If Trump can convince everyone that this whole special investigation is just about politics, then an impeachment debate is even more likely to divide along party lines. If it comes to a trial in the Senate, Trump is counting on gridlock to deliver his exoneration.

Twisted though the logic might seem, many Americans look upon the explosion of big money, political action committees and purchased access to decision-makers and wonder if only the already-rich can afford to be independent.

If Trump’s success transfers from politics to governing, his dark and guttural ways will become entrenched and ubiquitous.