It's actually the only way I've seen us successfully beat the fascists. It's been their playbook here in America since the American Fascist Movement first started.
Here, a three parter where they talk about the origins and first "American Fuhrer." He made most his money from donations when he'd show up to "express free speech" on college campuses in full Nazi gear 20 years after WW2. He'd piss people off, get attacked, then use it as a way to get sympathy and support.
The man made the playbook they all still use. "Debate me you coward," was his thing. The only thing that stopped him? Not engaging, media blackout (as much as possible)