Bab 252: Chapter 252: Self-Inflicted
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Hardy had just returned to Los Angeles when his secretary handed him a portfolio. "Boss, this is the information submitted by the Global Times Hong Kong branch."
Hardy had a keen interest in the East and had instructed the Hong Kong branch to send recent newspapers and significant updates regularly.
He opened the portfolio and began reading.
"Chinese Kuomintang and Communist forces are in conflict, with the power imbalance narrowing. A major confrontation seems imminent."
Hardy paused, recalling that the three major battles were approaching.
Another report read: "In the Far East, MacArthur has issued Order No. 4 of the Allied Command in 1948, releasing 19 Japanese war criminals. This marks the fifth wave of war criminals released since 1946, including notorious Class A war criminals, soldiers, and munitions manufacturers."
Hardy's face darkened. MacArthur's repeated indulgence in Japan, driven by greed, was appalling. He resolved that when he eventually visited Japan, those responsible would face justice.
Flipping through more pages, Hardy saw a headline: "National Government in Beijing Holds Parade for Dewey's Presidential Campaign."
The newspaper featured photos of the parade, showcasing a mix of elephants with paper bundles, Dewey's portraits, and bilingual slogans. The spectacle resembled a bizarre parade more than a celebratory one.
The report detailed that despite Dewey's high approval ratings in the U.S., the Republic of China, led by Jiang, organized this grand parade in Beijing to support Dewey's campaign.
Hardy found the situation amusing. Jiang's efforts to garner U.S. support seemed both politically astute and self-defeating.
He decided to share this news with President Johnson. "Send this article to the front page," he instructed the editor-in-chief.
The editor-in-chief acknowledged the request.
Hardy initially considered publishing the MacArthur report but realized it would likely have no impact on American sentiments.
After the editor-in-chief left, Hardy called Mike, now Johnson's Assistant to the President and Director of the Liaison Office, to discuss the implications. Mike, on the Johnson campaign trail, agreed to ensure Johnson saw the report.
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**Salt Lake City, Utah**
President Johnson began his day with breakfast alongside his campaign team. Amid casual conversation about the day's itinerary, Mike entered with a copy of the Global Times.
Mike, who had already reviewed the newspaper, knew that Johnson would find the report about China's support for Dewey intriguing. He casually mentioned it to Johnson, who soon looked at the newspaper.
Upon seeing the photos and the headline, Johnson's expression darkened. "This Jiang and his group are nothing but corrupt and incompetent," he fumed.
He expressed his frustration with Jiang's administration and his refusal to offer further aid or support. Johnson's anger was evident as he denounced Jiang's actions and vowed to cut off support.
Mike relayed Johnson's reaction to Hardy, who was pleased with the outcome. Johnson's decision to sever ties with Jiang and withhold support was a significant victory for Hardy.
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**Later**
Henry approached Hardy with new information. "Boss, we've been monitoring Dewey's campaign. A recent visit by Chinese official Song Ziwen was particularly noteworthy. He and Dewey had an afternoon meeting at a golf course."
Henry reported that shortly after Song Ziwen's visit, $5 million appeared in Dewey's secret campaign fund, traced back to a Brazilian account likely funded by Chinese sources.
Hardy recognized that the funds, likely embezzled from U.S. aid, could be used to undermine Dewey. Although there was no concrete evidence, the allegations could tarnish Dewey's campaign.
Hardy pondered how best to leverage this information. He planned to use it strategically, potentially through his casino business, to further destabilize Dewey's campaign.
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Bab 253: Chapter 253: Hardy's Revenge
"Henry, continue tracking this lead and gather as much evidence as possible," Hardy instructed.
"Understood, boss. I've dispatched a team to monitor Dewey's associates. We'll see what we can uncover," Henry replied.
Hardy pondered for a moment and added, "Find someone skilled to dig deeper into this. Ideally, a reporter."
"Don't worry, boss. Our security and intelligence teams are well-placed. We also have assets in the media," Henry assured him.
The HD security and intelligence department had grown rapidly over the past year. With hundreds of operatives, Hardy ensured that each of his companies was closely monitored. Their network extended beyond his businesses; they also infiltrated competitors and other industries to gain valuable insights. Hardy's goal was to build an intelligence network as robust as any government agency, envisioning the Hardy Group as a powerful entity akin to a nation.
Hardy's vision for his empire was clear: to create a "Hadi Empire" with strength comparable to a nation, but without the need for land. Instead, it would thrive on influence and power. The United States, with its vast resources and opportunities, was the perfect base for this expansion.
In a moment of introspection, Hardy realized his ambition resembled a cancer cell, growing aggressively and consuming resources.
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After his speech in Salt Lake City, President Johnson was scheduled to visit Carson City. However, Hardy's request led him to change his plans and head to Las Vegas.
Upon arrival, the Mayor of Las Vegas and a throng of local officials and entrepreneurs greeted Johnson at the airport. The scene was filled with flashing cameras as the President waved and smiled.
The motorcade through downtown Las Vegas was met with enthusiastic crowds holding American flags and flowers. A notable highlight was a flamboyant gesture from a famous Las Vegas dancer, who threw a bouquet and blew a kiss to Johnson. The dancer was a well-known performer at Hardy's hotel casino, adding a touch of local flair to the event.
Johnson stayed at the Hardy Hotel, where Hardy had prepared for his visit. In a luxurious suite, the two men discussed the campaign. Hardy complimented Johnson on his growing support, but Johnson expressed concern over recent negative media coverage.
"Have you seen the latest from the New York Times and Washington Post?" Johnson asked.
Hardy acknowledged having read the articles, which were critical of Johnson's chances. Johnson was particularly irked by foreign opinions, especially Chiang's public support for Dewey.
"We have more than three months to improve," Hardy said. "I believe the people will recognize the better choice."
Johnson, grateful for Hardy's support, mentioned his efforts to influence the judiciary discreetly. "Thank you for your backing. Dewey's conspiracy might impact your business, but I've addressed it."
Hardy smiled, raising his glass. "Thank you, Mr. President."
The conversation shifted when Hardy revealed an intriguing development. "A reporter from the Global Times discovered that Chinese officials had secretly met with Dewey. Afterward, $5 million appeared in Dewey's campaign fund, traced back to Brazil. This likely came from Chinese sources."
Johnson's interest was piqued. "Receiving foreign donations is illegal. Dewey should be aware of the seriousness of this."
"Did they make any agreements?" Johnson inquired.
"They met on a golf course. While the details of their conversation are unknown, it's reasonable to assume Dewey might have pledged support for China's interests," Hardy speculated.
Johnson's frustration was palpable. The realization that Chiang was supporting Dewey with funds meant to undermine his campaign only deepened his animosity.
"I plan to have the FBI investigate this," Johnson said. "If Dewey is found violating federal law, it would be a significant blow to his campaign."
Hardy suggested a more aggressive approach. "Revealing Dewey's foreign funds might damage his reputation, but what if we created a scandal involving a reporter's murder to cover up the truth? Such a scandal would overshadow the election."
Johnson was taken aback. "You're considering having the reporter killed?"
"No, no," Hardy quickly clarified. "I only intend to create a situation where the investigation is so intense that Dewey will be overwhelmed, leaving him no time for his campaign."
Johnson sighed with relief. Hardy assured him that this plot was separate from Johnson's campaign, and the scandal would not implicate him.
"Focus on your speech," Hardy said. "We'll ensure it gets wide coverage. Las Vegas TV, while not as prominent as ABC, reaches a national audience, especially those interested in lottery shows."
Johnson nodded, appreciating Hardy's strategic approach. The groundwork was laid for a campaign event that would keep the spotlight on Johnson while creating distractions for Dewey.
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