In the book "Fire and Fury: Inside the Trump White House," author Michael Wolff recounts the experiences of Steve Bannon, a former naval officer who quickly understood the true nature of the White House. He observed that the iconic structure operated more like a military base than a traditional government office, characterized by its security and strict command protocols. This realization came to him after spending some time in a high-stakes environment where decisions were made under tight oversight.

Bannon's perspective highlights the unusual dynamics within the White House, where the outward charm of its mansion-like exterior masked a rigorous, military-esque operation. This environment shaped the interactions and power struggles among those within, revealing the intersection of governance and military oversight in contemporary U.S. politics. Wolff's insights provide a glimpse into how these elements influenced the functioning of the Trump administration.