Bold Action, Exploiting Weakness, and Ambitious Plans for His First Term

Donald J. Trump, surrounded by his hard-right allies, sat at the head of a U-shaped table in the white and gold ballroom of Mar-a-Lago. It was a Friday night, just 10 days before his inauguration. Mr. Trump addressed the couple of dozen members of the ultraconservative House Freedom Caucus, outlining his vision for his impending presidency.

The soon-to-be 47th president declared the Democrats to be damaged, demoralized, and disorganized, according to two individuals present at the meeting. While acknowledging that "sometimes a wounded animal is the most dangerous," he expressed his desire to capitalize on their weakness. He emphasized the need for bold action.

Mr. Trump's plans for his first term included an ambitious legislative agenda, potentially involving a single, comprehensive bill. He also expressed interest in brokering a deal to end the conflict between Russia and Ukraine, potentially fulfilling his long-held desire for a Nobel Peace Prize. Additionally, he discussed acquiring Greenland, the Panama Canal, and Canada for the United States. He also insisted to an advisor that he would continue signing executive orders on Inauguration Day "until my hand breaks."

Through these actions, Mr. Trump signaled his intention to begin his presidency with a display of strength and decisiveness. He aimed to capitalize on the perceived weakness of his political opponents and push forward his ambitious agenda.