Micronations

This novel is about the creation of small city-states, typically with only 50,000 citizens who foster and enjoy the fruits of a truly democratic society. This Micronation has no socialist-style welfare programs. Indeed, each resident is screened for self-sustaining talents and wealth. Four island nations are created in order to spread the tenants of a true democracy around the globe. This is done because every Socialist State ultimately fails due to undelivered promises.
The principal character, Matt Flynn, is an entrepreneur, salesman and a former American President who successfully brought the country out of an economic depression created by the Socialists. Together with his business partner, Yousif Latif, a Prince of Dubai, four island utopias are created making personal fortunes for the founders, investors and ultimately Micronation residents.
The ultra-modern metropolises are developed on islands near urban centers for security and work force purposes. The islands are transformed into green environments surrounding gleaming new buildings much like the modern-day cities of Dubai and Singapore. Flynn's invention, the anti-gravity, multi-function Turbopod or T-Pod is the primary mode of transportation, some of which are autonomous. The city's energy sources are solar and wind with virtually no carbon footprint.
A controversial Citizens Processing Center (CPC) screens for applicants who can afford to live there and who are willing to work and contribute to society, even in retirement. A small number of time-limited "self-help" programs are available. Long-term welfare recipients need not apply for citizenship. Before long the life style is so attractive and the list of applicants is so long, that a host country is forced to expand the Micronation to meet the needs of the surging Democratitis.
The novel ends with a poignant scene where the billionaires uncover what really makes them happy.