Although Li Shimin never distinguished between primary and secondary ministers, gradually the court and the officials feared Gu Jing as the leader.
This had nothing to do with the Gu Clan, but was purely the outcome brought about by Gu Jing's series of political actions.
Even Zhangsun Wuji and Chu Suiliang were somewhat apprehensive of Gu Jing.
This shows Gu Jing's current influence.
But Gu Jing never interfered with court politics; he seemed acutely aware of his own strengths and weaknesses. Although he understood some state affairs, compared to the veteran ministers deeply rooted in court, he was indeed lacking, so he rarely intervened.
What he truly managed was the Imperial Censorate, overseeing the Tang Dynasty's bureaucracy.
Gu Jing was clearly aware of the crucial nature of bureaucracy for the dynasty.
There are undoubtedly benefits to doing so.
