Former presidential candidate Vivek Ramaswamy believes that “America First” is the future direction of the Republican Party.
While “America First” is often associated with tariffs and protectionist policies, Ramaswamy sees two different interpretations of the phrase within the Republican Party.
At the National Conservative Conference, Ramaswamy outlined the differences between national protectionists and national libertarians within the party.
Both groups reject the previous neoliberal consensus, but have different approaches to trade and immigration policies.
Ramaswamy emphasizes the importance of decoupling from China in critical sectors for U.S. security, which may require more trade with allies.
On immigration, national protectionists focus on protecting American workers from competition, while national libertarians advocate for selective immigration based on shared values and national identity.
Ramaswamy rejects the ethno-religious arguments often used in national conservative discussions about identity and emphasizes civic ideals.
While supporting a crackdown at the southern border, Ramaswamy prioritizes national security, national identity, and economic growth in his immigration policy approach.
He advocates for dismantling the regulatory state to benefit American workers and manufacturers, rather than reshaping it for specific objectives.
Ramaswamy warns against creating a right-wing nanny state and emphasizes the importance of not replicating the left’s use of administrative power to favor certain groups.
