Again, I reiterate that I'm talking about the means here, not the end.

But if you really want to hear my opinions, I don't think American protectionism is great. Generally economists agree that free trade is good for the economy. Generally it makes everyone wealthier. A lot of the job loss tacked to free trade is more due simply to advancing technology such as automation and changing demands. This period is similar to that the original Luddites fought against during the onset on industrialization.

Furthermore, American protectionism explicitly weakens our presence and influence in Asia, handing more power and influence to China. China is already moving in with their own version of the TPP to fill the gap. The TPP had severe issues, but we should have fought for a better deal, not abandoning the best chance we've had in years to curb growing Chinese influence and threats to our status as the world's only super power.

For historical precedent, I suggest you look at the nullification crisis in American history.

Edit: Read this. It's a better explanation than I can do. I've seen a far better one on the same sub before, but this recent one can do until I find the other.

Edit edit: This is an idle thought not really related, but it's an interesting historical quirk that the tariff historically was fought tooth and nail by state rights advocates (see before referenced nullification crisis), whereas the Republican Party today is the party that most fights for the powers of the states and yet are also the ones advocating for protectionism.