Make no mistake about it: Donald Trump's trip to Mexico was a resounding success.

After weeks of scrutiny over his credentials for higher office, his moral standing - even his sanity - Trump needed to restore some sense of legitimacy and strength to his flailing campaign. What better way to do so than to stand, statesman-like, next to the president of Mexico?

Trump played the role to perfection. Subdued and even solemn, he owned the proceedings. Trump chose when and how he wanted to visit Mexico, a country he has insulted and maligned for more than a year. He established the meeting's agenda, laying out a five-point plan for the bilateral relationship in a potential Trump presidency.

Trump even chose who got to ask questions during the brief news conference that followed the usual statements, deftly placing himself on equal footing with Pena Nieto.