I mean, it is bizarre, yes. But it’s also terrifying. The undoing and overtaking of the democratically guard-railed structures of law enforcement is one of the last stages in a fascist collapse. After that, there’s basically nothing left.
They’re trying to figure out how to make an armed force that will go out and use deadly force in public on American streets against anyone who’s disloyal to the movement in any way. And, it’s vital to cloak it in a veneer of legitimacy - hence using friendly sheriffs, hence the confusing setup of “State Guards” by analogy with National Guard, but explicitly loyal to a person as opposed to the constitution. And, because a lot of these people will have friends in law enforcement and normal-looking badges and uniforms, and endorsement from the highest offices in the for real US government, the real law enforcement will hesitate to do anything about it, in a way they wouldn’t (as much) if it was a Patriot Front mob in khakis that was “arresting” a Democratic governor or whatever they are doing.
They’re not sure how to do it, yet, and what will work and what won’t. That’s why it’s so bizarre and hamfisted. But they keep trying, and no one’s stopping any of the explicitly seditious efforts which in any functioning democracy would be instantly recognized as the incredible danger that they are. And sooner or later, one of these things they try is gonna catch on and start working.