The latest studies suggest the combination of new tariffs and increased trade policy uncertainty create a substantial drag on the economy as a whole: net losses projected for 2020 are between about $500 and $1700 per household. Costs imposed by tariffs go beyond direct dollar-price increases on targeted goods. Because national security is a public good and also an imperfection, trade protection can sometimes be beneficial for a country. ... An import tariff is a second-best policy option.So no, Trumps policy did not improve American national security.
