Chapter 647

In early February, Charles had left London and returned to the United States. Since the negotiations with the Korean National Pension Service were complete, there were no major events left.

Albany, the capital of New York State, was located in the mid-eastern part of the state, on the west bank of the Hudson River, 140 miles south of New York City, and 160 miles east of Boston.

Charles and Ivanka Trump attended a banquet hosted by the newly elected governor, Andrew Cuomo. This was to pave the way for Ivanka's run for state legislator.

That night, in the bathroom of a high-end hotel in Albany, Charles pulled up Ivanka, who was kneeling on the ground, against the wall. He had Ivanka hold the glass wall, and Charles leaned on the girl's back...

"There's not much of a problem with the state legislator position. After all, we have Governor Andrew Cuomo's recommendation," said Charles, holding the girl as they lay in bed after a shower.

Ivanka smiled, "I understand, but I've heard his relationship with New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg isn't that great."

Charles rested his hands behind his head and stared at the ceiling. "Michael Bloomberg got re-elected as mayor for the third time last year. He ran as a Republican, and since New York City has a mayor-council government system, he has considerable power. It's only normal that he doesn't pay much attention to the governor of New York state."

Ivanka propped up her head and let the blanket slide off, revealing her full 32D figure. She reached out and tapped Charles' chest with her finger, "Michael Bloomberg has indeed brought New York's economy back on track over the past few years. Other than finance, he's heavily developing the cultural entertainment and service industries. It's understandable that New Yorkers would continue to elect him."

"Haha, he's a top billionaire," said Charles, rubbing the girl's chest. "Tomorrow, we go to Washington, D.C., to meet our president!"

"The president sent troops to Syria again. Are you going to persuade him?" Ivanka teased as she embraced Charles.

"What if I say it's because our company received a script for the movie Zero Dark Thirty, and I want to read some classified federal files? Would you believe me?" Charles said, and then began kissing the girl's chest.

The script for Zero Dark Thirty had been in preparation and planning for about ten years, and it was completed late last year, catching the attention of Kathryn Bigelow. After winning the 2010 Academy Award for Best Director with The Hurt Locker, Kathryn Bigelow's next political thriller was supported directly by Donna Langley from Capet Pictures. Naturally, Charles also supported it, because he remembered that bin Laden would indeed be hunted down this year!

Of course, Charles's visit to Washington, D.C., wasn't just for this. It was also for next year's election.

Okay, Zero Dark Thirty was indeed a political tribute film. Regardless of whether bin Laden would be killed, the movie was set to release next year.

Obama was definitely aiming for re-election, and both internal and external opponents needed to be studied.

...

In Washington, D.C., in a corner of the White House banquet hall, Obama and Charles Capet were chatting about sports.

"I can't believe you bought the Los Angeles Dodgers at a record-breaking price. Congratulations," Obama smiled. "MLB, NBA, NFL, I really hope I get to host your teams at the White House!"

Charles felt slightly embarrassed and laughed it off, "There will be a chance. The New Jersey Nets will soon move to Brooklyn, New York. This year, they should make it to the playoffs. I believe the championship isn't far away!"

Obama nodded, "Let's take a walk in the garden."

So, Obama and Charles went to a bench in the outside garden, with Secret Service agents scattered around.

"Charles, you know, the House of Representatives is now dominated by Republicans. We lost last year's midterm elections," Obama said straightforwardly. "Next year's election might have some twists and turns."

Charles looked at Obama, "With the chaos in North Africa and the Middle East, the President's approval rating seems to be on the decline. The wars in Tunisia, Libya, Egypt, and Syria, along with civilian shootings in Afghanistan and Iraq..."

Obama frowned, "Charles, you have considerable influence in Hollywood. My advisory team thinks we can use a diversion strategy."

"Diversion strategy?" Charles thought for a moment, rubbing his chin. "Then let's target one of the Republican strategists, Fox News Chairman Roger Ailes. News Corp is already overwhelmed by the wiretapping scandal in the UK. Roger Ailes has been lording over Fox News for years, harassing many female anchors and staff."

"Good idea, it will curb the Republican arrogance," Obama agreed enthusiastically.

"This matter shouldn't be done by me, otherwise it will trigger a chain reaction in Hollywood, like the Harvey Weinstein incident last time," Charles explained. "Right now, Hollywood needs stability! I will send some of Roger Ailes' information to you, President. The women's rights groups will also cooperate."

Obama nodded, "I'll have Pete Rouse find someone to handle it. If you cooperate in Hollywood, I'm not worried."

"By the way, Secretary of State Hillary Clinton was recently voted the most popular politician, right? We can push her out as the main force against the Republicans in this women's rights issue," Charles suggested.

This move aimed to drag Fox News into the mud. Roger Ailes had to be discredited. Even if he wouldn't face the same fate as Harvey Weinstein, he couldn't stay in the news industry.

Current White House Chief of Staff Pete Rouse would be tasked by Obama with managing the situation, as Charles alone wouldn't wield enough power. With Hillary added to the mix, there would be no problem.

"Okay," Obama agreed without objection.

"By the way, did the CIA locate bin Laden's residence and plan a raid?" Charles suddenly asked calmly.

Obama was stunned for a moment but quickly regained composure. "There is such a situation, but we need more specific confirmation before I can approve the action."

This was definitely a state secret, known by very few. At that moment, Obama realized how terrifying Charles's political connections could be.

"Don't worry, Mr. President. Next year, I will make a political tribute film to praise the President's achievements!" Charles said, standing up and shaking hands with Obama before they returned to the banquet hall together.

"Let's leave, darling!" Charles found Ivanka.

*****

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