Who’s surprised with President Trump’s “shock and awe” strategy just over one month into his administration? Not me! Nor do I suspect that most consumers of mainstream media.

I never doubted Trump nor his extreme right wing sycophants when they campaigned, boosting this shoot-in-the-foot strategy. Trump never tried to disguise his revenge and retribution strategy, other than lying about his knowledge of Project 2025. Revenge, retribution and loyalty, above all, are all he really cares about. Not only toward his perceived domestic enemies, but our longtime foreign allies as well.

With his surrogate henchman, Elon Musk, their assault on nonpartisan dedicated, expert government employees is short-sighted and dangerous. His goal appears to intimidate and make life miserable for anyone he feels crossed him — unnecessarily disrupting their lives and livelihoods.

Trump’s daily schedule demands chaotic attention. Steve Bannon’s “flood the zone” quote is exactly what we’re witnessing. Promulgating a fuselage of unrealistic, simplistic, insensitive ridicule and/or mean-spirited remarks or actions is expected. Deflection of his and his appointees’ incompetence is the name of the game.

Trump’s rally-goers will be hurt the most by his “shock and awe” strategy. I just wonder if they’re able to recognize it. I assume they will eventually. For the rest of us, don’t get overwhelmed by the chaos, but do continue to pay attention. The stakes are too high to ignore.

Roger Beeley
Scarborough