U.S. trade policy has always reflected freer trade and protectionist sentiment. Kaplan seems to miss this crucial point because he oversimplifies the process by which trade policy is made. The nature of such protection as well as its endurance depends on the state of the economy, politics, and culture. In contrast with many other nations, authority for U.S. trade policy is divided. The President has power to control foreign policy, but under the constitution, Congress has the power to regulate international commerce and to tax.
Some special interests benefit from open markets and others benefit from protection.
As a result, America has always had a bifurcated trade policy, with efforts to liberalize trade coexisting with protection. This has been true since 1789. Because trade can create both winners and losers. Those who are hurt may deserve temporary protection, despite the costs to consumers and taxpayers. Such protection is accepted by GATT law and considered appropriate.