Ayn Rand in the novels has 'villains' who bring politicians into power who then decide upon legislation that then protects those 'villains' from cheaper and bet

Ayn Rand in the novels has 'villains' who bring politicians into power who then decide upon legislation that then protects those 'villains' from cheaper and better competition. The 'heros' in Ayn Rands novels embrace competition because they invent new things and know/think they are the best and the best should win. So yes, protectionism as a concept to protect factories from cheaper and better competition is right out of the 'villains' playbook. This is also something that Thiel doesn't understand about Trump. Also Trump supports coal against competition of cheaper energy. Not Trump, but the recent legislation efforts in Wyoming do exactly the same (protecting coal) and I'm sure Trump is at least happy with it. "Trump might be moving the world towards a Galt's Gulch analogue" No Trump is moving the world straight in the other direction. Protectionism is just the first step to protect his cronies (e.g. textile), next moves will be protecting coal against solar, oil/gas against electric cars etc. How did Trump make his money? Not by inventing (e.g. Musk would be a 'hero' in Atlas Shrugged) but by shady deals on casinos, buildings and using the system (tax breaks etc.) for him, like the 'villains' in Ayn Rand novels. So for sure Trump is on the 'villain' side in Atlas Shrugged - if you don't agree, read it again ;-)