For a century — from Charles Lindbergh to today — “America First” has conjured images of antisemitism and isolationism. But the term’s connotation is based on historical context, not the precise meaning of those two words.
So my question is: What should putting America first really mean? I would argue it means embracing the values, norms and institutions of American democracy. It means defending the Declaration. The Constitution. The rule of law. And it literally means prioritizing those things over other pursuits. In this regard, it is both patriotic and commonsensical.
This isn’t to suggest that you shouldn’t care about other objectives, such as helping foreign countries (militarily or through aid). It simply means those things are contingent on, and subordinate to, conserving the republic — and our freedoms here at home. In other words, you must put on your own oxygen mask before helping others.