Kapitel 244: Chapter 244: Accountability
Johnson received Hardy's support with great appreciation. It was the most significant backing he had received since announcing his candidacy. The President recognized that Hardy's support came with expectations, and he was prepared to reciprocate, as was customary among U.S. presidents.
Hardy returned to Los Angeles by private jet overnight. Johnson, buoyed by Hardy's substantial support, began making plans. He directed the White House Office to prepare for his appearance on the Elaine Tonight Show and arranged for a large-scale national speech tour. Johnson also planned a White House reception to boost his campaign and conduct a fundraising event.
Upon his return, Hardy wasted no time. He summoned ABC TV director William Fox and Irina.
"William, I want the documentary production team to create a film about President Johnson. Focus on his contributions in military, domestic, diplomatic, and economic arenas. The White House will provide the script, and we'll source footage from the National Archives," Hardy instructed.
William Fox, understanding the significance of the task, nodded in agreement.
Irina, known as Elaine on her show, was also given instructions. "Elaine, President Johnson will be joining your show soon. Handle the interview preparations and ensure everything runs smoothly," Hardy said.
Elaine's excitement was palpable. "The President on our show? That's incredible! I'll make sure everything is perfect."
The documentary was produced efficiently, covering Johnson's accomplishments from his first days in office to the present. The film was well-received, airing in three parts over consecutive days. It provided viewers with a deeper understanding of Johnson's presidency, countering negative portrayals from his opponents.
Elaine's show featured Johnson, who answered audience questions with wit and charm. The show's success was evident, with millions of Americans watching and a notable shift in public perception toward Johnson.
Following the show, Johnson held a fundraising dinner at the White House, inviting supporters and prominent figures. Hardy's contribution of $2 million was the largest of the night, accounting for a significant portion of the total raised.
However, the repercussions of Hardy's actions were swift. That evening, Hardy received a call from Amadou Giannini, the chairman of the California consortium and Bank of America.
"Hardy, you're being reckless. Supporting Johnson without consulting anyone? The California consortium's strategy was to back Dewey. Dewey's victory would have been advantageous for us," Giannini said, his voice tinged with frustration.
Hardy remained composed. "I understand your concerns, Amadou, but my support for Johnson is based on my own judgment. The future is unpredictable, and I believe Johnson has the potential to lead effectively. If you have reservations, we can discuss them further."
Giannini was not pacified easily. "You're acting as if you're invincible, but this could backfire. Be prepared to face the consequences of your decisions."
As the call ended, Hardy reflected on the gravity of his choices. His support for Johnson had made waves, and while it was a bold move, it also invited scrutiny and potential repercussions from powerful stakeholders.
Kapitel 245: Chapter 245: Can’t Find 3 Countries
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"Hardy, you're being reckless," Giannini said, frustration clear in his voice. "The California consortium's strategy for this election is to support Dewey. We're aligned with the Republican camp, yet you've gone ahead and backed Johnson. Many within the consortium are saying you're jeopardizing our future."
"You should be aware of Dewey's high approval ratings. In the latest poll, his approval stands at 68%, while Johnson lags at 32%. Johnson lacks charisma and his stubborn nature isn't favored even among his own party. I really can't understand why you're supporting him."
"Now, there's talk within the consortium about expelling you. Hardy, give me a reason, or I'll have to reconsider our cooperation," Giannini said sternly.
Hardy, unruffled by Giannini's interrogation, remained calm. He anticipated such issues from the start.
"Mr. Giannini, I need to discuss some matters with you in person. There are things that are not suitable to discuss over the phone. I'll be in San Francisco tomorrow. Let's meet and talk this over in detail," Hardy said.
"Alright, I'll be expecting you. I hope you come prepared with a convincing reason," Giannini responded before ending the call.
Hardy, alone, opened a cigar box, lit a cigar, and took a contemplative puff. As the green smoke swirled, he thought about the upcoming meeting with Giannini. He was not just looking to persuade Giannini but to find an advantage in the situation.
Some people view crises with worry and fear, but Hardy saw them as opportunities. His goal was to navigate the situation to his benefit.
In another room, Elaine was using a hair dryer after her shower. Hardy's investment in Johnson was akin to venture capital—high risk, but potentially high reward. Dewey, already popular and well-supported, offered limited returns. Investing in Dewey was like icing on a cake that many others were already enjoying.
In contrast, supporting Johnson was a bold move. While not a large-scale investment compared to those backing Dewey, it was highly visible. Hardy's choice to support Johnson was daring, positioning him as a standout investor in a high-risk scenario.
With the hair dryer still humming, Hardy put out his cigar and walked into the next room. Elaine, in silk pajamas, was drying her hair. Hardy approached her, touching her neck and sliding his hand down her collar.
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The next morning, Hardy flew to San Francisco. Upon arrival, a security team picked him up and took him to Giannini Manor for their meeting.
Giannini greeted Hardy with a serious expression. The California consortium traditionally supported Republicans, and Dewey was their chosen candidate for this election. Supporting Dewey was a strategic move to gain benefits from his potential presidency.
The California consortium was a rising force, seeking to enhance its standing through strategic investments. By backing Dewey, they hoped to secure advantages when he assumed office.
In Giannini's study, the two men sat across from each other. Giannini broke the silence, "Hadi, why am I waiting for you?"
Hardy spread his hands nonchalantly and responded with a question of his own. "Mr. Giannini, if we invest in Dewey and he wins, what benefits will the California consortium actually receive?"
Giannini answered, "We'd gain access to certain investment channels, some defense contracts, and favorable policies."
"How many investors are backing Dewey?" Hardy asked.
"A lot," Giannini replied.
"And will we receive as much benefit as others?"
Giannini hesitated, clearly understanding the implication. The California consortium might end up with less significant gains compared to others, despite their support.
Hardy continued, "Investing in Dewey seems stable and predictable, but it's also crowded. If we support Johnson, who is currently more isolated, we might gain more substantial benefits if he wins."
Giannini looked intrigued. "What are you suggesting?"
"I've received information from reliable sources that a major power is backing Johnson," Hardy said.
Giannini's interest was piqued. "What major power?"
"The Jews, founding a nation," Hardy replied.
Giannini's eyes narrowed. "Explain further."
"Israel will declare independence next month. While this is a certainty, the question is whether Arab League countries will accept it. I anticipate conflict, which will push Israel to seek strong U.S. support. Johnson has been a supporter of Israel. If he is re-elected, he will likely continue this support. Thus, backing him now could be highly beneficial," Hardy explained.
Giannini considered Hardy's insights. If conflict erupted, Johnson would become crucial for Israel, making him an essential ally for the Jewish state. Thus, supporting Johnson might prove advantageous.
Giannini shifted his stance, realizing that Hardy's investment in Johnson could potentially yield greater benefits. He faced a dilemma: whether to continue supporting Dewey or to pivot based on Hardy's predictions.
"Hardy, what do you propose?" Giannini asked.
Hardy suggested, "Continue to support Dewey, but limit the investment. This way, if Dewey wins, we still benefit. I'll continue investing in Johnson. If Johnson is re-elected, the returns could be substantial. Let's agree to support each other regardless of the outcome. This arrangement should be kept private until the election results are known."
Giannini, impressed by Hardy's strategic acumen, agreed. The plan was a sophisticated balancing act designed to maximize benefits regardless of who won the election.
As they concluded their discussion, Giannini reflected on Hardy's tactical prowess, which surpassed even seasoned veterans in the field. Hardy's approach was calculated and shrewd, demonstrating a level of strategic thinking far beyond his years.
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