One of the foundational truths of a overt narcissist is the perpetual manipulation of others. Aside from its outcome, the fact the narcissist cares not except to prevail in the aftermath.

Trump does not have dementia. Trump is cognitively distorted. A high functioning overt narcissist unfettered in a time where half of the nation believes they are of little value [see the Southern middle and lower classes during the times leading up to the Civil War] Alas, the perfect victim to such men who seek power over the other no matter the price. Or cost [ lost soul....] to the other.

As for his sycophants, see the theory of "banality of evil." Or better yet, the nature of power among the powerless before the coat strings showed up. Or even the notion that men with so much to lose always need more of what value is defined as. JD Vance is a smart man. A common man with uncommon abilities who needs more, much more to sustain the need to be valuable. Hillbilly Elegy's theme is that in spades. A rising from the ashes of one's discontent and ever shaking ground to find power from without. A man's journey into darkness so as to find what light remains. Only time will tell while to your thesis about the inevitable, you are spot on. Our time has come.

Lastly, I enjoy your postings. And their wrangling with the winds of fate. While when you have the time, consider a breather around the notions you hold dear. The notion that we deserve this fate. Is it possible we have earned it? The fate is not against us but for us. A time to think critically and not as most, emotionally.