Having failed to convince fellow Republicans of the merits of comprehensive immigration reform, President Bush now faces the even more difficult task of defending free trade against protectionist Democrats.

A tide of populism, protectionism, nationalism and xenophobia is washing over the country, fueled by right-wing radio talk-show hosts, CNN firebrand Lou Dobbs – and legitimate concerns that U.S. workers are falling behind in the global struggle for jobs and good wages.

Anti-globalization is a worldwide phenomenon, in fact, that’s being exploited by populist demagogues such as Venezuela’s Hugo Chavez, whose influence is spreading in Latin America.

Even though his influence is at its all-time lowest ebb, Bush somehow needs to mount a campaign to convince Americans that their continued prosperity depends on an open world-trading system.

Election exit polls confirmed that the country generally supports Bush on immigration – 57 percent of voters said illegal workers should have a chance to stay in the country – but other polls indicate Americans are fearful about trade.

A Gallup Poll in April showed that by a margin of 65 percent to 30 percent, Americans believe workers are “mostly hurt by increased trade between the United States and other countries.”

Last July, the House passed the Central American Free Trade Agreement by a mere two votes, with only 15 Democrats in support. That history bodes ill for Bush’s upcoming trade agenda, including renewal of “fast-track” negotiating authority and the already negotiated agreements with Peru and Colombia.