Despite vigorous campaigning, the Santos campaign still struggles to articulate its message and keep the focus on domestic issues rather than gossip and trivia. Although Santos served decades in the military and remains in the reserves, Vinick still appears the stronger candidate on national security issues due to stereotypes about Republicans and Democrats. The White House's decision to halt their own investigation into the leak is a savvy legal move, however it could prove to be costly politically: while Vinick can slam the President for this decision, it's not so easy for Santos to do so. Josh reluctantly recruits help with running the campaign when it becomes obvious that he's trying to do too much himself.
Episode rating
Cast of episode
- 65
- 25
- 5
- 2
- 1
- 1
- Matthew Santos
- Josh Lyman
- C.J. Cregg
- President Josiah Bartlet
- Margaret Hooper
- Leo McGarry
- Senator Arnold Vinick
- Annabeth Schott
- Kate Harper
- Louise Thornton
- Joey Lucas
- Greg Brock
- Nancy
- Bram Howard
- Ronna
- Ned
- Edie Ortega
- Otto
- Kenny Thurman
- Carol Fitzpatrick
- News Anchor Roger Salier
- Pundit #1
- Consultant #1
- Consultant #2
- Consultant #3
- Reporter Gordon
- Reporter #2
- Reporter Charlayne
- Reporter John
- Mike Diacovo - MSNBC Talking Head