[markedman]

You are obviously very naive and probably don't have much of an educational background in economic theory - and more importantly practice.

The US 'Currently" relies on no one else for food production, but since you obviously do not keep current on economic news, are unfamiliar with the movement to remove barriers to basic food and grain production.

As far as weapons components and weaponry, are you not familiar with the Euro arguments for bidding on defense contracts? And where exactly do you think most printed circuits come from?

[Sabramerican]

So you're referring to even the most minute parts, circuit boards. Just seal the US and not allow the free flow of goods?

I have a query about reconciling it with a conservative ideology.

Conservatives have always found a problem with the Courts understanding of the Commerce Clause, allowing the Government to interfere with interstate trade in the most minute detail.

How does a Conservative believe that the Government can tell a businessman with whom he can do business, from whom he can buy parts? Making such parts unnaturally expensive I count as interference.

Conservative values are, or should be all about Liberty. How do you find a legitimate excuse to the take away the freedom of business to go and do what is best for business?

[hedgetrimmer]

Take nonfood products, such as hides and skins, from the equation, and the United States now imports more food than it exports, according to the trade figures.
--Feds predict farming income to take a dive