More from the OpEd...

... Trump, who named himself the board's chairman for life, predicted it could become "one of the most consequential bodies ever created," and might eventually replace the United Nations. Five months later, the board has produced little beyond a charter and a few security personnel.

The gap between rhetoric and reality illustrates a key feature of Trump's presidency.

Although he claimed he would "govern by a simple motto: Promises made, promises kept,'" in his administration, a promise is often the achievement. It grabs headlines, dominates the news cycle, distracts from setbacks elsewhere, and allows Trump to promote himself.

By the time it's clear how little has changed, Trump, the media and most Americans have moved on. ...