The method in the madness: Why Trump wants you to think he's crazy
President Donald Trump said he could shoot someone on Fifth Avenue and not lose a single voter. The press called it hyperbole. His opponents called it proof of insanity. His supporters called it Tuesday.
TL;DR
- Trump's "shooting on Fifth Avenue" comment was not hyperbole but an explanation of his power theory: convincing everyone he doesn't play by rules.
- He weaponizes absurdity, making shocking statements not for policy but to demonstrate fearlessness and a willingness to say anything.
- Constant contradictions confuse opponents, who exhaust themselves trying to find a consistent belief, allowing Trump to move on.
- Embracing the label of "crazy" disarms attacks and allows him to remain on offense.
- Democrats' strategy of proving Trump's unfitness fails because it misunderstands his appeal to a base that distrusts institutions and media.
- Trump's plan involves shocking statements, constant contradiction, embracing attacks, exhausting the opposition, and winning.