McMurphy’s motives are questioned by the group, prompted by the ideas planted by Nurse Ratched. Their suspicions are confirmed, however, when McMurphy asks Bibbit for extra money to pay for Starr’s visit, and he tricks the patients into betting that Chief can’t lift the control panel. The patients’ perception that McMurphy is always “winning” eventually leads to McMurphy’s downfall.
McMurphy’s response to Chief’s comment that he’s always winning indicates that his rebellious behavior is taking its toll on McMurphy, which is underscored by his defending George from Washington in the showers.
McMurphy physically defends George, knowing that the other aides will come to Washington’s assistance. Describing the “helpless, cornered despair in McMurphy’s voice,” Chief indicates that McMurphy is trapped into defending George and has no choice.
