As usual, the president's speech drew attention on the day of his election victory, but everyone soon noticed something.
Although Barnes was nearly a hundred, he still presented himself well overall, coming across as a dependable old politician. Those on both sides of the domestic divide who were not among the most radical calmed down a little, feeling somewhat willing to give him a chance.
Honestly, it was a perfectly serviceable performance, and at a time like this, that was already quite an achievement.
But!
The problem was that Lier had simultaneously put on this demonstration for the entire world.
Africa went without saying, and there were partners in Europe too. America's major internet providers and cities were all eager to make money. Except in those states that staunchly supported Roxxon, everyone could watch this speech.
In fact, though, as long as people could access the internet, Bloom could guarantee that the content would be pushed right in front of them.
By comparison, Barnes's earnest speech seemed a little... a little feeble.
The more chaotic the times, the more people's thinking tended toward extremes. During a mass brawl, everyone would only think that anyone trying to break it up was taking sides. Keep trying, and they would beat you up too.
Atlas promising the moon: good. The president papering over differences: bad.
Of course, if Lier could think of staging a demonstration at this moment to show off his allies, his technology, the scale of his industries, and his demands, Roxxon could think of it too. His side was just much quieter.
After all, he did not need too many people sharing his profits, power, and future.
Houston, Texas.
Roxxon called this place the Houston Mega-Petroleum Industrial Cluster Center-
Refineries, petroleum plants, oil storage tanks, pipeline networks, ports, and logistics