The quote reflects a strategic approach within the Trump administration, where advisers would propose various ideas to the president. This method involved presenting suggestions in a way that allowed the president to feel as if he was independently coming up with these ideas, rather than being directed by others. This dynamic highlights the complexities of decision-making in the White House, where influence and perception are key factors.
In Michael Wolff's "Fire and Fury: Inside the Trump White House," this technique demonstrates the interplay between the president and his advisors, revealing how they navigated his personality and leadership style. The emphasis on making suggestions that align with the president's own perceptions underscores the challenges faced by his team in establishing a cohesive direction while ensuring Trump's ego remained intact.