Former President Jackson was back in front of the CNN cameras a few nights later in an interview with James Paschal.
“Mr. President, you were recently interviewed by the BBC and made a statement addressing the concerns of some citizens about the protection of human rights in the new Republic of Texas. Did it seem to you that former governor and interim president of Texas, Marty Kert, might not be taking these concerns seriously enough?”
“Well, James, as you know, Mr. Kert and I had a strained relationship in the early part of his term as governor,” Jackson stated. “We got through that, though, and worked well together to see that the Texas referendum and possible separation went as painlessly as possible for both Texas and the U.S. Now it is up to all the people, both in Texas and the remaining states, to see that the rights of all citizens are maintained through this transition and beyond.”
“President Kert seemed adamant that only Texas citizens would determine the laws and content of the Texas constitution,” Pascal said.
“Well, James, no one rules in a vacuum. There will be dire consequences if the human rights gains made over the years are compromised going forward. We have made that clear to President Kert and his administration from the outset. He is well aware of where we stand.”
Paschal leaned across to shake Jackson’s hand. “Thank you, Mr. President,” he said. “We appreciate your time.”
“It was my pleasure, James.” The president stood as the producer signaled the cameras had stopped rolling. Taking off his microphone, he handed it to one of the TV crew and, escorted by his security detail, he left the building.
He walked out to his car, settled down in the back, and rolled up the window between him and his driver. Pulling a burner phone out of his pocket, he dialed a number.
“Hello,” answered Frank Mitchell.
“It’s Corbin. Just wanted you to know that everything went just like I wanted it to. I need you and Ralph to keep up the pressure on your end. Zhen Fang and Lin Yun will be happy to hear we’ve got everything under control, and that’ll get them off my back for a while.”
“Good,” the senator answered. “We’ve already heard back from Zhen and Lin. They’ve hacked into the GPS for the vehicle Wood and Chambers are driving, so they won’t need to follow them. As for the Thomas woman, they have her under surveillance now.”
“Excellent,” Jackson said softly. He ended the call. Things are starting to come together, he thought, and relaxed, leaning his head back against the luxurious upholstery in his BMW sedan.