From what I’m seeinv, his behavior for the past week has been erratic above all else. He’s trying to find a position he can hold that’s both tolerable to him and produces the results he wants (to feel popular and respected and face no consequences). We’re seeing doubling down in some ways and offering concessions in other ways.

Him backing down like this is not at all surprising from what I’ve seen with narcissistic abusers. He’s trying to find a safe position or lie that will let him get back to doing whatever he wants and have his adoring fans cheer him on for it. I strongly suspect if consequences don’t actually come he’ll quit every concession he made, and if they do he’ll fully commit to doubling down.