"Obviously, if there was such a plot, it failed hilariously and spectacularly, and only a conspiracy nut or a fool would hold to it today. But there may be a kernel of truth behind the idea that Trump did not really want or expect the presidency, as opposed to launching another fun (for him), ego-stoking, and publicity-garnering, if quixotic, executive run. Correspondingly, he might now regret the decision.
"Compared with most other candidates, or anybody else, for that matter, Trump had little to gain by becoming president. He was already extremely famous, wealthy, and powerful. In terms of day-to-day comfort and luxury, the White House was a come-down, and let's not even discuss Camp David. Trump's preference for his Florida estate as opposed to the venerable presidential retreat is understandable, considering his circumstances. " . . .