Since the incident where Barnes was abducted, Hakeem has been suspicious of everyone. He has spoken to those he suspects, especially these two right-hand men in front of him.

He clearly knows that the two of them don't get along privately. Whenever there's an opportunity, one side is sure to trip up the other, which is usually something the leader is very pleased to see.

But today, even though the two of them came in and hadn't spoken yet, Hakeem already sensed that the atmosphere seemed a bit off.

He pointed to the chair in front of him: "Sit down and talk."

Greenfield and Aguilar exchanged a glance, then sat down as instructed, in an unprecedentedly synchronized manner.

"Hakeem."

Greenfield spoke first, his voice steady, lacking the usual politeness and containing more of a businesslike detachment, "We've come this time to talk honestly with you about the severe situation the party is currently facing, and... possible solutions."

"Hakeem."

Greenfield adjusted his tie before speaking: "The current situation within the party... You're surely aware, we're facing an unprecedented severe situation. In Congress, we haven't been able to form an effective force. On some key votes, we've repeatedly failed, and there have even been cases of our party members defecting."

"Morale is low, and many people have come to me expressing dissatisfaction, thinking that there are serious issues within the party..."

Hakeem took off his glasses and glanced at him, asking indifferently: "Is the dissatisfaction towards me?"

Greenfield didn't respond, essentially confirming this answer.

Hakeem's gaze swept over the faces of the two opposite him. After a brief silence, he turned to Aguilar and asked: "Aguilar, do you think the same?"

"Hakeem, the issue isn't what I personally think."

"The issue is that too many people in the party have lost confidence—confidence in direction, confidence in strategy, and... confidence in the leadership."

Aguilar's answer was somewhat reserved, but his attitude was already clear. He was on the same side as Greenfield today.

Upon hearing this, Hakeem's face gradually darkened, staring at the two as he asked: "So, are you trying to blame all these failures on my shoulders?"

He could already smell something fishy; these two guys seemed to be plotting something.

Greenfield did not deny it, facing Hakeem directly.

Since he wanted to take this position, he wouldn't avoid facing off against Hakeem.

"Hakeem, we've worked together for many years, and it's precisely for this reason that we can't stand by and watch the Democratic Party continue to fail amid divisions and internal discord."

"Eriksson, Mendoza, etc., they've privately expressed very strong opinions. Some even say that if the situation doesn't fundamentally change, they might form their own voting bloc on key issues..."

"Do you know what you're saying?!" Hakeem slammed the table, his gaze locked onto Greenfield. It was the first time he used this tone towards him.

Because Greenfield's words were almost equivalent to a declaration of war.

If even voting was no longer under command, then what use was there for him as party leader? To cause a split?

Greenfield was not intimidated by the other's aura. He shrugged: "I'm just conveying their sentiments. When they feel the current leadership can't represent their interests or lead the Democratic Party to victory, they won't have many reservations."

The atmosphere in the office became extremely oppressive, and one could distinctly hear Hakeem's heavy breathing.

After a few seconds, he suddenly sneered and asked, "So, what's your suggestion?"

"My suggestion is simple, Hakeem."

Greenfield leaned forward, his tone becoming serious, "To prevent internal division and for the long-term future of the Democratic Party... we need a decisive and forceful transition."

Hakeem's eyelid twitched, but he didn't immediately erupt, only coldly asking: "Transition? You want to replace me? Who will take this position?"

"You, Greenfield?" When he said this last sentence, his gaze was directed at Aguilar.

As if asking, Aguilar, can you agree to this outcome?

Aguilar's face betrayed no expression, merely bowing his head calmly.

Hakeem gritted his teeth, understanding that these two despicable guys must have come to some shady agreement.

"Yes, Hakeem."

This time, Greenfield gave him a definite answer, "I've already had thorough communications with multiple colleagues, and after careful consideration by everyone, it is unanimously agreed that under the current severe circumstances, you're no longer suited to continue serving as party leader."

"Everyone hopes you might resign voluntarily due to personal health reasons."

"Heh... What if I don't?" The anger in Hakeem's voice was palpable, the words seemed to squeeze out from between his teeth.

Greenfield casually dusted off his sleeve and crossed his legs: "Trust me, Hakeem, this is the best solution. You'll keep your dignity."

"Otherwise, those members might take extreme measures, even initiate a removal procedure."

Hearing that they even considered removing him, Hakeem felt a wave of dizziness, unable to hold back any longer, and slammed the table, glaring at Greenfield: "Remove me! Do you have the votes?! Think you can rally some fence-sitters to force me out?!"

He grew increasingly agitated, his finger almost poking Greenfield's nose, "Damn it, you two traitors! Don't forget it was me who put you in this position! The power you hold comes from me! I can take it back at any time!"