Why do some people argue that neoliberal capitalism isn't a real thing, and what do they suggest instead for a better economic system?

Is there any credible evidence that the general public has changed its opinion of Trump since November 2024, or is it only LW activists and the chattering classes mobilized by tariffs, corruption, career firings, and fascist thugs?
Joseph McCarthy wasn't the paradigm of morality, but was his crusade against communism a net positive for American society?