Possible hopium.
We shall see.
Nota bene: When did the 24 hour clock start?
When did it \really\ start?
I should have addressed that question. Neither When nor Where Patel stated his limited offer was heard. Only the statement.
I presumed TS, but Patel also regularly appears on MIL Anon video sites, Telegram programs, etc., however controversial here.
The strength of all MAGA demands seem to be mostly for the Public Record, wherein Evidence, Witness-Testimony and corroboration can reside.
(See Congressional hearings, transcripts & video.)
Demands (imo) generally arouse interesting reactions, and those reactions are probably also measured for their strength, or veracity and impact.
Hopium is about final impact and as you said that does remain to be seen.