Bingo, I think you got it. Clark would know what button to push, that's his area of expertise: manipulation.
"Hack, I've been reading your columns for years. 'About Face' is on my desk, I read it every day! You know, when I'm the president or the veep, I'd like to bring you in. You could finally get the infantry straightened out! Finally, we could get rid of all of those gold-plated toys, and take care of the troops for a change! What do you think, Hack, would you like a job where you could REALLY help the troops?"
(Hack leaps to his feet, saluting, tears in his eyes)
"YES SIR! ONE OLD SOLDIER, REPORTING FOR DUTY SIR!"