AmericanFirst

AmericanFirst is a United States political advocacy organization that promotes nationalist economic and immigration policies under the banner “America First.” The group states its mission is to prioritize American workers and domestic industries, advocate for stricter immigration controls, and pursue foreign and trade policies that it interprets as advancing U.S. interests.

Origin and scope: AmericanFirst emerged in the mid-2010s amid a broader wave of nationalist and populist movements. It operates primarily as a membership-based advocacy network that engages in public messaging, lobbying, and grassroots campaigns. The organization describes itself as nonpartisan in form, though it has aligned with various conservative and populist political actors.

Platform: Its platform emphasizes economic nationalism, including support for tariffs or renegotiation of trade deals, opposition to multilateral agreements deemed unfavorable, and measures intended to protect domestic industries and workers. On immigration, it advocates stricter border controls and tighter enforcement. In foreign policy, it supports a more restrained interventionist posture and prioritizes national sovereignty.

Activities and influence: AmericanFirst has organized petitions, rallies, and media outreach; it lobbies lawmakers and endorses candidates aligned with its priorities. It has influenced public discourse by framing issues around national interests and sovereignty, though its policy positions have drawn criticism.

Reception: Critics describe the movement as protectionist and potentially xenophobic, arguing that its emphasis on “America First” can blunt commitments to human rights or multilateral cooperation. Supporters counter that the group highlights legitimate concerns about jobs, trade imbalances, and border security.

See also: America First Committee, modern interpretations of America First in policy debates.