****
Being under attack from the Global Times and ABC, McKinsey found it impossible to remain passive. He immediately instructed his team to contact the media and arrange a press conference.
When the reporters heard the news, they flocked to the hotel where the press conference was being held, eager to cover what promised to be a major story. The crowd included over a hundred reporters, with cameras and microphones ready.
McKinsey, who had experience as both a judge and a formidable speaker, was particularly adept at handling the media. He confidently defended himself, asserting, "The Global Times' report is entirely false. The United States is on the brink of being overwhelmed by co-conspirators. We must eliminate the cancer disrupting American politics. All actions taken by the investigation committee are both reasonable and legal."
He continued, "The Global Times has fabricated facts and made baseless accusations. I believe they are supporting the Labour Party..."
McKinsey boldly criticized the Global Times, accusing them of attempting to undermine his efforts through deceitful means.
"The recordings aired by ABC are completely doctored. They don't reflect what I actually said. Everything I do is for the benefit of this country."
McKinsey further claimed that the attacks from the Global Times and ABC were retaliatory maneuvers, intended to discredit him as he was closing in on exposing their true colors.
The reporters, however, had sharp questions ready for him.
One reporter asked, "Congressman McKinsey, you claimed in parliament that you have evidence of 205 congressmen being involved in corruption. Why haven't you produced this evidence?"
Another inquired, "Are the companies and individuals on your list of targets for the next round of investigations genuine, or is the list a fabrication?"
A third reporter raised a constitutional concern, "In a free society like the U.S., even those with differing beliefs are protected by the Constitution. Are we abandoning these principles? What about the deported directors, screenwriters, and actors?"
Another reporter accused him of financial manipulation, "Are you conspiring with others to manipulate stock prices and benefit financially from political suppression? We have evidence of this being reported to the relevant state departments. What is your response?"
Finally, a reporter questioned McKinsey's personal conduct, "There are claims that you spend tens of thousands of dollars on prostitution annually. Several women have come forward with their stories. What do you say about this?"
McKinsey's reaction was one of irritation. When challenged about the claim that his encounters with prostitutes were brief, he exploded in anger. "That's nonsense! My health is perfectly fine."
Yet, the reporters pressed further. When confronted with allegations from years prior about a domestic violence incident involving his wife, McKinsey was taken aback.
Frustrated and flustered by the revelations and the relentless questioning, McKinsey abruptly ended the press conference.
By 9 PM, ABC TV aired the press conference footage. Two TV commentators provided a biting commentary, mocking McKinsey's evasive responses and the nature of the questions. The combination of McKinsey's defensiveness and the sharp critiques left viewers with a negative impression of him.
The revelations of McKinsey's alleged personal and political misconduct stirred public outrage. His reputation as a political hooligan, known for deceit and intimidation, was further cemented. The narrative of corruption and personal depravity was now dominating public discourse, painting him in a highly unfavorable light.
In response, McKinsey, incensed, ordered his investigative team to focus their efforts on the Global Times, ABC TV, and the Hardy Group. He demanded a thorough investigation and vowed to bring down these entities, aiming to close their doors and drive them to bankruptcy.
The next morning, the investigative committee split into three groups, heading towards their targets. At the entrance of ABC TV, the security guards, armed with wooden sticks and pistols, refused entry to the investigators despite their credentials and paperwork.
The security manager, showing an indifference to the situation, feigned ignorance and threatened to call the police. Frustrated and realizing further confrontation was futile, the investigation team retreated to get additional documentation.
Meanwhile, in a dramatic turn, the investigation team's car was ambushed by several vehicles. Men in dark clothing and armed with weapons surrounded them. The investigation team was swiftly overpowered and taken away.
Hardy's influence and resources were on full display. With his extensive network, including HD Security and his intelligence company, Hardy ensured that the investigators faced overwhelming resistance.
The fate of the investigation team and their failed attempts at infiltration underscored Hardy's resolve and power. McKinsey, oblivious to the disappearance of his subordinates, remained unaware of the scale of Hardy's intervention.
The chapter closes on the stark reality of the political and corporate battlefield, with McKinsey's grand plans unraveling amidst a backdrop of media scrutiny and aggressive countermeasures.