I think he's trying to prove to himself, the nation, and the world, that, as an African-American President, he can do whatever he wants and not a thing can be done to stop him. No one in power will stand up to him.
That's pretty much it. He has really nothing to lose as he sees it. Doesn't matter how any other see it....remember he doesn't think the public "thinks" let alone would revolt against him....and if so... too late to do anything about it. Shrewd behavior all the way for this guy.