The quote highlights the paradox of politics where participants often believe they have a chance to win, despite the fact that only one can ultimately emerge victorious. This mindset can drive ambition and perseverance, but it may also blind individuals to the realities of competition. The assertion implies that a strong belief in one's own success is crucial for genuine chances of victory.

However, the author Michael Wolff suggests an exception with the Trump campaign, indicating that it may not follow the conventional rules of political contests. This defies the usual expectation that success is tied to conviction, pointing to the unique dynamics at play in Trump's rise to power. It invites readers to consider how different strategies and attitudes can affect outcomes in politics.