A man doesn't need a masters degree in economics if he walks into a store and sees a majority of the items on the shelf are imported. Common sense tells him why he doesn't have a job. The economists, importers, and politicians have peddled "Free Trade" as the best cure since penicillion for the economy. It is a great deal for them as they pad their bank accounts and campaign chests. The cure is whats lacking. The symptoms persist and worsen. We are feeling that giant sucking sound Ross Perot warned us about decades ago. The poster child for free trade was Caterpiller. It's boom in sales to developing nations to improve their infrastructures was a assurance of profits for all. However we must not forget the lessons of Japan. After building them up after the war, they now hold a considerable share of the American market. What happens when these developing nations build their infrastructure, build their factories, and go from customer to competitor?

     The politicians and economists will tell you talk of tariffs are "protectionism", and that is somehow a dirty word to be avoided at all costs. It is honorable to protect your country, your family, why not your job? The solution is obvious. Under our former trade policies the American economy was the envy of the world. Most Americans had jobs, homes, and were realizing the American dream. Of course we still had problems, not everyone received these same opportunities, but other than a few short spikes the unemployment rate hovered around three to four percent. The fact is "Free Trade" between unequal economies, is like boys trading baseball cards, and one getting stuck with all the cards no one else wanted. The politicians say free trade provides jobs. We trade many higher paying manufacturing jobs for a few lower paying sales and distribution jobs. Those politicians might be well educated but they sure make lousy horse traders! How long does America have to suffer just because the politicians are unwilling to admit they may have been wrong. If the economists were so sure of themselves, how come they didn't see these events beforehand and now can't seem to provide a solution? Americans must demand their government turn this train around 180% and head back to sound and proven trade and fiscal policies!