The message behind Donald Trump's recent executive orders is clear: he wants to show that this is his country now. He runs the government, and the government will do as he commands. It's a compelling message – except it's completely false.

While Trump has certain presidential powers, like pardoning the Jan 6 rioters or removing federal security protection for Anthony Fauci, John Bolton and others – an act of extraordinary cruelty – he cannot rewrite the constitution. His order to revoke birthright citizenship was quickly frozen by a Reagan-appointed judge. His government spending freeze was blocked by another judge before implementation.

Trump's team anticipated these legal obstacles. Their strategy is to overwhelm the media and flood the news cycle, preventing coherent opposition while maintaining the illusion of Trump's power. This approach mirrors his past tactics. Before politics, he rebuilt his wealth by portraying a powerful billionaire on The Apprentice. After losing the 2020 election, he maintained an image of victory by refusing to concede.

Trump never wanted to be a traditional president, dealing with Congress and court limitations. He wanted to be king. Now he's performing the role of king through media, hoping that perception will become reality.