As we go forward, we can take a huge breath of relief. The Democrats have outmaneuvered Trump, everything will return to building a healthy nation, and we go where no man has gone before.
Sounds like the introduction to a fictional sitcom, and it is.
I see two avenues ahead. The first is what we’re being shown right now. Congress will fight diligently to accomplish all those wonderful things, while DJT will realize he has lost, sit back, and make a lot of noise. He’ll continue to whine over his ballroom, his Golden Arches with fries, and insist his Oval Parlor is a National Monument, a shrine to him that, by law and executive order, shall never be touched.
This is the avenue we hear most of the bobbleheads currently proclaiming. And it too shall come to pass.
Then there’s avenue two, and this is where it gets tricky. Because, like all serpents, this road doesn’t give you a choice. It’s forked, and both avenues will exist. Only avenue two will be a lot quieter, provided Miller Time can put a muzzle on the Great Leader for a while.
You see, Donald has an EGO issue. He can’t just do something and enjoy the rewards. He has to taunt you first. Like a petulant child tormenting a puppy just to see how far he can push it.
I dare you. I dare you. I double dare you.
And that’s what he’s doing right now. So pay attention. He’s showing his cards up front. He’s never been particularly cagey. Why use finesse when you can just be a bully?
So what’s the surprise?
Well, it’s the same thing as always: total control. His Proud Boys, his Patriots, his ballroom and bunker. Only this time, he may get it piece by piece, by giving in. A concession here, a concession there.
And at the same time, he’s already attacking. It doesn’t matter who he threatens, intimidates, or files lawsuits against. That’s just fair play, apparently. But now that he’s under attack, the threats are coming quickly and loudly. Anyone who threatens his staff with a lawsuit will be dealt with. Yadda, yadda.
Fear and intimidation are the only ways he knows how to make a deal.
The forked road isn’t about options. It’s two paths running parallel, and we’re only supposed to pay attention to one of them.
So pay attention to what he’s asking for in return.
It’s still his fortress of power. He has no plans of going anywhere, and with people like Stephen Miller now serving as his official voice, the I-dare-yous have never been louder or clearer or more dangerous.
