He’s dominated American politics for 10 years and counting now. He may not be book smart but he’s a highly talented politician.
That said, I agree with the original statement that Trump isn’t much of a strategist. He tends to go with his instincts(which have generally served him well).
I don't find Americans en masse very bright. Being the richest country isn't a sign of intellect at all, its a sign of conformity to the internalization of capital and it's will. A great circumstance based on proximity during ww2 helped quite a bit obviously. High energy self-exploiting tarts.
I would disagree with the claim his instincts have served him well. What in particular has worked out well? guy is responsible for more debt than any other president, appears to be shrinking the economy, lost jobs last month, is now hated by allies.
He uses business tactics, pressure, power, the media etc.. he is certainly talented there, he is clearly a top notch salesman but he is not an intellectual by any stretch of the imagination. There is no nuance with him, at all. Social media utilizes these very same tactics, sales, messaging, influence and he is a reality tv host, it's those "skills" that put him on top while the rest of the politicians behave like adults. He is perhaps the best influencer ever created, the girls shaking there asses on tik tok have nothing on this guy.