One of the most disturbing trends in US politics has been the steady decline in support for free and open trade among the American public. Beginning in the 1980s, Democrats began to turn away from their historic support for free trade – a trend that has accelerated today despite former president Bill Clinton’s laudable efforts to combat protectionist sentiments. Alarmingly, rank-and-file Republicans are now joining Democrats in opposing free trade: a new poll published by The Wall Street Journal found Republican voters now believe free trade is bad for the US economy by nearly two to one.

The post-war era of expanded trade has perhaps been the most important factor in promoting global economic growth, rising living standards and job creation. There is no doubt that the globalisation of markets can be disruptive, as US manufacturers and workers face emerging competitors from China, India and elsewhere. America’s response to this disruption, however, should not be isolation and protectionism. This would be a cure that is more harmful than the disease.