‘Neoroyalism’ and What It Says About Trump

New York Times - WorldCenter-LeftEN 4 min read 100% complete by Patricia CohenFebruary 4, 2026 at 06:01 AM

AI Summary

long article 4 min

A new theory, known as "neoroyalism," has emerged to explain President Trump's approach to global policy and economics. This concept suggests that Trump's views on international relations are similar to those of 16th-century royal families such as the Tudors and Hapsburgs. According to this theory, global economic policymaking is based on personal, family, and business ties rather than national interest or long-term growth. The term "neoroyalism" was coined by two political scientists who argue that Trump's foreign policy is used to advance his own interests and those of his closest associates. This approach has drawn comparisons to crony capitalism practiced by authoritarian leaders such as Ferdinand Marcos in the Philippines and Vladimir Putin of Russia. Neoroyalism highlights the president's imperious style of governing and his disregard for international rules.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Vladimir V. Putin 40% Georgetown 40% Wellesley College 40% Henry VIII 40% Emperor Charles V 40% Ferdinand Marcos 40% Saudi Arabia 40% Abraham L. Newman 50% Stacie Goddard 50% Mohammed bin Salman 60% United States 70% Donald Trump ×1090%

Keywords

neoroyalism 100% economic policy 80% global order 70% personal gain 70% foreign policy 60% crony capitalism 60% global economics 50% political elites 50% international rules 40%