Ren Huan
Zhao, while recommended by An, was also friendly with the chancellor Ren Huan, whom, however, An viewed as a political enemy, and who was removed from his chancellor post in 927, apparently under An's instigation. Later in the year, however, An, believing that Ren might join the general Zhu Shouyin in rebellion, persuaded Emperor Mingzong to order Ren to commit suicide. Despite An's power, Zhao, weeping, nevertheless stated to him, "Ren Huan is a righteous man; how would he consider rebelling? You, Lord, are so excessive in your punishments, and how can you govern the state like this?" It was said that An was shamed by Zhao's speech, but the speech apparently had no effect, as Ren's death was subsequently carried out.