Story perspectives

Trump’s Governance: A Modern-Day Neoroyalist Approach?

2/4/2026

Summary

Story summary

A new theory portrays U.S. President Donald Trump’s governance as resembling 16th-century royal families.
The neoroyalist approach suggests foreign policy is driven by personal and business ties, not national interest.
Political scientists Abraham L. Newman and Stacie Goddard argue the administration uses policy to benefit Trump and his associates.
They say this prioritizes their interests over rivals and disregards international norms, reflecting admiration for the British monarchy.

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Story summary

A new theory portrays U.S. President Donald Trump’s governance as resembling 16th-century royal families.
The neoroyalist approach suggests foreign policy is driven by personal and business ties, not national interest.
Political scientists Abraham L. Newman and Stacie Goddard argue the administration uses policy to benefit Trump and his associates.
They say this prioritizes their interests over rivals and disregards international norms, reflecting admiration for the British monarchy.