Melissa Marsala

The president engages in a war of wills with the House speaker, resulting in a government shutdown. Bartlet seeks to end the fiscal crisis by challenging Republicans in the halls of the Capitol.

President Bartlet faces a political minefield when seeking to replace a deceased Supreme Court justice, Josh proffers a liberal judicial nominee, while the president meets with a bright, conservative judge.

Bartlet ponders a lengthy list of prisoners eligible for a presidential pardon, Charlie shares insider titbits with an attractive woman, and Toby joins a pollster on a tour of Middle America.

President Bartlet sanctions Toby's hush-hush mission to reform Social Security, then back-pedals when details are leaked to the press. Female staffers complain to Josh about a new co-worker.

Lois anticipates a civilised evening of adult conversation when she accepts a dinner invitation from Stevie's parents.

Former Vice President Hoynes plans to write a tell-all book about the Bartlet White House, Josh deals with school vouchers and the closing of a military base, and Toby parleys with trade union bosses.