Now I certainly do agree with you about over regulation, overexposure to liability, and bizarre tax structure, but that logic from the experts seems strange. Now another anti-protectionist argument that I’ve heard that I find more plausible is that since our manufacturers use imported raw materials and finished goods to make the stuff they export, protectionism would have a negative effect on exports. Whether it would have a net negative effect on overall production is another question.
I think I probably didn't explain it well. What you typed above probably is closer to what the quote-unquote "experts" ;-) say. I try to back up everything with a source, but I only have a few minutes to type right now. I'll try to search for a source later.