America as a promise AND a question mark
In Long Live America, Mens examines not only the state of America but especially why the country still exerts such enormous attraction. He does this not as a distant commentator but as someone who has been fascinated by the United States since his youth.
"Back then, American love was still very common," he states. This personal fascination forms the basis for an accessible and sharply written pamphlet about a country that continues to intrigue — also for leaders, professionals, and companies closely following developments in the US.
America continues to provide direction worldwide
According to Mens, the core of the story is that America is more than politics in Washington. The influence of the United States extends far beyond elections or presidents. The country still largely determines the course in technology, media, culture, economy, and innovation.
For companies, America remains an important benchmark. Trends around AI, platform economy, entertainment, retail, and digital innovation often first emerge in the US before reaching Europe. At the same time, the question of how stable that American model still is is growing. For entrepreneurs, this is relevant: those who understand American trends early can respond more quickly to new market opportunities, risks, and strategic shifts.
This tension forms the common thread in Long Live America. Mens examines, among other things:
- whether you can still succeed in immigration country America;
- how freedom of speech and civil rights are faring;
- whether democracy can withstand increasing pressure on institutions;
- what role states still play within the federal system;
- and even whether country music still represents the voice of the people.
Thus, the book touches not only on politics but also on culture, identity, and entrepreneurship.
A more personal voice than the usual America analysis
Where many analyses of the United States primarily revolve around polarization or electoral battles, Raymond Mens consciously opts for a broader approach. He also looks at everyday America: the culture, the ideals, and the stories that made the country great.
This makes the book interesting for readers who want to look beyond the headlines. Especially now that many European companies are rethinking their international strategy, technological dependence, and economic position, insight into America remains relevant.
Mens says about this:
"Right now, with the 250th anniversary of America, it felt like the right moment to share my fascination for the country. I want to show that America is more than just the politics in Washington or the president in the White House, but above all a story of culture, history, and ideals."
Familiar voice in the Dutch media landscape
Raymond Mens is a political scientist and has grown into one of the most well-known American commentators in the Netherlands in recent years. He is regularly seen on programs like Vandaag Inside, WNL op Zondag, and Nieuws van de Dag. In addition, he produces the daily podcast America in 15 minutes and gives lectures and theater lectures on American politics and society.
Previously, he wrote books like Long Live Trump and News as a Weapon, in which he delved into Trumpism and the influence of FOX News on public debate, respectively.
With Long Live America, he again chooses a current theme, but now with a broader social and cultural perspective.
Book details Long Live America
Long Live America will be released on July 1, 2026.
Title: Long Live America
Author: Raymond Mens
ISBN: 9789043945967
Price: €21.99
Release date: July 1, 2026
About the author
Raymond Mens is an American expert and political scientist. He gives lectures, theater lectures, and produces the daily podcast America in 15 minutes. Mens is primarily known from Vandaag Inside, but also regularly appears on Nieuws van de Dag, Pauw & De Wit, WNL op Zondag, and other programs. Previously, he wrote books about Trumpism (Long Live Trump) and FOX News (News as a Weapon).
