Since the beginning of Trump’s presidency, much anger and criticism have dogged him incessantly over his campaign promise to build a barrier along the southern border between Mexico and the United States. Despite intense partisan efforts to stop this, Trump may now be able to fulfill this promise; however, it will come at a dangerous price that would define his presidency.

This opportunity comes from the potential use of the declaration of a State of Emergency. By doing this, Trump gains emergency powers that would allow him to order the construction of a wall without the approval of Congress. Sounds good, right? Well, the problem here lies in the consequences of going through with this strategy. Doing this would essentially lend credence to the criticism that Trump likes to defy Congress.

However, this act of defiance against Congress could be what both defines and secures his presidency. If Trump uses his emergency powers to build the wall, this fulfillment of his main campaign promise could both bring moderates over to his side and secure his voter base. But this is still a massive risk for President Trump. If he goes through with it and the American people see it as a rebuke against Congress for not going with him, then his presidency is done. He will not be re-elected. But if this act is received well, then he will most certainly have a chance at re-election.

This is a risky move, a true political gamble, but if Trump plays his cards right he might just win it big. The prize: a second term.