The Tyrant Billionaire

In other words, when those two networks aired the news, the ABC logo was visible on their screens.

According to expert analysis, it was expected that more than 60 million people would tune in to watch the live broadcast of the President's inauguration.

This was a tremendous advertisement for ABC Television.

When the camera panned over the crowd of dignitaries on the platform, it caught sight of Hardy sitting there, and the shot lingered on him for two seconds.

This moment naturally drew the attention of the entire American audience.

"That's the owner of ABC Television. Last time, the camera lingered on him for a few seconds, and this time, they did it again. They are really good at flattering their boss."

"Johnson's two speeches—one at the White House and this one on Capitol Hill—both times Jon Hardy sat in the most prominent position. The title 'The Man Behind the President' isn't just a nickname. Hardy Security daring to use fighter jets against the mafia isn't without reason. This is where his confidence comes from."n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

"I suspect the stock prices of Hardy Group's companies are going to rise again."

After the inauguration speech ended,

The tens of thousands of people cheered together, followed by the firing of ceremonial cannons and a fireworks display. The President rode in his official car down the long street, accepting the crowd's cheers before returning to the White House.

As per tradition, The entire day was filled with celebratory activities.

The White House would host a grand banquet. This time, even more people were attending than when Johnson had first won the election, and since this was a national event, the expenses could be reimbursed by the government.

Hardy, dressed in a sharp suit, mingled with various prominent figures.

By now, Hardy had truly become a highly influential figure in America's upper class.

...

Hardy raised his glass as he approached Johnson. "Congratulations, Mr. President. Today is a day worth celebrating and remembering."

With a broad smile, Johnson reached out and hugged Hardy, giving him two firm pats on the back, his gesture clear without the need for words.

This was Johnson's way of expressing his gratitude to Hardy for his support.

Afterward, Hardy mingled with other guests. When he saw Acheson, he approached him with a smile, saying, "Congratulations, Mr. Acheson, you are now the Secretary of State."

Hardy and Acheson were already old friends. Acheson had led the inspection& investment team, and although Hardy had left halfway through, they had spent several months together.

Next, Hardy spotted General Marshall. Today, Marshall was not wearing his military uniform. As a five star general, Marshall could keep his rank and uniform for life. In U.S. history, there had only ever been ten five star generals.

Marshall was one of them, having been mentored by General Pershing, the first five star general in history. Marshall had, in turn, been the key figure behind Eisenhower's rise, making him Eisenhower's true benefactor.

Hardy and Marshall had a long conversation. Hardy's HD Security company had business dealings with the Department of Defense, so they had many topics of common interest.

Additionally, as Johnson's long time partner, Hardy had played a significant role in Johnson's election campaign. Marshall genuinely liked this young man.

"General Marshall, sir, as you know, my defense company was recently established. I hope to recruit some capable and insightful retired generals to join us and help plan for the company's future. I would greatly appreciate your recommendations," Hardy said sincerely.

Marshall smiled. "Some generals, though retired, still possess invaluable knowledge. Not utilizing their expertise would indeed be a great waste. Your proposal is excellent. I've heard that General Knudsen is already working at your security company.

"We have business dealings, and strengthening ties is necessary. We can discuss this matter further when we have more time."

"Of course," Hardy responded with a smile.

Building a good relationship with Marshall wasn't just about business with the Department of Defense; it was also about leveraging Marshall's powerful network within the military.

The logistics department was now under the jurisdiction of the Department of Defense. Williams was currently the Deputy Minister, and given his age, he had the potential to become the Minister of Logistics in the future.

Then there was Eisenhower, who, historically, would become the next president, serving two terms over eight years. Eisenhower, as the Republican candidate, had been backed by the Rockefeller family.

Through General Marshall, Hardy could establish connections with Eisenhower early, allowing him to form a more personal relationship than that of a mere investor.

This way, he wouldn't just be a subordinate supporter of the Rockefeller family but an equal ally alongside them.

Sometimes, relationships of this kind.

The smallest difference can lead to vastly different outcomes.

In Johnson's new administration, Acheson, the former Deputy Secretary of State, had become Secretary of State, while General Marshall, the previous Secretary of State, had taken on the role of Secretary of Defense.

In this U.S. administration, the three pillars—President, Secretary of State, and Secretary of Defense—were now firmly established, creating a strong and stable structure.

In future historical accounts, this post war period is seen as crucial, as it was during this time that the U.S. laid the foundation for its rise, eventually growing into a superpower.

One president's (Harry S. Truman) contribution during this era was ranked fifth among all U.S. presidents, with historians calling him "one of the greatest American presidents."

And who were the ones ranked ahead of him?

Figures like Abraham Lincoln, George Washington, and Franklin Roosevelt.

Many from the California Consortium attended this banquet, including Giannini. Seeing Hardy casually chatting with the President, Secretary of State, and Secretary of Defense stirred feelings of jealousy within Giannini. It was clear that the younger generation was truly remarkable.

Other members of the California Consortium also focused their attention on Hardy, foreseeing that he could potentially rise as the consortium's future leader.

Giannini was getting old.

His ability to expand and innovate was clearly declining.