Donald Trump’s political ascent was built on two foundational issues that resonated deeply with millions of Americans: immigration and trade. These were not randomly chosen talking points, but carefully selected grievances that tapped into a profound disconnect between elite consensus and public sentiment. For decades, a bipartisan establishment in Washington has championed both increased immigration and free trade as unalloyed goods. Immigration and free trade are the keys that can unlock sustained economic growth, innovation, and American global dominance. Yet, beneath this elite consensus, many Americans harbored deep skepticism about both policies, viewing them as threats to their economic security, cultural identity, and national sovereignty.