Gov’t could help, but Gov’t is also part of the problem.
eg. I am told by people in the industry that it is so difficult for cast iron foundries to meet EPA guidelines, that they are moving offshore just for that reason.
in some cases, profitable factories are moved because they can make more money offshore (eg Carrier)
when a big manufacturing plant closes, there is a secondary effect on all the support industries: tool and die, chemical supplies, raw materials wholesalers, transport... etc.
in a big future war, the USA will need all those businesses to do war production. Right now, too much is being supplied by the likely opponents.
Once America is defeated and taken over by a foreign power, the “right” to free trade and free movement of people and the “right” not to be drafted won’t be worth anything. A conquered people will take what they are given.
Countries that wish to remain free need to be able to defend themselves: manpower and equipment.
bump