The core message of the quote emphasizes the belief that the construction of a border wall was integral to Donald Trump's political identity. It suggests that without the wall, Trump's narrative and the issues that defined his presidency, particularly on immigration, would lack substance. The wall became a symbol of his approach to governance and his campaign, illustrating a key aspect of his platform.

This perspective is explored in Michael Wolff's book "Siege: Trump Under Fire," where Wolff delves into the complexities of Trump's administration and how deeply the border wall resonated with his supporters. In essence, halting immigration through the wall represented not just a policy but a foundational story that shaped Trump's appeal and commanded attention throughout his presidency.