Many observers of US trade flows took heart from the substantial reduction in the trade deficit that took place in 2009. The reason is pretty straightforward: We didn't import as much oil or as many goods and services since our economy was mired in recession. Plants weren't turning out goods and thus were not consuming energy. And millions of unemployed and discouraged workers were not driving to their old jobs. Consumers were saving for a change -- instead of spending their latest withdrawal of home equity on the latest Toyota (smart move). However, the fall in the deficit does not mean that our manufacturing base -- that great generator of jobs and wealth -- is somehow in better shape. It isn't. The great danger here is that the President and his men will decide they don't have to do anything about the 30-year hole that we've dug for ourselves with ill-advised trade policies. In fact, they appear to have decided that already. Where there is no vision the people perish.