Unlike politicians who push a pre-set agenda, Trump engages business leaders by asking what their biggest problems are and what he can do to help. This listening-first approach, followed by direct action, builds powerful alliances and is a key feature of his political style.

Creating a new hardware category in a regulated space like aviation requires more than capital; it demands proactive government engagement to write new laws. Archer initiated efforts to establish the regulatory framework for its eVTOL aircraft, demonstrating the necessity of shaping policy for market creation.

Vulcan's product, which ensures administrative regulations align with legislative intent, appeals to both parties by framing its value as restoring the constitutional separation of powers. This high-level, philosophical positioning resonates with both sides' fears of executive overreach, creating a surprisingly large and politically diverse market.

In siloed government environments, pushing for change fails. The effective strategy is to involve agency leaders directly in the process. By presenting data, establishing a common goal (serving the citizen), and giving them a voice in what gets built, they transition from roadblocks to champions.

M&A activity is not constant; it ebbs and flows with the political climate. Administrations perceived as "anti-M&A" can significantly slow deals. Founders looking for a strategic acquisition should consider the current political cycle as a key factor in their exit timing.

The government is no longer just a regulator but is becoming a financial partner and stakeholder in the tech industry. Actions like taking a cut of specific chip sales represent a major "fork in the road," indicating a new era of public-private relationships where government actively participates in financial outcomes.

A former White House advisor noted that the core theories behind major policies are often well-established. The true challenge and critical skill is navigating the complex government process—the interagency meetings and procedures—to translate an idea into official action.

The long-standing American political consensus favoring lower trade barriers has been replaced. Industrial policy, with active government shaping of key sectors via tariffs and investment, is now a durable, bipartisan strategy seen under both Trump and Biden administrations.

Despite expected legislative gridlock, investors should focus on the executive branch. The president's most impactful market tools, such as tariff policy and deregulation via executive agencies, do not require congressional approval. Significant policy shifts can therefore occur even when Congress is divided and inactive.