The Mindset, Beliefs & Philosophy of the Party of Trump

Having authored over 100 books and audio books in the areas of success, philosophy, ethics, diplomacy, history, economics and psychology, I have been closely following the Trump platforms, policies, and presidencies over the last decade.

In recent years, I have decided that this new approach to leadership and government is an enhanced form or “worker based populism” originated by President Andrew Jackson 200 years ago but transformed to a Libertarian-Populist movement that I have named: NWP (New Wave Populism). [i]  NWP is grounded in creative thinking, common sense, pragmatism, efficient government, worker benefits, and libertarianism.

Remember, Patrick Buchanan and Ross Perot tried to make worker populism and efficient government policies work, but Donald Trump is the twice elected President that polished the ideas into policies that are attractive, beneficial and sustainable for working families.

The rise of NWP New Wave Populism has captured global attention, particularly with the election of President Donald Trump in 2016. While the “people’s movement” of populism is often discussed through political, economic, and social lenses, a deeper understanding reveals that the philosophical-metaphysical mindset is a central underpinning of this movement.

Metaphysics—the branch of philosophy concerned with the nature of reality, existence, and the human experience—has shaped the ideologies and actions of the new generation of populist leaders.

For Trump, this metaphysical foundation can be traced back to Trump’s exposure to the "New Thought" environment influencing his worldview and his approach to governance. This paper explores the pragmatic and productivity beliefs that inform New Wave Populism and how they have driven President Trump’s policies and rhetoric, both domestically and internationally.

New Wave Populism: An Overview

NWP or New Wave Populism is characterized by a rejection of traditional elites, skepticism toward established political systems, and a focus on the empowerment of ordinary citizens. Emerging in response to globalization, rising inequality, and perceived cultural and economic disenfranchisement, populist movements have gained traction worldwide.

Leaders like Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni of Italy, President Javier Milei of Argentina, Viktor Orbán in Hungary, and Jair Bolsonaro in Brazil have capitalized on these sentiments, gaining support by promising to restore national identity, prioritize the interests of ordinary people, and reject the influence of foreign powers. In 2024, President Trump’s landslide victory is indicative of the power of ideas and policies putting workers and worker benefits first.

At its core, NWP New Wave Populism seeks a return government to pragmatic, sustainable, and efficient greatness with “common sense” policies of economic fairness, intelligent diplomacy, and cultural traditionalism. For example, undermining women’s sports and injuring female minorities by allowing people to cheat in sports is philosophically flawed and a losing political platform.

These movements often emphasize a “success/sustainability versus failure/fraud” narrative, where “contributing working people” are pitted against the bureaucratic-grifters, freeloaders, and foreign interference.

Trump’s slogan, "Make America Great Again," epitomizes the essence of this efficient and optimistic approach, promising to revive America’s glory days and restore a sense of order, prosperity, peace, equanimity, and national pride.

NWP’s New Wave Populists are conservative-libertarians who are focused on worker benefits which includes less fees and costs along with lower city, state and federal taxes.  Overall, the term tax cuts is a meaningless term at this juncture in history, and worker benefits, less economic slavery, and more creative freedom are the key things that truly matter to workers and voters.

The Voters Seem to Really Hate Fraud, Waste, Abuse, and Lazy Elitist Government Employees.

According to a new December CBS poll, civilian workers and small business owners over the last 4 years have implied that they are severely frustrated with government waste, poor leadership, and mindless spending. Two-thirds (2/3) of respondents want unfair regulations cut and energy supplies expanded, while 75% are calling for elimination of waste, fraud, and excessive spending by government servants.

At the same time, 75% are in favor of tax cuts at the city, state, and federal levels. Many are upset that government managers enjoy free healthcare, generous benefits, and discounts on travel and meals, while the public remains unclear about what many D.C. and federal, state, and city employees actually do to improve the lives of children and families.

The anger stems from the perceived disconnect between these overpaid government workers and their benefits and the lack of tangible results that directly assist workers, businesses, and communities. [ii]

Metaphysical Mindsets in NWP New Wave Populism

“Metaphysical Thought” and “Spiritual Truth” have always played a crucial role in shaping political ideologies. However, in the context of NWP, metaphysical beliefs take on a unique form in the area of transpersonal psychology. The metaphysical mindset underlying this movement is not necessarily rooted in traditional religious dogma but in a virtue or belief system that emphasizes personal empowerment, collective betterment, and the power of belief in shaping reality. [iii] [iv]

At the heart of Trump’s rhetoric is the idea of a “universal truth”—a deeply held belief that resonates with his supporters, creating a shared sense of identity and purpose. This metaphysical view is grounded in the concept that reality is shaped by belief, willingness, willpower, and action.

Trump, a businessman-turned-politician, presents himself as a force of nature who can manifest success through sheer will and determination. His slogan, “Make America Great Again,” is not merely political but metaphysical—it is a call to reshape reality, to reassert control over a world that has grown increasingly chaotic, complex and threatening.

This metaphysical perspective aligns with the teachings of figures like Norman Vincent Peale, who influenced Trump’s worldview. Peale, a minister and self-help author, promoted the power of positive thinking, a metaphysical belief that one’s mindset and beliefs could shape outcomes.

Trump's association with Peale’s teachings during his youth in Queens, New York and his 5 years at New York Military Academy, played a key role in forming his beliefs that success could be achieved through confidence, conviction, intent, and a positive mental attitude. This belief system is a cornerstone of the new Populism: the idea that the collective will of working families, when focused and united, can shape reality to its favor where there is enough peace and prosperity for all.

Worker Benefits and Lower Oppression

NWP New Wave Populists understand that if American workers are over taxed at the City, State and Federal levels at 25-55%, the people can’t compete with companies and workers from the other 180+ nations. In sum, oppressing workers reduces GDP. With over 5 or more key historical stakeholders to any business including: workers, suppliers, owners, the community, and customers, the only stakeholder leftover who can actually lower costs and lower subjugation at this juncture is the local, state, and federal governments.

Thus, the New Wave Populists NWP are 100% in favor of union style negotiating with the government and demanding that the government lower costs, reduce fraud, eliminate massive theft, and stop the abuses of taxation, lawfare, and regulations.

Trump’s Upbringing in the 'New Thought' Environment

Donald Trump’s upbringing played a pivotal role in shaping his metaphysical mindset. Raised in a Christian "New Thought" environment, which is centered around the belief in the power of the mind and focused effort to help shape reality, Trump was heavily influenced by Norman Vincent Peale's teachings on positive thinking. Peale was probably most influenced by Christian ethics, the teachings of Jesus, and Stoic ideas including influences from Epictetus, Seneca, and Marcus Aurelius, Swedenborg, Ralph Waldo Emerson, and Dr. William James. "New Thought" is a philosophical movement that asserts the potential of the mind to transform life circumstances through belief, affirmation, mental clarity and efficient action.

Peale’s influence on Trump cannot be overstated; it instilled in him a sense of personal empowerment, a belief that with the right mindset, any obstacle could be overcome, and any challenge could be met with success.

The idea of "Manifestation is where an individual’s clear thoughts and beliefs bring about physical change which is fundamental to Trump’s worldview. As with any builder like Trump, without a clear plan, everything fails. In this metaphysical paradigm, the power of the individual to shape their reality transcends traditional political systems. It is not simply about economic policies or lawmaking, but about fostering a collective consciousness that can bring about national pride & greatness through sustainability, efficiency, and collective productivity.

This metaphysical approach is reflected in Trump’s political rhetoric and his promise to restore America’s former greatness by tapping into the powers of the American workers and working families. Never forget that populists such as Governor Huey Long and President FDR Roosevelt captured this populist energy in the past but their support was mostly from citizens who were unemployed, underpaid, and who needed jobs. Trump has transformed his political party into the party of the working family and forgotten American. Amazingly, 89% of counties shifted toward Trump in 2024 while Trump’s policies won the popular vote, the Senate and the House. [v]

Productivity and the People’s Populist Focus on Tangible Outcomes

Trump's Populism prioritizes productivity as a key element of his domestic policies. The core idea is that government should create an environment where individuals and businesses can flourish, driving economic growth, job creation, and prosperity, rather than simply regulating or intervening. Trump's administration embodied this focus through initiatives like tax cuts, deregulation, and economic sustainability, which aimed to boost American businesses and reduce foreign influence. These policies were designed to enhance economic productivity and ensure that the benefits reached the working class.

Domestic Impact: Populism as a Metaphysical Revolution

Trump’s presidency was defined by policies reflecting his belief in the power of personal will and national unity. His “America First” doctrine emphasized reclaiming national identity, sovereignty, and power—politically and economically. Rooted in metaphysical ideals, this philosophy stresses that America’s future is shaped by its people, who can create their own reality through collective action.

In practice, this led to policies aimed at reshaping the economy, reducing dependence on international trade, and increasing self-sufficiency. Trump’s tax cuts, deregulation efforts, and “America First” trade policies embodied the idea that national prosperity is driven by the will of the people, not external influences. His populist approach highlighted the power of the individual, positioning Trump as a leader in tune with ordinary citizens' needs, willing to challenge the establishment to meet those needs.

International Impact: The Metaphysical People’s Movement on the Global Stage

Internationally, Trump’s metaphysical populism took on a global dimension. His “America First” policies were not only a reflection of his domestic agenda but also a metaphysical assertion of national sovereignty against the forces of globalization

By prioritizing American interests over international agreements, Trump sought to recalibrate the global order, challenging long-standing alliances and trade relationships that were seen as detrimental to American sovereignty.

This metaphysical people’s movement was evident in Trump’s approach to international relations. His withdrawal from the Paris Climate Agreement, the Iran nuclear deal, and his approach to NATO and the United Nations reflected his belief that America’s greatness could only be achieved by rejecting the influence of global elites and restoring national sovereignty.

In this context, Trump's foreign policy was not simply about political strategy; it was about reaffirming a metaphysical belief in America’s destiny and role in the world, and in the collective will of the American people to shape that destiny.

Trump’s Populism is Common Sense and Rejects Stupidity

The New Wave Populism represents a political movement focused on advocating for better treatment of families by the government, with priorities such as empowering education, supporting American workers, ensuring safe streets, and more. The movement is staunchly opposed to crime, child sex abuse and trafficking, murder, and suicide. The people have spoken, voting for the policies championed by Donald Trump in hundreds of speeches over the last nine years, which include:

• American job creation
• Quality, safe schools
• Safe streets and workplaces
• Fair trade and immigration policies
• Rebuilding America First
• Financial sustainability
• Fair taxes and working conditions
• Business-friendly laws to attract global investment
• Fair treatment of veterans
• Fair competition in sports
• Affordable healthcare for women and families
• In-state tuition for all
• 100% tax deductions for child care and education expenses to increase productivity
• Fair corporate tax rates to increase wages for employees
• Civil rights and victims' rights
• Elder care and justice for all citizens
• Sustainable government policies
• Protection for farmers and the environment
• Rejection of any form of genital mutilation
• Commitment to peace in Arabia and around the world

The NWP also supports the modernization of NATO, NAFTA, and improvements to the TPP. A U.S. commission should be established to update immigration policies for the 54 nations in the American Hemisphere and beyond, addressing the broken asylum and refugee rules. Energy independence is a key priority to strengthen national security and promote peace and prosperity.

Additionally, the movement opposes racist and bigoted groups, especially when these same groups such as the Confederate Democrat Party and many institutions in the USA have never apologized for slavery, segregation, or Jim Crow which lasted for over 200 years of brutal oppression against people of diverse ethnicity regardless of color.

Conclusion: The Metaphysical Future of Populism

The rise of NWP New Wave Populism, as exemplified by President Trump, is deeply rooted in Christian New Thought, metaphysical teachings, virtue ethics, and Transpersonal psychology. By embracing the idea that convictions, intentions, and effective-efficient action shape reality, Trump and other new populist and libertarian leaders have tapped into a powerful force that transcends traditional political ideology.

Through rhetoric that emphasizes the power of the individual, the willingness of the people, and a return to a sustainable and powerful greatness, Trump’s populism reflects a metaphysical worldview that resonates with millions around the globe.

As NWP New Wave Populism continues to evolve, it will likely remain influenced by these philosophical and logic based principles. Whether in the form of sustainable policies, economic self-sufficiency, or political revolution, the belief in the goodness & power of collective society and the shaping of reality through quality thoughts and deeds will remain a central tenet of this movement.

Understanding the metaphysical underpinnings of the new libertarian-conservative-populism not only helps explain its appeal but also provides insight into the future trajectory of global politics in an increasingly complex and interconnected world.

After 4 years of complete disaster, wars, hyperinflation from (2021-24) along with record crime, drug death, suicide, almost anything is better than the failed leadership of the last four years. Many note that this country would have been better off with a president doing NOTHING over the last 4 years as the Biden, Harris and Pelosi policies made everything worse from education and inflation to crime.

Even the stock market did not keep up with inflation under Biden while the relative happiness and buying power of seniors and those on social security were crushed and reduced by roughly 30% in the last 4 years under Biden and Pelosi. Therefore, Americans should be prepared to see better economic data all around as there is nowhere to go but up. Crime will go down, criminal immigration is down 93% already, and fuel prices are already down 25% in many places in the USA. [vi]

Much of this improvement in the USA over the last few months is simply the “confidence effect” as voters are at peace with “common sense” back in the White House and DC with President Trump, VP JD Vance, Speaker Johnson, Leader Thune and Leader Scalise.  

Eliminating fraud, waste, and modernizing government through technology is no simple task. As Senator Kennedy remarked this week, "When you trim the fat, pigs squeal." The America First policies and Avant-Garde New Wave Populism may be disruptive and revolutionary, but most recognize the need to act in order to save Social Security, preserve Medicare and Medicaid, and restore our nation's health and greatness.

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Commissioner George Mentz JD MBA CILS CWM® is the first in the USA to rank as a Top 50 Influencer & Thought Leader in: Management, PM, HR, FinTech, Wealth Management, and B2B according to Onalytica.com and Thinkers360.com. George Mentz JD MBA CILS is a CWM Chartered Wealth Manager ®, global speaker - educator, tax-economist, international lawyer and CEO of the GAFM Global Academy of Finance & Management ®. The GAFM is a EU accredited graduate body that trains and certifies professionals in 150+ nations under standards of the: US Dept of Education, ACBSP, ISO 21001, ISO 991, ISO 29993, QAHE, ECLBS, and ISO 29990 standards. Mentz is also an award-winning author and award winning graduate law professor of wealth management of one of the top 30 ranked law schools in the USA.Mentzenborg is just a term of art to describe the theory and process by George Mentz JD MBA ChE. CWM is for Chartered Wealth Manager ® and ChE Chartered Economist ® is a credential for economics professionals.