Abbey Bartlet is deeply upset by the speech’s content. She feels the President has reneged on their agreement that he would only serve one term due to his Multiple Sclerosis. Her anger stems from the speech's ambitious tone, which implies a re-election campaign.
Marlee Matlin as Joey Lucas and Ted McGinley as talk show host Mark Gottfried. The_West_Wing_2x13_Ostaggi_DvdMux
The contrast between the public celebration of the State of the Union and the grim discussions in the Situation Room illustrates the dual life of the White House staff. Abbey Bartlet is deeply upset by the speech’s content
Reviewers often note the episode's portrayal of professional women like C.J. and Ainsley, pointing out both their shrewdness and the occasional misogyny they face within the administration. Essential Details Original Air Date: February 7, 2001 Written by: Aaron Sorkin (Teleplay); Story by Dee Dee Myers Marlee Matlin as Joey Lucas and Ted McGinley
C.J. Cregg discovers a potential PR disaster involving Officer Sloan, a policeman the President praised during the speech. It is revealed that 17 years prior, Sloan was accused of police brutality. Though the lawsuit was thrown out and Sloan maintains his innocence, the story threatens to overshadow the administration's message.
While the president addresses Congress, news breaks that five American drug agents have been taken hostage by Colombian rebels. The staff must covertly manage this escalating international crisis while maintaining the public facade of a celebration.
The West Wing S2E13: "Bartlet’s Third State of the Union" The 13th episode of The West Wing's second season, titled is a high-stakes hour that masterfully balances the triumphalism of a successful speech with the immediate, crushing weight of domestic and international crises. Plot Summary