The strategy employed by Trump, as outlined in Michael Wolff's book "Fire and Fury: Inside the Trump White House," was centered around the dynamic relationship between his supporters and critics. Trump, encouraged by Bannon, engaged in behaviors that were sure to resonate with conservative media, while simultaneously provoking strong reactions from liberal media outlets. This deliberate approach created a cycle where increased applause from his base would lead to heightened outrage from opponents.

This formula of political engagement produced a clear narrative: as Trump's popularity surged among his loyal followers, his adversaries became more aggressive in their criticism. This interplay of support and opposition became a fundamental aspect of Trump's presidency, showcasing how he effectively used media narratives to consolidate his power while polarizing public opinion. In essence, the more he was adored by his supporters, the more he thrived on the backlash from those who opposed him.