There is that side of the EU. But, aren't trade restrictions actually increased under the EU. For example, I remember reading about how the EU was forcing cheese makers to stop calling a certain cheese by its French name (I can't remember which) since it wasn't made in that region? It seems to me that the EU is taking away certain restrictions but imposing many restrictions on others.
Also, sadly some Americans who follow EU issues closely but through hackneed news sources like talk radio are influenced by End Time fundamentalist theories that the EU will be the land of the Anti-Christ so it also distorts their view of the real situation/issues faced by the EU.
One greek comentator is saying that this should have been a europe wide vote on the exact same day done by all citizens of europe. THAT would have been a true european vote.
Other comentator is saying that europe must be a collection of treaties and agreements. He also said the EU must be DIPLOMATICALLY as one.