What should come first, national security policy, or trade policy? This is an old debate, and one that should never paralyze a nation such as America. The Trump administration has actually made incredible progress thus far to protect and grow American industry. Well-structured and carefully thought-out trade initiatives have resulted in thousands of jobs being reshored, as well as a four-year high in manufacturing activity.
President Donald Trump understands that trade policy is national security policy, requiring a targeted and finely focused approach to maintain strength on both fronts. The administration has already put this approach in action by adjusting Section 232 tariffs on metals used in military equipment to protect national security while maintaining flexibility and fairness to both domestic and foreign producers. That same balanced approach is needed as the administration considers Section 232 tariffs on semiconductors.
