Or.
President Trump is constitutionally incapable of that type of rational response.
(Just some speculation, I am not a medical professional trying to diagnose a mental disorder)
It's more than just speculation at this point. It's pretty clear that he
cannot act in a sane and rational manner - even when he himself would benefit from it. This entire pandemic response has proven that beyond a reasonable doubt.
One theme that has been clear and consistent throughout this whole mess is Trump's desire to be seen as The Hero. The guy who rides in, gives the orders, solves the problems, saves the world, and receives the accolades of the masses for it.
And the sad part is, he could have actually done all that. He really could have - any one else in his position
would have.
If, back in January, he'd just listened to the intelligence reports that warned him this was coming, he could have acted swiftly to limit the spread of the pandemic. If, back in February, he'd paid attention to the increasing numbers of infected in the US, and started pushing for limiting travel, and encouraging social distancing, he could have restricted the spread of the virus within the US. If, back in March, he'd taken the lead in coordinating the production of medical supplies, he could have limited the impact the virus had on hospitals and old age homes. If he had taken the lead on providing unemployment coverage for people put out of work, he could have avoided a lot of the economic damage. If he'd shown some leadership in squashing rumors and conspiracy theories, he would have significantly decreased the social unrest that we've seen. If he'd taken the lead on non-partisan steps to ensure the safety of the upcoming election, he would have restored at least some faith in the democratic institutions of the United States.
If he'd just done that - not even all of it, even just some of it - he really would have fixed the problems, and been the hero, and
deserved the accolades, almost without reservation.
But he didn't do any of it. The only reasonable conclusion is that he
couldn't do any of it. It's just not in him to take advice, and act in a selfless and charitable manner.