In the solemn atmosphere of the Oval Office, a signing ceremony for the education reform bill is underway, tense and orderly. The media and high-level officials have gathered, their attention focused on President Garrett as they await his formal signing of the bill, which will enact this far-reaching policy. However, in this dignified and solemn setting, only Vice President Jim Matthews wears an unusually heavy expression.
Having risen from the position of Pennsylvania Governor, Matthews once had his own ambitions and dreams of power. Yet, over time, he has gradually come to feel like a mere pawn on someone else’s political chessboard, his status even inferior to that of the new Democratic leader, Congressman Wu-Mac. This shift from the center of power to the margins has filled him with frustration and resentment.
Meanwhile, President Garrett’s reliance on Frank further fuels Matthews’ displeasure. He is angered that Frank allowed Peter Russo to run for governor in his home state without consulting him, but Frank dismisses the matter with an indifferent attitude. To make matters worse, Frank even suggests that Matthews campaign for Peter to help secure more votes. In Matthews’ view, however, Peter is nothing more than an inexperienced congressman, and he has no intention of lending his support to such a candidate.
On the other hand, Peter Russo faces his own struggles. Before officially announcing his candidacy, he must disclose his past misconduct to prepare his campaign team. The process of having his old wounds exposed is far from pleasant, and Peter even considers abandoning his campaign. Yet, with encouragement from Frank and Christina, he regains his courage and decides to confront his past head-on. His efforts to advance the Rivers Bill in the Pennsylvania district have also gained support from most district representatives, giving him a significant advantage in the race.
Additionally, the episode weaves in storylines involving Zoe and Janine. Zoe, as Frank’s secret lover, has always kept her distance from and remained wary of his power games. However, at Frank’s request, she writes a piece glorifying Peter’s redemption story. Meanwhile, Janine faces setbacks at the Washington Herald and seizes the opportunity to jump ship to Slugline, where, under Frank’s arrangement, she conducts an exclusive interview with Peter.