Too bad the author is “ a former Congressional staffer and geopolitical analyst” with zero military experience.
CVNs project massive power, rapidly, and can both deter and significantly degrade an enemy.
Not all Ford class will be $13 billion, as the first in class is always the most expensive.
Ultimately, the US has a capability no other nation has (times 11), which is to put 70 fixed wing aircraft on an enemy’s front door and provide devastating fire power on them. Also, if you were ever a ground pounder in need of air support, you would be glad a carrier was nearby.
BTW, my experience? I’m both prior service and helped build carriers and submarines.
You are fighting the last war—understandable—every general and admiral does it.