If I recall correctly, he was talking about Project 2025 a few months ago, back when nobody was paying attention to it. Now that there is heightened scrutiny of what that plan actually calls for, he's denying any knowledge. Plus, he tried to do a bunch of the things in Project 2025 back in 2020, but was tripped up by people telling him they couldn't do things.
Another thing to consider: In 2016, I think we can all agree that Trump was one of the most shocked people that he got elected. He was totally unprepared for taking power, which shows the chaos in the White House at the start (and well throughout) his administration. How many cabinet members did he fire or had to replace in four years? Why were so many of his chosen people denied security clearances? He also didn't seem to have a very solid grasp on how bills become laws, or even a high level of understanding on how the US government works.
That is different this time. MAGA is trying to be prepared for his victory. They want to fill the bureaucracy with Trump loyalists who will do his bidding even if it goes against agency policies and regulations.
Sure, you and the right call it fear mongering and anti-trump propaganda. Of course you would. You know these moves are unpopular with a majority of Americans, and it could be the tipping point for independent voters to vote anyone but GOP, even if they felt Biden was too old. And, as Project 2025 becomes better known, it will only hurt Trump's chances. And there is no use in his denials or pretending to reject it.
And, while I hate to bring up Hitler, I'm sure there were many German's who thought he was all talk when he became Chancellor..