What you did seem to forget is that Bush 41 was replaced by a Democrat who turned out to be one of the biggest free-traders Washington has ever seen. If you think a protectionist candidate will get anywhere near the White House in the near future, you don't understand national politics very well.
I understand that "Americans" will punish the party in power. Bush has had two terms. I suspect if things don't change there will not be another GOP President for some time to come. Arrogance comes before a fall my friend!!!