I think it’s truly a con rather than him being a pathological liar. Trump knows how to lay the groundwork for manipulating people. He did it the whole time during the 2016 election.
Once he seen the power he held and that everyone takes him as gospel, he knew he has them in the palm of his hand. This is why he can do and say anything and still be cheered for it.
This is why he kept on and on (since 2018) about the voting process being fraudulent; he conditioned not just his supporters but even republicans. Even those who vehemently opposed him when he was running. He has manipulated his party. It’s what abusive husbands do to their wives.
it’s what dictators do... once you get them to lose trust in normal processes, you have them for good
this is why that coup article is so damn good... it hit the nail on the head