Trade, National Security, and American Prosperity Conference

April 1, 2026 | 8:00 am – Afternoon
The Mayflower Hotel
1127 Connecticut Ave NW, Washington, DC 20036

Trade policy and its relationship to national security is now one of the most contentious issues in American politics, Congress and the administration are debating the growing use of tariffs as a tool of national security, as well as the downstream consequences for both economic growth and American alliances. This conference is designed to provide a serious, nonpartisan forum to discuss and debate those issues as well as possible ways forward. 

AIER is convening a focused audience of congressional and agency staff, economists, and national security professionals for a day of candid discussion. The program is structured to prioritize substance and audience participation. 

Space is limited, register today.

8:00 AM: Registration and Continental Breakfast

9:00 AM: Welcome Remarks and Morning Keynote
Julia Cartwright, Master of Ceremonies
Amity Shlaes

Panel I: Trade and National Security — The Eternal Debate
Dominic Pino, Moderator
Donald J. Boudreaux
Erik Gartzke

Coffee & Networking Break

Panel II: What to Do About China?
Zongyuan Zoe Liu, Moderator
Derek Scissors
Mary Lovely

12:15 PM: Luncheon Conversation and Audience Q&A
Paul Mueller and Michael Faulkender

Panel III: The Road Ahead
Ryan Bourne, Moderator
Theresa Campobasso
Veronique de Rugy

Coffee & Networking Break

3:15 PM: Afternoon Keynote
Samuel Gregg

Please join us for a reception following the conclusion of the day’s programming.