The next round of NAFTA negotiations begins Friday in Mexico City. The last round ended with harsh words and little, if any, progress on key issues. The standoff between American, Canadian and Mexican negotiators stems from what the U.S. Chamber of Commerce has called “poison pill proposals” from the United States, which Canada and Mexico are unlikely to accept.
As the United States returns to the negotiating table, it’s important to note a surprising post-election trend. Among Trump voters, support for trade has risen dramatically since the 2016 election. This striking surge calls into question just how committed rank-and-file Republicans are to a more protectionist future.