Inside Trump's Head How Trump Secretly Knifes Cabinet Suck-Ups: Wolff
18 snips
Dec 5, 2025 
Michael Wolff, a prominent author and journalist renowned for his insights on modern American politics, joins Joanna Coles for a riveting discussion. They delve into Trump's unpredictable behavior, driven by a mix of boredom and a need for excessive flattery from aides. Wolff sheds light on failed political strategies, including the Venezuela debacle involving Pete Hegseth, and critiques the competence of Trump's inner circle, coining the term 'moronocracy.' The conversation also explores Kushner's controversial ties with Russia and the risks of firing underperforming cabinet members.
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Flattery And Fury Drive Trump
- Michael Wolff argues Trump is driven primarily by flattery and fury rather than long-term strategy.
- When those stimuli fade, Trump becomes bored and less capable of managing complicated, drawn-out politics.
Praise Escalation Creates Habituation
- Wolff compares Trump's need for escalating flattery to drug tolerance requiring ever-greater stimulus.
- Courtiers' maximum groveling still leaves Trump bored because he quickly habituates to praise.
Enemy-Driven Engagement
- Wolff says Trump requires an enemy and theatrical fury to stay engaged.
- Without a high-stimulation political tempo, Trump risks listlessness as administrations enter slower, procedural phases.
