This assumes their relationship is incredibly simplistic. You're saying that Ralph and Russ were of one mind. You're ignoring the social norms of interaction with owner of the company. If the owner hates people from Chicago, you aren't going to investigate people from Chicago very deeply. You also tend to get a feel for what they are looking for and want.
It is all speculation on Ralph and Russ's relationship. We don't know who made the ultimate decisions or what impact each one had on decisions.
Again, if Ralph or Russ aren't going to make the decision, who will?