I visualize an “offer he can’t refuse” as being an offer to let him retain his life or the lives of his family members.
Indeed; and when the 'promise' is a threat. Yes, found myself wondering; how many children; grandchildren and wondering if any of their pets; had yet to disappear. Imagine; going against this self-ordained, power vacuum.
Which is why; those who say "IT can never happen here"; are wrong; so very wrong.
'IT' happens, folks.