Trump’s economic nationalism and mercantilism are gaining support with voters.

He has already added hefty tariffs on aluminum and steel imports, and reports indicate that by the end of the week he is setting his sights on China, a campaign trail favorite. 

With his move to block the takeover of an American chipmaker by a Singaporean rival, because of fears of Chinese technology leadership, Trump is poised to act against China over its theft of intellectual property and its trade surplus by adding billions in tariffs to Chinese made products.

Such moves are winning support with American voters, and it is hard to see how this rhetoric doesn't shape the 2018 and 2020 elections. 

Being tough on China makes American voters feel good.