GONYK wrote:Clyde_Style wrote:GONYK wrote:
I don't think it's a misapplication. 
If she doesn't pull the trigger, then she's selling her base a bill of goods. A fantasy that she knows won't happen.
That's not materially different than Hawley and Cruz, strictly in terms of a political tactic. 
Obviously, the actual aim of what Hawley and Cruz are purportedly for is much worse.

I'd use grandstanding instead
 
I'd use less severe language if the stakes weren't so high. Something 
needs to happen here. Anything performative is also counterfeit. 
If you disagree, I understand.
 
Not disagreeing about the urgency or the stakes, just quibbling on usage. Grifting implies an illicit reward for taking what does not belong to you, especially from gullible prey, and I see no real application in this situation.
Trump's campaign fraud is a perfect example of grifting.
Grandstanding is more accurate in terms of your application since it implies showboating of dubious intent, though not necessarily criminality which is what grifting is.