I don't think they are one bit afraid. Haters got to hate. Stab Trump, then twist the knife just for giggles.
Your supposition may be accurate for the brain washed minions. But you are underestimating the sophistication of their leadership. They are a cynical bunch who do not believe what they profess to. They care about power and money. Hatred, ideology, and “twisting the knife” mean almost nothing to them.
I agree. They are feeling their oats....as my grandmother used to say. They won. They got away with it. They’ll keep pushing until they’re stopped.