The tariff is the protection the wolf gave the lamb.
Protectionism produces political corruption, economic stagnation, and international conflict.
Yet, many people will insist that even though protectionism hinders a nation's ability to feed, clothe, and house itself, the moral gains from protectionism are greater than the economic losses. Every restriction on imports is an attempt by the U.S. government to compel some Americans to pay higher prices to other Americans than they otherwise would have paid. The case for coercion is when it is desired to make them buy dollars at 101 cents apiece. Even when a person does not buy an imported product, the price of the competing domestic product is higher because of the restriction on foreign competition. Trade barriers raise prices, and price hikes have the same effect as a federal decree that some Americans shall no longer be allowed to buy the restricted product.