Nothing Wrong With Nationalism [OPINION]

President Donald Trump declares proudly that he is a nationalist. Within minutes, the fake news media and Trump's opponents scramble to find something evil in that. Some suggest it is code for racist or white supremacist. Others are not so sure what it means, but it must be something bad.

Trump is a nationalist, and I suspect that many of you are as well. A nationalist is someone who puts America first. Something that has been at the core of Trump's message since he came down the escalator with Melania in 2015 to declare his candidacy for president.

The thought that someone might want to put America first is abhorrent to the left, which blames America for all of the ills of the world. Remember the Obama world apology tour?

Being a nationalist means butting out of the internal affairs of foreign nations while insisting upon fair trade deals for America. It means demanding that wealthy nations pay their fair share for their defense. It means that America has a right to defend itself and its borders. It means putting our people first while working to improve the condition of all people.

There is nothing wrong with being a nationalist. There is nothing wrong in having pride in who we are and demanding fair treatment for America from the other nations of the world. All nations should put the interests of their people first. Over the next couple of years, you will hear many explanations of what it means to be a nationalist. Most will be fake.

America is the greatest, most exceptional nation in the history of the world. We have done more, given more and sacrificed more than any other people for peace, liberty and the human condition. We have every reason to love and be proud of who we are. And we have every right to put our interests first.

To be nationalists.

Barry Richard is the host of The Barry Richard Show on 1420 WBSM New Bedford. He can be heard weekdays from noon to 3 p.m. Contact him at barry@wbsm.com and follow him on Twitter @BarryJRichard58. The opinions expressed in this commentary are solely those of the author.