Washington (CNN) President Donald Trump has rarely been consistent about much of anything when it comes to politics and policy. He's been a Democrat, an independent and a Republican. He's been pro-choice and pro-life. He's favored more gun control and cast himself as the "biggest fan" of the Second Amendment in the country.

Except when it comes to trade. In the battle between protectionism and free trade, Trump has very consistently sided with those who express skepticism about the move toward globalism in all things. The idea of putting America first, and looking out for our country before we worry about anyone else, has long been part of Trump's patter -- way before he ever even considered running for president.

"The American steel, aluminum industry has been ravaged by aggressive foreign trade practices," Trump said in the Roosevelt Room. "It's really an assault on our country. It's been an assault."

Read More