Content Warning: This section discusses military conflict, political violence, and humanitarian crises.

Woodward recounts a chance meeting with Donald Trump at a 1989 party in New York City, setting the stage for their first interview. Trump’s comments during that interview revealed his early persona—a mix of ambition, instinct-driven decision-making, and fascination with power and performance. Reflecting on Trump’s unpredictable and adaptable nature, Woodward highlights Trump’s preoccupation with maintaining control and projecting strength. Through anecdotes and direct quotes, Woodward captures Trump’s strategic self-presentation, emphasizing his belief in “go[ing] with the punches” in life and in business (12). Woodward underscores how these traits have remained consistent from Trump’s early days as a real estate mogul and throughout his turbulent 2017-2021 presidency.

The opening chapter recounts the events of January 6, 2021, as rioters stormed the US Capitol, fueled by Donald Trump’s refusal to concede the 2020 presidential election. Amid escalating violence and chants to “hang Mike Pence,” House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy made frantic calls to Trump, pleading for a response to quell the chaos. Trump’s delayed reaction, including a tepid tweet 187 minutes later, highlights his disconnect from the gravity of the attack. Despite McCarthy’s insistence that Trump call