I see this sentiment often, which has afforded me the chance to reflect on it. The hypothetical smarter, shrewder, Trump-like candidate would likely hold less appeal to the party. As it stands, aspiring connivers operate under the belief that they can exert enough control to get what they want, consequences be damned. Essentially, they are gambling that they can act as the ego to his id on matters that they prioritize. A more intelligent candidate would certainly have a higher degree of agency and thus would be of less value to the manipulators. Trump, and those who resemble him, are the most dangerous sort.

This is the best answer I’ve been able to formulate as to why those who present as fools and dunces form the face of the MAGA movement. These people are useful idiots who garner support from interested parties focused on specific goals.