Source: The Dispatch
by Scott Lincicome
“Even the most committed free marketer will readily acknowledge an exception for national security. Trade should generally be free, for example, but you’ll rarely see free traders opposing government subsidies to and/or restrictions on defense-related goods like tanks or fighter jets. We’re always quick to add, however, that security exceptions should be limited, transparent, and well-justified, and that policymakers and the public should still scrutinize claims that X or Y is needed on national security grounds. Indeed, that national security is an exception granted by stalwart free marketers also means it’s ripe for abuse by those seeking a government-aided advantage over their competition, customers, or suppliers.” [editor’s note: If you “acknowledge” an “exception” for “national security,” you’re not a free marketer at all, let alone a “committed” one – TLK] (12/18/24)
https://thedispatch.com/newsletter/capitolism/the-last-refuge-of-the-politician/