Rockwall Voices Op-Ed
The phrase “America First” is often misunderstood as isolationism. It is not. It is a strategy for economic self-sufficiency, reducing dependence on adversaries, and maintaining global leadership on U.S. terms.
For decades, we have allowed China to dominate supply chains, encouraged corporations to move jobs overseas, and piled on trillions in debt, all while fighting endless wars that do little to secure our long-term prosperity. The time has come to reverse course.
To ensure America’s dominance in the 21st century, we must:
Rebuild Domestic Manufacturing & Energy Independence
- Bring factories and critical industries back to U.S. soil.
- Incentivize businesses to manufacture in America, not China.
- Ensure energy independence by expanding domestic oil, gas, and alternative energy production, reducing reliance on hostile regimes.
→ Lesson from History: The U.S. was most powerful when it manufactured what it consumed. Our dependence on China weakens us.
Strengthen the U.S. Dollar & Financial Control
- Block China, Russia, and BRICS nations from replacing the dollar in global trade.
- Prevent uncontrolled money printing, which fuels inflation and weakens our economic position.
- Expand U.S. financial influence by securing key global markets under American financial leadership.
→ Lesson from History: When Britain lost control of global trade and finance, it lost its empire. We cannot afford to make the same mistake.
Prioritize Strategic Alliances Over Endless Wars
- Instead of military overreach, strengthen select alliances with nations that share our economic and security interests.
- Shift military resources to protecting American interests, rather than acting as the world’s police force.
- Secure technological leadership through partnerships that benefit the U.S. economy first.
→ Lesson from History: The Soviet Union overextended itself militarily while its economy stagnated. It collapsed from within. America must avoid the same fate.
The China Threat: Time Is Running Out
China is playing the long game, using U.S. trade policies against us while aggressively expanding its influence. While America focuses on political infighting and ideological distractions, China is:
- Buying up global resources (energy, rare earth metals, food supplies).
- Locking down global trade routes through its Belt & Road Initiative.
- Expanding its military while the U.S. remains entangled in foreign conflicts.
At the same time, China and Russia are working together to diminish American global power—an alliance that exists because the U.S. miscalculated by alienating Russia while strengthening China economically.
If China overtakes the U.S. economy, it will dictate the future of global trade, technology, and finance—and with that, military and political power will follow. The only way to stop this is through economic strength, not just military presence.
America’s Choice: Power or Decline?
America must adapt, rebuild, and secure its economic power, or we will go down the same road as every fallen empire before us.
✅ Winners in history always had strong economies.
✅ America’s future depends on economic strength, not just military power.
✅ If we fail to act, we risk becoming just another footnote in history.
This is the defining moment of the 21st century. Will America continue blindly prioritizing globalism, debt, and foreign dependence—or will we choose economic self-sufficiency, strategic alliances, and long-term dominance?
The answer will decide whether the United States remains the world’s superpower or fades into irrelevance. The choice is ours.
About the Author:
David Vega is the founder and CEO of Rockwall Capital Group, with over 25 years of experience in business leadership, corporate turnarounds, and financial strategy. He has worked extensively in analyzing operational efficiency, corporate governance, and business valuations. David serves on corporate advisory councils, acts as an executive consultant, and is deeply committed to community development, including board roles with the North East Texas Community Development Corporation and the Greater Rockwall Youth Symphony.
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this Op-Ed are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official stance of The Rockwall Times. We encourage a respectful exchange of perspectives to enrich our community dialogue.
