We could easily have a policy of libertarian, free wheeling capitalism within our national borders but be protectionist and non-libertarian when it comes to commerce and trade with other nations. In fact that is how we used to be and tariffs were the main source of revenue for our young Federal Gov’t. Alcohol and tobacco taxes were also important.
These three main revenue streams are what the Feds ran their operations on
We could, but we'd take a huge hit to our wealth and power as a result.
In fact that is how we used to be and tariffs were the main source of revenue for our young Federal Gov’t. Alcohol and tobacco taxes were also important.
We ought to go back to supporting the government solely with consumption taxes, but they should be structured so as not to discriminate against imports or types of goods (I like my microbrews and my single malts, thank you very much!).