than try to coax it back in later.