As long as he goes by "John Apple" he should be ok - usually the bribe gets credited to the surname.

I believe these bribes/flatteries mostly confer a single-use benefit. Things like golden trophies seem to buy a victory in that moment, but they seem to have little relevance on decisions made even a month later, regardless of who gifted it and whether they're still at the helm.

I think you will have your answer if you consider which approach nets the recipient the larger number of golden tributes.

I'm glad someone mentioned this.