Gov. Kaine Warns against Protectionism

Virginia’s Gov. Tim Kaine has a message for his fellow Democrats on the subject of trade: protectionism is for losers.

In an interview with Bloomberg News that was published this morning, Kaine said he disagreed with members of his party who criticize globalization and trade agreements such as NAFTA. Their attitude displays a “loser’s mentality,” Kaine countered, adding that, “The only way you'll succeed [in the global economy] is by being an aggressive competitor rather than trying to hoard your dwindling assets.”

As I’ve argued elsewhere, the Democratic Party’s embrace of Lou Dobbs-style populism against trade betrays the party’s historical commitment to competition and internationalism. For its own and the nation’s good, party leaders would be wise to listen to Gov. Kaine’s advice on trade.