"Sanders, that old hardhead, is backing Murphy because he wants to expand the Progressives' map. But Sanders can't control Murphy, because Murphy's confidence comes from you—from that five-hundred-million-dollar political achievement in Pittsburgh."
"If you don't support him, if you don't let him capitalize on the benefits of Pittsburgh's infrastructure, he's nothing."
Stern looked at Leo.
"This is the deal, young man."
"Trade Murphy's ambition for your five hundred million dollars."
"You can take your bonds, go back to building your city, and be the hero mayor."
"But Murphy has to drop out."
"You can call him right now and tell him that, due to 'certain unavoidable political circumstances,' he can't use the Inland Port project as a springboard for his campaign."
"The moment he announces he's dropping out of the race, the approval from Harrisburg will be in your inbox."
The restaurant was noisy—the clatter of silverware, the murmur of conversations.
