Fast forward to me in 2029 keeping costs down.

Saying he's prepared to be a metaphorical wrecking ball is not the same as saying he doesn't always chicken out. When it comes to taking a stand on anything you can always rely on him chickening out and taking the option least resistance. He's more than happy to ensure that his minions are blamed for his actions as long as he isn't personally affected. The whole Epstein saga is a classic example. Sow fear, doubt and uncertainty then, come crunch time, let his Muppets take the fall.