Critics on the right point to his protectionist trade policies and brand of populist politics. And some Libertarians, such as Detroit Today guest Shikha Dalmia, also question whether Trump’saggressive stance on immigration is consistent with conservative ideals.
Conservatives and Libertarians have had a mutual “conservatarian” alliance, as Dalmia calls it. But over the last 15 years — since 9/11 — Dalmia says the alliance has been “uneasy”.
Libertarians were originally attracted to the GOP’s stance on taxation and spending policies, limited small government, and fiscally conservative, free market agenda. But they have always had differences in terms of social issues and foreign policy positions.
Trump has been notorious for his anti-trade policies. Dalmia calls him a “protectionist on steroids.” Trump’s proposed immigration restrictions have also caused concern of a return to a police state to enforce the deportation of 11 million people. As a Libertarian, Dalmia says, “There is nothing to like from Donald Trump”.
