Is it better to be described as a swindler or as a thief?

Definition of swindler: Scammers who con people to make a buck.
Definition of thief: a person who steals another’s property.
Not that I would want to be either one, but it’s a question to ponder. I think perhaps I’d rather be a swindler as, IMHO, I think it would take a lot more brain effort to plan out a successful swindle.

It doesn’t matter much since neither can be trusted.

Between the two, I’d choose thief. It’s a commentary on action rather than character. Seems easier to dispel with facts. Assuming, of course, that I’m neither of these.

Can I be a soundrel, or rogue, instead?

More to the point, what would you call a person who surrounds himself with such types, then appoints them to high government office?

@stanleybmanly “donald”

I would go with swindler too. I think they have more brains than a common thief.

Mr. Ed was the stable genius.

Robin Hood
Dick Turpin
Raffles
Pirates

Swindlers are crusty old spivs with zero charisma, so yeah…do the math (s)