President Garrett is enraged by the failure of the watershed bill—not only a personal defeat but also a sign of growing divisions within the Democratic Party. The bill’s collapse, which he believed would pass with Linda’s support, highlights the declining influence of the White House in Congress.
Linda’s absence becomes a critical turning point. Instead of attending the vote-whipping effort, she deals with her son’s school admission issue. Her decision not only contributes to the bill’s failure but also sparks conflict between the President and Frank. Garrett begins to doubt Frank’s competence, forcing Frank to take full responsibility and attempt to regain trust by solving Linda’s problem.
Throughout the crisis, Frank demonstrates shrewdness and strategic cunning. He seizes the opportunity presented by Linda’s personal dilemma to win her support. However, he also faces betrayal within his ranks. Zoe provides a crucial tip revealing that Claire orchestrated the lawmakers' opposition—a revelation that stuns Frank, yet he must confront it head-on.
The argument between Claire and Frank emerges as a climactic moment. Claire vents long-suppressed frustrations, while Frank argues that their shared goals outweigh the clean water initiative. Though Claire finds this reasoning hard to accept, she ultimately relents—yet their conflict is far from resolved.
Peter Russo introduces a new complication by threatening to expose the Kern editorial unless Frank addresses the bill’s failure. This forces Frank to act decisively. He successfully resolves Linda’s issue by reaching out to Gillian and recommending Linda’s son to the dean, while also negotiating a deal to neutralize Peter’s threat.
However, the situation continues to evolve. A smoothly negotiated agreement during a dinner meeting is followed by another twist: Peter’ disastrous interview, exploited by Zoe in a published article that effectively ends his political career. Rachel’s reappearance further destabilizes Peter. Finally, Frank successfully brings Vice President Jim Matthews back into the game, setting the stage for future developments.