House of Cards

Ch. 2
You know what I like about people? They stack so well. Let me get this for you.
This is too much. It's not half enough. Thanks for opening up for me. Any time,
day or night. You know that.
When was the last time they added a partner? It's been a while. Well, they know
a winner when they see one. Remy was the best press secretary I ever had. Why
did you let him go? I didn't. They stole him away. San Corp helps me purchase
loyalty, and in return they expect mine. It's degrading, I know, but when the tit's
that big, everybody gets in line. Tell them I'm on top of it. I need more than that.
You are well aware that I do not drop the ball on things like this, Remy. Promises,
Frank. Secretary of State, Argentine and offshore drilling contracts-- talk to me
when I've solved the problem. Don't waste my time when I'm working on solving
the problem. When there's billions on the line, I can't not show up. Fine. Thank
you for your diligence. Eight figures to you and the D triple C. 6 million to build
that library of yours in your name. - I know. - Don't make them throw money at
your challenger next cycle. You've made your point. Have I? I hope so. Such a
waste of talent. He chose money over power- In this town, a mistake nearly
everyone makes. Money is the McMansion in Sarasota that starts falling apart
after ten years. Power is the old stone building that stands for centuries. I cannot
respect someone who doesn't see the difference.
Linda Vasquez is on the phone. Ah, I'm surprised it took her this long. It's only 6
past 9:00. Which means she read the Herald 3 hours ago and spent the past 2
1/2 getting reamed by the president. Tell her I'm on my way.
This is major reform, a complete overhaul. That would usually take months. Well,
we only have days, not months. But think about the process. We can't just
change-- When I ask my colleagues, your bosses, who are the smartest minds in
education, out of hundreds, we arrived at you-- the six of you in this room. Now, I
realize it is a difficult task, but we have the opportunity to make history here. And
I want all of us to make it together. So good luck. We're counting on you. Page 1.
What's she saying? They want to point fingers. At me? I told her we cannot do
that. I mean, you are vital to this process. I'm up to here with them, Donald-- for
lying, for turning their back on you. You know, I'm of a mind to say screw it. I'll fall
on this grenade myself, just to piss them off. Give me John king at CNN. Wait,
Frank. This is not your fault. No, we have to protect your reputation. But you're
the man that needs to get the bill through the house I will-- hang on. I will assign
it to one of my deputies, quietly manage it, and help guide you through the
process. I am not comfortable with this. Well, then what do you suggest we do?
[Sigh] What a martyr craves more than anything is a sword to fall on, so you
sharpen the blade, hold it at just the right angle, and then 3, 2, 1-- It should be
me. It was my bill. No. Impossible. Donald, education has been your life's work.
[Grunt] The truth is my heart is not in this fight. You know me. I'm not a wheeler
dealer. I can put my mind to policy, but I'm no good at this brand of politics. Well,
if not you, then who? [Clock chimes] It should be you, Frank You're formidable.
People respect you. They will follow your lead. Let me-- let me be on the sidelines
for this. Well, I could only consider that as an option if I knew that I could still
come to you for counsel. Of course. Whatever you need. [Sigh] Thank you,

Donald. Happy to do it, Frank. He has no idea we've got six kids in the next room
already working on a new draft. Stamper! But why dampen his mood by telling
him? We just gave him a great gift-- a chance to fulfill his destiny. Write up a
statement for Blythe-- stepping aside, fresh ideas, et cetera, et cetera, and make
it dignified. He's a good man.
There's no direct linkI can't get this past Messerschmidt. Remember this moment
when you resisted me, when you said the words "Then there is no story. Get a
good night's sleep, Ms. Barnes. You have a big day tomorrow.
There's a gym in the Capitol Which you never use. Because I'm a tad busy
running the country. But not at home, so now you have no excuse. I want it out.
Give it a try first. Is this your subtle way of saying that I'm out of shape? No, it's
my way of suggesting you could be in better shape. That sounds both passiveaggressive and condescending. Just plain aggressive and true.
We don't have to print it. I could just scan the thing, stick it on a site, and tweet
the link. But if I did that, some other paper might-- Whoa, whoa. Don't be a bitch.
I'll talk to Tom. That's all I was asking.
I can tell you without a shadow of a doubt I did not write these words. But were
they in line with your thinking at the time? [Laughing] This is ludicrous. That's all
we need-- him laughing. [George] I know it was a long time ago-- Nancy, get me
Dennis Mendel of the ADL The Middle East is a vital American interest. What you
think about the Middle East is relevant. You can look at my voting record. Every
single vote has been in defense of Israel-- So when did your views change? What
I'm saying to you is my-- What's important now, George, is how I have voted
while I have represented the great state of Colorado I understand that's your
position, but a lot of other people are going to look at it and think what you
thought then is relevant as well. Have you ever changed your views - since
college? - I'm not the nominee for Secretary of State. Uh, even if I did have-- It's
golden. It's a bull's eye. What were you saying when you came in? So, ahem, I
found a guy who was on the college editorial staff when Kern was there.
You look sexy when you're improving the lives of hardworking Pennsylvanians.
Is it the improving lives, or is it these fetching sweat pants? Move that computer
out of the way. Let me see what that looks like. Yeah, it's better with the laptop.
I've ever actually witnessed it before. Well, here it is in all its glory.
- You should head to the airport. - This is coming from Frank? No. This is coming
from no one. You have the flu, and you're calling in sick. Is that a hickey? Are
you whoring around again? - No. I have a girlfriend. - Mm. You mean your little
office romance. What do you know about that? When it comes to your life, Peter,
and what I know about it, you should assume that there's no such thing as a
secret. Stay in touch. You call me on my cell, never at the office. Good luck.
Knock 'em dead, tiger.
We do not consider the issue of Israel and Palestine a laughing matter. And he
calls Israel illegal. Well, he's an anti-semite, and he is wrong. We would have
grave, grave concerns about appointing such a man our next Secretary of State.
It's too easy.
$10,000. What will that get me? I mean, I'm kinky, but I don't know if I'm the girl
you're looking for. You're definitely the girl that I'm looking for. Excuse me. All I

want for that money is your silence. My what? The guy you were with the other
night, the one who was arrested, do you know who he was? You mean the
congressman? There was no congressman. There was no arrest. None of that
exists. All that exists is the money sitting right there in front of you. Do you
understand? Yeah. Good. Open your mouth. Last little bit's for me.
You're scolding me. Am I? You are, silently. - Is it the rowing machine? - You tell
me. It's the rowing machine. - You haven't used it. - How do you know I haven't?
Francis. You know I don't like to be managed. I'm not trying to manage you. I
just don't want to outlive you by 25 years. I must walk three miles a day around
that Capitol. I'm constantly on my feet. And do you know how many calories the
brain burns? I'm not worried about your brain. - It's your heart we're talking
about. - [Inhales deeply] Use the machine. She's right. I should take better care
of myself. But it's the principle. I won't be a slave to anybody or anything you
can order with a toll-free number
Come on. You gotta get a grip on who your masters are. The I.M.F., the World
Bank, the Rockefeller Trilateral Commission. You bankroll their fucking death
squads. It's called FEMA; it's called alcohol, tobacco, and firearms; NATO; Border
Control. You think Katrina was incompetence? That was highly orchestrated
negligence. Look at Waco, Amnesty International, the A.C.L.U. Smokescreens-all of them. Blood on their hands. Well, exactly. You want me to lie to the people.
I want you to spare the people another hypocrite. - What's in it for you? - [Sighs]
Poetic justice. Oh, come on. You're one of them. Can a corporate sellout roll a
joint like this?
Can I say "A source
close to the White House"? No. You let this story
play out on its own time. They'll announce in the morning. I'm sorry. If not that,
what story are we talking about? Catherine Durant. As soon as Kern withdraws,
you
say she'll be the replacement. - Is that true?
- It will be after you write it. Roy Kapeniak was you. You might very well think
that. I couldn't possibly comment. You found him. You had him call me. Kapeniak
and Kern were appetizers, Miss Barnes. Catherine Durant is the meal. Say that
name: Catherine Durant. Say it over and over Tomorrow afternoon, write it down,
and then watch that name come out of the mouth of the President of the United
States. This is where we get to create. Don't miss your train, Miss Barnes. It's the
last one tonight. Zoe Barnes with the Washington Herald now reporting, quoting a
source close to the president, as saying that Senator Catherine Durant will likely
be the new nominee for Secretary of State after Michael Kern's withdrawal earlier
this week The president should stop this pageant and simply make the call. Why
are we still talking about, if they're going to nominate Durant? Why don't they
just do it already so we can all stop talking about ifs and start talking about when
and what and how Durant's going to shape up foreign policy...
- I so apologize for everything-- - No, no, no, n-- it's not necessary. Now for the
real meeting. So what is happening with Michael Kern? Oh, it's a total
nightmare. You know who you're gonna tap next? Frank, we still need you in the

house-- No, no, no. I wouldn't dream of it. We've got our education bill. I was just
curious. Somehow the rumor is flying around that we're gonna nominate
Catherine Durant. - I'm sure you've noticed. - Is the rumor true? - Interesting. What do you think? Well, she wouldn't be my first choice-- Who would be your
first choice? She campaigned hard against us in the primaries. - That's my
reservation. - But you'd show yourself above party politics, and I know she'd
work all the harder for it. Decent experience, respect across the aisle. So you
think we can seriously consider her? It's not the worst idea in the world.
What a roller coaster. It really is too bad. Kern was a good man. - And now
Catherine Durant. - Yes. Right place, right time, I suppose. - We like her, don't
we? - Very much. Question is, does she like San Corp as much as we like her? I
would say that that is a very good bet. But then again, I'm not a betting man. No. You always like a sure thing. - When it avails itself. - Good night, Remy. Good night, Frank. - See you around. - Hopefully less and less now.
- What's going on? - Some guy was trying to get into the building. When we said
no, he started tearing his clothes off. - [Siren wailing] - [Yelling continues]
Nobody can hear you. Nobody cares about you. Nothing will come of this. Why
don't you let these nice gentlemen take you home? [Radio chatter continues]
Cover him up. It's cold out here. [Officer] You heard the congressman. Cover him
up.
Ch 2.
It's worth throwing Gaffney under the bus to drag you into the mess. He's after
my seat again. Has he learned absolutely nothing? It's a full-on smear campaign,
boss. He's out to destroy you. With this? It's a peach, for Christ sake. Let him
make a fool out of himself. No, he will make a fool out of you. If he spins this
right, gets national coverage-Now, Marty, cut me a little slack here. We'll get it done. You and I go way back.
Have I ever let you down? No, you haven't. And I don't intend to start now.
You want my source? Tom says you won't tell him I haven't told anyone. Well, I
own the paper. And I'm very grateful to be working here. So you're not going to
tell me either. Which do you want, my source or my integrity? Tom. Move Zoe's
piece to the front page of Sunday's edition.
I try to make it down here at least once a month. Every trip is a reminder of how
far I've come. I hated Gaffney as a kid, when I had nothing, but now I've come
to appreciate it. It's not as suffocating as it once was, except when I have to
deal with the sort of nonsense that makes me want to hang myself.
How about I help you lock up that seat? I'm not looking to make a deal, Frank.
It's not a deal. It's an opportunity. I'll be just fine You may despise me, Orrin,
but the classy thing to do would've been to invite us up for some of that iced
tea.
No offense, Frank, but you just got here. We've been dealing with this for the last
week now. And where's your solution? What? You think you know better than
us? I'm just trying to be realistic. Frank, I know you want to swoop down and
save the day, but there's a principle at stake here. We allow ourselves to be
extorted because of this teenager-- When Orrin gets a jury to weep a river of

snot over this dead girl, when Gaffney goes tits up because you can't afford to
pay a seven-figure award in damages, when you all get booted out of office and
I lose to Chase, then you can chew my ear off about principles, because we'll all
have nothing but time on our hands. Until then, you either contribute, or you
keep it shut, Travis. Now, here's what we're going to do. Gene, how much can
we pull together - for a settlement if we had to? - About 150. That'll work.
Jamie, get your boys do wn to the hardware store to build two billboards. Put
them out a mile out on either side of the tower. Have them read, "drive safely. No
texting behind the wheel." About 50,000 a year. Jesus, you could put a kid
through college on-- Let's use that money to start a scholarship fund in her name.
Let's go find the parents. You hang back by the car. It's a big crowd, sir. If I get
shot or stabbed consoling two grieving parents, I'm a hero from now until the
end of time. Let's roll the dice. Shall we? Sir, I can't allow you to go unescorted
into all those people. Allow me? Let's get one thing straight, Meacham. You are
never to dictate what I can and cannot do. The only two words I want to hear
from you when I ask you to do something are "yes" and "sir." Is that
understood? Yes, sir. Good. Then we're gonna get along just fine. South
Carolina. District labour can you talk? not now. I'm in the middle of a thing.
What can it be just more than I do? They are not going to slow Can not be
stopped ? I did not even start ! I can not even imagine. I bet you can. I bet that
you HAVE. See you tomorrow STARTING POINT. I'll throw you a kiss. He's, uh-Tom has very high standards. I love him. He's a-- he's a great mentor.
Thank you, reverend, and thanks to that choir for that beautiful hymn. I
want to read, this morning, from... No. You know what no one wants to
talk about. Hate. I know all about hate. It starts in your gut, deep down
here, where it stirs and churns. And then it rises. Hate rises fast and
volcanic. It erupts hot on the breath. Your eyes go wide with fire. You
clench your teeth so hard you think they'll shatter. I hate you, God. I
hate you! Oh, don't tell me you haven't said those words before. I know
you have. We all have, if you've ever felt so crushing a loss. There are
two parents with us today who know that pain, the most terrible hurt of
all-- Losing a child before her time. If Dean and Leanne were to stand up
right now and scream those awful words of hate, could we blame them?
I couldn't. At least their hatred I can understand. I can grasp it, but
God's wantonness, his cruelty, I can't even begin to-- My father dropped
dead of a heart attack at the age of 43-- 43 years old-- and when he
died, I looked up to God and I said those words, because my father was
so young, so full of life, so full of dreams. Why would God take him from
us? Truth be told, I never really knew him or what his dreams were. He
was quiet, timid, almost invisible. My mother didn't think much of him.
My mother's mother hated him. The man never scratched the surface of
life. Maybe it's best he died so young. He wasn't doing much but taking
up space. But that doesn't make for a very powerful eulogy, now, does
it? I wept. I screamed, "why, God? How can I not hate you when you
steal from me the person I most love and admire in this world? I don't
understand it, and I hate you for it." The Bible says in proverbs, "Trust
in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding."
Lean not on your own understanding. God is telling us to trust him, to
love him despite our own ignorance. After all, what is faith if it doesn't

endure when we are tested the most? We will never understand why
God took Jessica or my father or anyone. And while God may not give us
any answers, he has given us the capacity for love. Our job is to love
him without questioning his plan. So I pray to you, dear Lord, I pray to
you to help strengthen our love for your and to embrace Dean and
Leanne with the warmth of your love in return. And I pray that you will
help us fend off hatred so that we may all truly trust in you with all our
hearts and lean not on our own understanding. Amen.
Tell them that I'll roll over on performance standards, five-year intervals. It
should be you telling them that, Frank, you here, at this table. I know that. I'm
doing the best I can but I can't be in two places at once. Now, look. I promise
you, if you keep them in that room, we will get through this hump as soon as I
get back. Marty, you are their lobbyist. You know what's best for them. Save
them from themselves. Okay, I'll see what I can do. Stamper. Do not let Spinella
out of your sight and lock the goddamn doors if you have to. You got it.
You don't have health insurance, do you? Nope. I'll make an appointment for you
to see my personal GP tomorrow. Medicine doesn't really do much. You have to
let it run its course. Well, we'll let it run its course under proper supervision. I
won't take no for an answer on this. - Claire-- - I'll drag you to the hospital myself
if I have to. You're going to the doctor. No argument. Thanks. Well, I'm not used to
it, but it beats malaria You've had malaria. You make a lot of sacrifices. I don't
see it as a sacrifice. You turned down a six-figure salary at Google to start your
own non-profit. People don't get malaria in Palo Alto. You do your research
When it's someone I care about. Claire, I turned down that job because I
would've hated myself. It was a lot of money, but for what? So they could fulfill
their diversity quota with an Asian girl peddling a Stanford degree? Not just any
Asian girl. A valedictorian. Let me offer you what Google couldn't. I know what
it is to be capable and beautiful and ambitious and be on people like Sergey and
Larry's checklist of things that look good to have on a shelf. I'm not trying to
acquisition you. What I see in you is a woman I admire, which doesn't happen
often. I want to enable you. I want to clear the way for you so that you can
achieve what you want to achieve, on your own terms. Thanks for the tea. And I
will send a car to pick you up for the doctor tomorrow. When you're back on your
feet, do you think maybe we can work something out? Yes, I think we could.
Honestly, what's to be gained in dredging up all this stuff?
Remembering the good things helps sometimes-- Not when it puts my
wife in tears. I appreciate what you said at the church, but it doesn't do
us any good. Neither does this. Well, what can I do to help? You can't do
anything. She's gone. You're right. I can't change that, but I can make
sure the city offers you a sizable settlement. You mean buy us off? No, I
mean help you avoiding years of court battles. Jessica was going to go
to Furman. Is that right? On a volleyball scholarship? Yes, a full ride.
Well, I spoke to the president of the university this morning, and we'd
like to create a new scholarship in your daughter's name. If you'd like
that It's entirely up to you. But, most importantly, we have to make sure
that this never happens again. We've got safety billboards going up,
we're going to stop lighting the tower at night, and we're putting the
guard rails in. Should've done all that before she ran off the road. Would
you like me to resign, Mr. masters? Just say the word, and it's done. If it

will bring you any satisfaction. I asked the reverend once, "What are we
supposed to do in the face of so much senseless pain?" And he said to
me, "what else can we do but take what seems meaningless and try to
make something meaningful from it." He's right. That's how God works-Through us. Will you let me work for you? What you have to understand
about my people is that they are a noble people. Humility is their form
of pride. It is their strength, it is their weakness, and if you can humble
yourself before them, they will do anything you ask. Tell us more about
the scholarship.
What do you think? Let's see what it looks like. Picture this-- A 17-year-old girl
traveling at 60 miles an hour spins out of control in no traffic. She hits a guard
rail. But if she's wearing her seatbelt, which she was, and her car doesn't roll
over three times down a 20-foot ditch, which it did, then that young woman is
still alive. But you know what? The county administrator didn't build those guard
rails, so now she's dead. We looked up the statute. Guard rails are under county
supervision. Are you trying to turn this around on me? That's not all, Orrin. Your
easement. You see, every couple of years the piedmont electric, they apply to
bring power lines through Gaffney. The route comes right through your lot. Now,
gene and I always fight them off, but this year, if they were to reapply, hmm...
Eminent domain. It would be such a shame to have to tear down this beautiful
home. Fuck you, Frank. You can't just roll up on my property and act like you
own it. Oh, but I can. We just did. I've won this district 11 times. Do you think
that's just luck and a firm handshake? But I'll tell you what. I'm not a vindictive
person. I don't like for anybody to lose if everybody can win, so I'm going to help
you get elected in the fourth. so I'm going to help you get elected in the fourth.
We put the Peachoid behind us, and everybody's happy. What do you say? Well,
that's all right. You think about it. I'm sure you'll do the right thing. Oh, and I'm
looking forward to having you in congress, Orrin. It's always good to have friends
on the other side of the aisle.
I've been offered a spot on Nightline. You want my advice? I don't want it. I need
it. Close your eyes. Okay. It's 11:25. Nightline is about to come on. Millions of
people are watching. Where are you, home? No. At the studio? Yes. And what do
you see? I see lights. I see a camera. And that little red dot goes on. Tell me what
you hear? I hear my voice. And those millions of people, what do they hear? My
voice. And what do they see? My face. So you don't need my advice.
Hammerschmidt's going to freak. You don't want to work anywhere you're not
willing to get fired from, Zoe. Treading water's the same as drowning for people
like you and me. Good luck. I'll be watching.
Here's what I think. I wish I could be bigger than this, but I can't, and I'm being
selfish, and I realize it's mostly about me, but fuck it. I have to say it. Please don't
take that other job, Christina. Anyway, that's how I feel. I'm glad you told me.
Ch.4.
It's there for leverage so that we can lock down performance standards. You
don't toss around their right to collective bargaining like a poker chip. If we
don't, they won't budge. Has Marty Spinella seen this? Not the version I showed
him. So you lied to his face. No. I revised the parameters of my promise. Which
is lying. Which is politics... the sort you're well versed in, Bob. Here's some

politics for you. I allow this to go to the floor, I get murdered next election. This
is coming from the President. Last time I checked, I was still a Democrat, Frank,
and you were too. Are you telling me the President isn't? Because he's acting a
hell of a lot like a Republican. I thought Bob was on our team. Just sit him down
with the President ten minutes. We won't touch collective bargaining. Are you
interested in my advice on this, I'm always interested in your advice, Frank.
Birch is right. You're going to burn a lot of bridges. And don't forget, you work for
me, Frank, not him. If he wants something on the floor, he's gonna have to talk
to me directly. I know you take a lot of pride in your manhood, Bob, and it's
impressive, but as big as it is, Linda can still shut the door on it. Tell Vasquez
the bill is dead. That's not the first time he's pulled that stunt on me. Probably
should have held my tongue, but I just couldn't resist the chance to see him
shrivel.
two freshmen girls are moving into their dorm room together. One of them's from
Georgia, one of them's from Connecticut. The girl from Connecticut's helping her
mother put up curtains. The girl from Georgia turns to them and says, "hi. Where
y'all from?" The girl from Connecticut says, "we're from a place where we know
not to end a sentence with a preposition." The girl from Georgiasays, "oh, beg
my pardon. Where y'all from... Cunt?" You heard that one before? A version of it.
With softer language. Tom, we don't need people who follow the rules. We need
people with personality. We want Zoe's face, her energy. We want to get her on
TV as much as possible. It helps us cut through the noise. See what I'm saying? I
hear you, Margaret. Thank you, Tom.
They've doubled it to 1.5 million. - You said no, right? - I didn't. He doesn't want
anything from you, Francis. Come on, Claire. You know better than that I
specifically asked. Maybe not right now, but look, I invented this guy, all right? It's
a slippery slope. You open the... Think of what I can do with this money. I can hire
back the people I let go. I can help accelerate the funding for the projects that
Gillian has brought in. Let's find another way to raise the money. But it's right
there at my feet. Claire, I have too much on my plate right now. I can't have San
corp breathing down my neck again. I can't have Remy... look, it is Remy. He
knows me too well. It's dangerous. Look at the bigger picture here. I'm asking.
No. You're not. Claire. I'll tell you what I told him. Which was? I'll think about it.
David Rasmussen is the majority leader, which means he's one step above me
and one below Birch, which is akin to being between a very hungry wolf and a
very quarrelsome sheep. Let's see if he stays with the herd or joins the pack.
David. You mind if I join you? Please. A salad, huh Yes. I'm trying to take better
care of myself. Good man. Diet? Diet, exercise, everything. You ought to take
better care of yourself too. Well, they should stop serving such good pizza. Oh,
I'm not talking about the food. I'm talking about Birch. You are never going to be
speaker unless you do something about it. I'm very satisfied where I am. - Oh,
come on. - For the time being, yeah. Time being never. The only way you become
speaker is if Birch loses his district or retires, neither of which is going to happen
before you and I have dentures. I'm not happy where this conversation is going,
Frank. If you want it, and I know you do, there's a way. Okay. Right. I can't... all
you need is a simple majority... 218 votes We're going to get at least 205 out of
the G.O.P., and after that, all you need is 13 Democrats. You and I make two. Are
you out of your mind? Just consider it for a moment. You want to collude with the
Republicans? I don't want to, but I would if you become speaker in the process

Never been done before. There's a first time for everything. This is ridiculous. The
Republicans would love a chance to knock Bob down a peg or two. And you want
to help them. I want to help us. Bob will not play ball with the White House. Now,
you're a reasonable man, David, and he's not. You know what I am? I'm a discreet
man. You're lucky for that. I'm not going to mention this to Bob, but if you ever
bring it up again, I won't have a choice. Looks like he opted for the herd.
Ramirez is a neutral? Oh, this list is so shaky. Any one of them leaks it to Bob...
no, what we need is one name, one person who can deliver 12. The black
caucus. Womack. What can we offer him? What does he need? Let me pull up
his file. Here we go McCudden air force base employs 3,000 people in his
district It's on the D.O.D.'s chopping block this year. Who do we know on the
Brack commission? That's dangerous. The trail leads back to us trying to
influence the D.O.D. or the Brack. No, no, no. What we do is we close another
base. We leave enough money n the D.O.D.'s budget to keep Womack's base off
the list. What we need.. Dad, I'm hungry.
Oh, thanks. Is that a ps vita? Uh... Which games does he have? All of
them. I have a console at home. I play sometimes to relax. I ought to get
one of these for the car. So, Peter, we need to close the shipyard in your
district. The Brack hearing is tomorrow. You won't put up your usual
fight. You have zero testimony to add. I can't do that. Yes, you can,
Peter. I spent months on that testimony. I lobbied the commission. My
entire office... I'm sure you've done splendid work, but unfortunately it
can't come to fruition. - Why? - Politics. There's forces bigger than
either of us at play here It's 12,000 jobs. I know. It's a shame. Keeping
that shipyard open is what got me elected. Those people are my friends.
I'm not here to debate this, Peter. The base will clos The only question
is, will you make it a swift death or a painful one? No way. I won't sit on
my hands. I sympathize that this is gonna be difficult for you. And I
don't know how yet, but I will make it up to you, Peter. I'm a powerful
friend to have right now, perhaps your only friend, so don't defy me.
Love of family. Most politicians are permanently chained to that
slogan... family values. But when you cozy up to hookers and I find out, I
will make that hypocrisy hurt.
Did you get the present I sent you? You wouldn't really call it a present. Well,
more of a gentle reminder, maybe. Mm, more heavy-handed than gentle, which
surprised me. It's not really your style, Francis. But, yes. I got it.
Adam? How is it the world keeps spinnin and you manage to stay ahead of it?
David's on board with this? It was his idea. Then why isn't he here? Well, we have
to be careful until it's a done deal. I don't know, Frank. Think about it, Terry. You
could become the first African-American majority leader in the United States
congress Let's make some history. You don't care about history. You just wanted
me because I can round up the votes. I need the votes, and I do care about
history, but most importantly, Terry, you know how to lead. You're the head of the
black caucus for a reason. So David becomes speaker, I become majority leader...
and I stay on as whip. Why don't you want majority leader for yourself? I'm
satisfied where I am. Maybe one day, when you become speaker, you'll bump me
up. This is the sort of thing that there's no turning back. I can throw a cherry on

top. McCudden stays open. How? You don't want to know how. You just want the
headline when you keep 3,000 jobs in your district. - 12 votes? - 12 votes. I can
get you 10, probably 11. It's so refreshing to work with someone who will throw a
saddle on a gift horse rather than look it in the mouth.
I'm sorry, Adam. I should've kept it business. Side of you I like the least There
are no mistakes, Claire.
I told him I'm not taking the money. Thank you. I appreciate that this was not
easy. Well, we don't like easy, do we? Oh, the evidence would suggest it. Is it all
right if the Holburns come over for dinner Wednesday night? I want Felicity to
buy some tables for the gala Yeah, of course. I'm going to need congressmen
and senators there. - You need to call in favors. - Done. Not a few, a lot. I'll start
making calls in the morning. Adam donated ten photographs. That was
generous of him. He's staying at the mandarin. And you? Here.
Uh, Terry, let me call you right back. Terry Womack? Possibly. I've had three
members of the Black Caucus tell me they're backing my play for the
speakership. - Interesting. - I have a sense you've been disseminating some
misinformation. No. I'm afraid it's you who are misinformed, David. You don't
have three members backing you. You have ten. I made it very clear I didn't want
any part of this. Yes, you made it crystal clear. Then why are you telling people?
Because they don't know you made it crystal clear. I have to go to Bob with this.
He'll think you organized a coup, got cold feet, and are making me the
scapegoat. David, if I pick up this phone right now and leak this story, Bob will
have no choice but to drop you, even if he believes your version of events. You
wanna take a seat?
- Jesus. - Oh, man, it was real. But, you know, that's why God gave us reflexes.
So we can move the fuck out of the way when a fridge come out of nowhere. How them ribs? - You know how they are. - You know I like to hear it. - Perfection,
Freddy. Perfection. - You go on ahead, Frank. - Thank you, Freddy. Mm-hmm. Well,
this is a surprise. - You usually text. - Where are you? On the other side of the
tracks trying to find the meaning of life. Did you find anything for me? You mean
anything newsworthy? Uh, I actually didn't call to badger you. Yes, you did, but
that's part of your charm. No. I wanted to tell you that I've been promoted to
White House correspondent. I'll have to travel with the press corps, be at
briefings but I can work around all that. If you need me. It won't change anything.
Oh, on the contrary. This changes everything. No. I can be flexible. I'm not
interested in someone who's flexible, I'm interested in someone who's available.
So you think I should turn it down? That's entirely up to you. Well, I mean, it's not
official yet. - I could... - Oh, look, I've got to go, but call me, you know, if
you find yourself available again. You see, Freddy believes that if a
fridge falls off a minivan, you better swerve out of its way. I believe it's
the fridge's job to swerve out of mine.
- I don't have much time, Frank. - I'll make it short. - The President? No. The speakership. David's making a play. - What? - He came to me
for support. My first thought was to tell you right away, but then my
second thought was to ignore my first thought because we have the
votes, Bob. If there had been a party revolt, I would've known about it.
We don't need the whole party to revolt. We need 13... 13 Democrats,

plus the other side of the aisle. Are you out of your mind? People have
been asking me that a lot lately. I'm inclined to start saying yes. Who
are they... the 13? David and I are two, Terry Womack, and ten
members of the black caucus make another 11. Is the President behind
this? No. He doesn't have a clue. This was David's plan executed by
me. But there is an out for you, Bob. I can sway Womack either way as
long as you make him the next majority leader. And... - The education
bill. - Now we're on the same page. I can't do that. You know I can't.
You're the speaker, Bob. You can do anything you'd like. And I have to
say, appointing the first African-American majority leader... why, that
isn't a bad legacy to have.
Get out. You're fired. Whatever you have to tell yourself, Tom. - Get out, Zoe. Just a second. I'm almost done. Don't you dare... you don't even know what I'm
typing. So should I press "send"? I think I should. Call me whatever you want,
but you should remember, these days, when you're talking to one person, you're
talking to a thousand.
You'll suck it up and be a team player.
This was Frank's idea. I told you he was gonna try to blame me on it. Ask
around. Talk to Womack. I did. He said you came to him. He's fucking lying, Bob!
I would never... shut up, David. Do you understand how you're to behave when
we make the announcement? And if I don't play along? Then the D-triple-C will
pour everything it's got into your primary opponent's campaign next cycle. We'll
cleave you from the herd and watch you die in the wilderness. Tell us now,
David. If you think it's best, Robert And just think, he could have been a wolf.
You made yourself available. I quit. Fuck that place. It was a prison. I'm free now.
Congratulations. Where are you? - In a car. - So am I. Where you headed? To your
home or mine? It's whatever you want it to be. - You sound tipsy. - I am. I just
spent the last two hours drinking Long Island Iced Teas. Do your parents know
you live like this? No. They haven't visited. Are you cared for? How do you mean?
Do you have a man who cares for you? - An older man. - No. But you've been with
older men before? Yes. Then you know they hurt you, and after they hurt you,
they discard you. You can't hurt me. Take your heels off.
Ch.5
All of my contacts are in there. Then it's time for you to get some new contacts.
Don't worry. I'll get you a phone. I'll get you two, in fact. One for work and a
burner for play. Expect them this afternoon.
Sounds like she's getting the better side of the bargain. She can be controlled.
Are you sure? She can. I promise you. Okay. If you say so. - The moment you
want me to end it-- - I know, Francis.
Marty Spinella, head lobbyist for the teachers' union. He wants to rip my head off
and peel it like an orange. Why? Because I lied to him. But what choice did I have
when the truth would've ended the conversation before it began?
Either you assure me right now that amendment is out or I'm walking out that
door and I'm gonna start launching missiles. There is a middle ground here,
Marty. We just have to find it. I take that as a no. Okay. Marty, do not start a

war you know you're gonna lose. You fuck me, I fuck back. Stamper! Marty and I
have a good working relationship. Or used to. You can see he has a temper, but I
can usually cut through that and reason with him. But I may have pushed him
too far, which is worrisome. Friends make the worst enemies. - How'd it go?
- A lot of "fucks." - Well, that pretty much says it. - What did you hear?
Patricia Whittaker, D.N.C. chair. A rare example of someone whose head is in the
game instead of up their backside. Competence is such an exotic bird in these
woods that I appreciate it whenever I see it.
You think Chuck Sloan will bite? Cooperate-- we'll give your people protection
and a place at the banquet. Fight us, we break you. He'll bite. Get him on the
phone. It's after 2:00. Spinella is potentially mobilizing the largest teachers'
strike in United States history. - Nobody's sleeping. - I'll call him right now. I'm
sorry. Are we being too loud? A little. - What are you working on?
- Where are you? - I'm at the office. - False. - You don't believe me? - Not for a
second. - Where are you? - About to walk into a meeting. - With who? Someone I
have to punish. - Give me a name. - No name. What did this person do wrong?
Lie to me. How will you punish him? What makes you think it's a him? Hold on. I
have to take this. Where are you? Me? I am not at the office. You're going to
give me a new one of these every week?
Peter Russo. He's a drunk. He is at the moment, a very functional one. Imagine
if he was sober. Even so, you run him for governor, people are going to dig into
his past. Well, we turn that into an asset, not a liability. Here's who I was. Here's
who I am now. You saw how they dismissed him in three seconds at the
leadership meeting. Patty Whittaker is very open-minded, and I am very
persuasive. You think Russo even wants it? Any kid who's made it from the
streets of South Philly to the Capitol Rotunda is ambitious. We just need to tap
into that surround him with the best people and then build the machine and
push the go button. So you think he could win. I think he can be a contender.
Okay, let's say we pull off a miracle and he wins. What do we gain by it? Isn't it
better to be holding he reins in this race than watching from the stands?
Your guests are your problem, not mine, Julian. I'll close the gate. You know, I'm
no expert in fire code, but I would imagine that locking your guests in is a bigger
violation than having them walk around us. This is trespassing on private
property. You're breaking the law. Right, okay. Let me get Barney Hull on the
phone here for you. Here you go. It's ringing. Who's Barney Hull? The police
commissioner. No? Okay. You'd rather talk to him in person, that's great. He's
coming to the party. I'll be sure to introduce him to you. Thanks for your
hospitality.
So what do you have for me? What do you mean? Well, you're surrounded by
Washington's elite. Are you saying you've overheard nothing that could be useful
to either of us? I'm covering the protest. The rest of the world is covering the
protest. You may not have noticed, but you're the only journalist inside the party.
I've been feeding you plenty. Information is a two-way street, Miss Barnes.
We're protesting the Congressmen and women themselves. Are these even
teachers picketing? Well, sure, some of them. And some of them are people in-Excuse me. Frank. What are you--? Don't take the food. We'll feed you later.

Marty, you know that old saying. The most dangerous spot in the world is to
come between a teamster and free food. Don't take the food. We're feeding you
later - I'll take it. - She'll take it. Who else is hungry? - There you go. - Pass it
back. Plenty more coming, guys. I know you've all been out here for hours.
Thank you, Freddy. The best ribs in D.C. Marty, come on. You said your piece.
You got on the news. Come and enjoy yourself. I respect you, Claire. You know I
can't do that. Doesn't matter what side you're on. Everybody's got to eat. You
can have a plate of ribs. Yes, you can. Come on. - I can't. - Yes, you can. Thank
you, Claire, but I cannot.
Hold on. I know who that is. Hello, Peter. I am starving. I forgot to eat. Would you
like something, Peter? You should eat. Don't fight. She'll win. I will. Okay. Yes. You
want some coffee? Yes. Thanks. Do you have any children? Married? What are
their names, your kids? Do you have any pictures? Fuck! I lost my phone. I--sorry.
I should-- uh, I gotta go. Peter, sit down. You're gonna enjoy your sandwich, have
some coffee, and stay the night. Milk and sugar? Black. Some fresh towels. There
should be soap and toothpaste, everything you need in the bathroom. Thank you
so much for doing this. Oh, it's nothing. Sleep well. What's going on, Peter? Talk
to me. You think fresh towels changes anything? Changes what? The shipyard. If I
was home and you pulled that shit, I'd beat the fuck out of you. I would crack
your skull on the pavement. That's why I came over here today, to fuck you up
for what you made me do. I don't care how nice you're being to me. I don't give a
shit. I'm gonna wake up tomorrow... and all these people... all my friends... are
still fucked. And I'm still fucked You fucked all of us. But I'm gonna get blamed for
it. So now I have to carry that weight on my shoulders. You fucked me, Frank. I
shouldn't have let you do it, but I did. Are you done now? Get up. - No. - I
said get up. And follow me. Now. Get in. Take off your clothes and get in.
Do it. Now. There was a D.N.C. meeting earlier this week. About the
governor's race. Your name came up as someone we might want to run.
Aspirin. Go ahead. Everyone in that room wanted to cross you off the
list. I said no. I stuck up for you. I said, "Peter Russo, he's got potential.
He's young. He's capable. He's going places." I made them keep you in
contention. You're still on that list. You show up at my house in the
middle of the night, drunk, to whine, to try to shift the blame on me
instead of taking responsibility for yourself and your own actions.
Maybe they were right in that meetin Maybe you are worthless. I'm the
only person who believes in you, Peter, but maybe that's one too many.
The hot water will open up your capillaries. The aspirin you just took will
make your blood thinner. It's up to you, Peter. Oh, and if you do decide
to take the coward's way out cut along the tracks, not across them.
That's a rookie mistake. Morning. You need a lift to the hill? I should go
home and change my clothes. No, no, we'll drop you. Want some coffee?
Frank.. One month. Hmm? One month sober. I can give you that. Not for
me. For you. Has the seed been planted? Only Peter can answer that
question. He has a choice. Will he wither or will he thrive? Only time will
tell.
Ch.6
There's a big difference between taking a stand and sitting on your hands. I
don't know whether to call it cowardice... It's his agenda, and the problem is that
he stole sound, conservative ideas. The only smart thing he's done is lift his

platform from the republican platform. I admit it, Linda. This got away from me.
But we can't turn back time. We have to hold our ground. While our approval
ratings continue to nosedive? Well, I didn't think he'd be insane enough to go on
strike, and I didn't think the strike would last this long. So you've been wrong
twice about this. Why should I believe you're right about holding out? We
threatened collective bargaining That's the deal that we made. We took that
stand. We lay down now, we lose it all. There'll be no reform, just an empty bill. I
understand the logic, Frank, but we're in damage control now. We can't close one
wound by opening another But we're the democrats. We're the ones who are
supposed to be defending the teachers. But you can't have it both ways, Linda.
You can't have the reform you want and keep the teachers happy at the same
time. You knew that when we started. Okay, then if we have to choose, we
choose to keep the teachers happy. That is a mistake, Linda. We've already
crossed the rubicon. I'm telling you this-- the president wants to change the bill.
We should've done itthree weeks ago. We didn't. So you have to do it now Give
me more time, Linda, please. If I can break this strike and get everything we want
in this bill, can we agree that's preferable to folding? Of course. If we can count
on that-- Then count on me for just one more week. If the strike isn't over by
then, I'll change the bill. - Frank-- - No. One more week. That's al This is the worst
possible position to be in. If I water down the bill, the president will still me as a
failure. If the strike doesn't end in a week, I forced myself into a corner. Only total
victory will putme back in his good graces. The alternative is exile, which would
mean the last five months were for nothing. I cannot abide falling back to square
one.
Nah, it's too broad. We need a better sound bite. Something specific, something
that points the finger directly at Spinella. - He'll deny any involvement. - Of
course he will. - So how do we get around that? - We say he can't control his
troop - There's no evidence it was a teacher. - Who else could it be? He's gonna
shift blame for the strike back on congress. No. We need something clear,
something clean, something that sticks in your head. "Teachers need a lesson in
self-restraint." No. You're not hearing me. People like teachers. No. We need
something that makes Spinella the villain. - His lack of control, his inability-- Disorganized labor. It's disorganized labor, plain and simple. When you've got
angry teachers throwing bricks through congressmen's windows, you've gotta
blame the union leadership.
You all right? I saw the news. Yes, I'm fine. That's gotta rattle the nerves-- A
bric coming through the window. It did, some. So are you staying in the house?
We've got extra security now, so... Well, um, it made me think of you, so I
figured I'd just check in. I appreciate that. We still haven't talked, have we? There's no need to. - I think we should. Here's how I see it. You asked me to
come down. I did. We both had ideas about what that could mean. Probably very
similar ideas. But then you changed your mind. So be it. There's no reason we
can't be in touch or remain friends. Let's not fool ourselves, Adam. So I won't
call again. - Done. - I'm not saying that. What are you saying? I just called
because I care about you. No agenda. If you wanna talk again, call me. If not, I
understand. It's up to you. You think I'm being unreasonable? I think you're
doing whatever it is you need to do, and I'm not gonna question it. It was sweet
of you to call. Listen, you probably need to get back to work. I know I do. I
should go.

I haven't had a drink in over a month. I'm clean. Is that because I asked, or
because it's what you want? It was about time I took responsibility for myself.
Taking responsibility is one thing, and it's admirable. But running for governor of
a major state is a whole other ball game. Let me tell you something, Frank. I got
elected to congress 'cause I seized the moment that opportunity struck. You kept
me on that list. I wanna seize that opportunity. If you help me out, I'll give you
everything I got. Well, that's all I've been waiting to hear. All right. I'll tell you
what. I need to make some calls, check in with some people. Give me a few days.
I'll get back to you. - Of course. - And, Peter.. I feel like I've met the real you for
the first time just now.
Okay. Okay. I get it. I get it. But I wanna be smart about this. I wanna do
something definitive that'll put this to bed - and get us back on message. - CNN,
one on one, you and Underwood. 8:00 tonight. Frank is excellent in debates. Go
strong against him. Address the brick right to his face. - End of story. - Underwood
says he's in if you are.
I understand, but I could really use your help, Claire. Does Catherine Durant still
owe us? When you make someone Secretary of State, they owe you for life. We're
having trouble getting our water filters through sudanese customs. I'm ready for
battle. You wanna come watch? - No. You go on ahead. - Oh, come on. Watch me
put the final nail in Spinella's coffin. It'll be fun. Yes, I would. Two billion dollars
of taxpayer's money being wasted. And congress should be ashamed of itself for
that, Frank. Oh, what? Did congress force the teachers to go on strike? - No, we
didn't. - Really, Frank? When you threaten teachers' ability to negotiate as a
union, when you threaten their job security, you threaten their livelihood, of
course you force them to strike. And did we also force them to start throwing
bricks at people's houses? I'm really glad you brought that up, because you know
there's absolutely no proof that that incident had anything to do with this strike.
And I wanna take the opportunity to say publicly that we categorically condem
any use of violence whatsoever or intimidation. What you're saying essentially is
that you can't control your own people. - That is not what I'm saying. - That is
what you're saying. You're disorganized. - Disorganized labor. - You can keep
trotting out that phrase all you like, but you know what I'd like to do, Frank? I
would like to get back to the issue here of educating our children and the fact
that congress is not living up to their commitment. Well, you know what I would
like? What? An apology. If not to me, then to my wife. When that brick came
through our window, it was terrifying. She's standing right over there. - Claire? We need camera two on the wife. Now, why don't you look her in the eye and tell
her that your people had nothing to do with that brick. - Are you serious? - Yes.
Mrs. Underwood, Claire, I am sincerely sorry that you had to go through that
ordeal, truly. And it actually sickens me that someone made you feel unsafe in
your own home. And I give you my word that to the best of my knowledge,
00:20:13,080 --> 00:20:16,320 none of our people had anything to do with it. But
you know what sickens me more? That right now, your husband is using you as a
prop on national television to try and win a debate. So I think you're the one that
owes your wife an apology, Frank. And when you're done apologizing, can we
please get back to the issue here of educating our children? No. You've got this
wrong, Marty. There is no "you" and "I" in education. Well, I mean, yes, there's the
letters So, what, we're gonna waste the rest of this debate naming all the vowels
in-- I'm happy to play the vowel game. You wanna play the vowel game with me?

Interesting. You left out E for "Education." You like sesame street so much? Why
don't you give the kids the money they deserve? Well, I guess school's still in
session. I had no intention of bringing you into this. It wasn't part of a plan. I
would've told you if it was I know. The idea just struck me, and I went with it. I
don't mind that you improvised. I just wish you'd done it better.
Good. The first thing we need to address is your sobriety. Oh, you don't need to
worry about that. Have you been going to meetings You mean AA? - Yes. That's not really my thing. If you want my help, then going to meetings is my
one requirement. I know I had a problem, Frank. I accept that. And I've taken
responsibility for that, but I don't think going to meetings is necessary. You
cannot white-knuckle your recovery, Peter. This campaign will be the hardest
thing you've ever done in your life. I realize that. I'm prepared for that. You
think you are. But we can't take any chances. The party's investing in you. I
need to make sure you're investing in yourself. All right. I'll do whatever I have to
do. Good. You'll start tomorrow morning. - Doug will take you. - Stamper? He's
been sober 14 years. Doug has a drinking problem? Had. Not anymore. He'll be
your sponsor. In the meantime, I want you to meet with my wife, Claire. She
runs the clean water initiative.
Mr. President? I want it over. As soon as possible. Gut the bill, Frank. Do
whatever's necessary to end this. Mr. President, if we give in now, the public
won't credit you with a victory. Not even a hollow one. They'll chalk it up as a
colossal defeat. Well, that's on you, Frank. You let this situation devolve to where
it is. I've already been blamed for the largest teacher's strike in US history. I
won't be held accountable for it dragging on months and months. Mr. President,
we have to end this strike on your terms. Not anyone else's. How? By debating
Marty Spinella on CNN? Sir, you have placed your faith in me thus far I would
ask that you continue to do so. Whatever you're doing, Frank, isn't working, so
I'm stepping in. Gut the bill. Like Linda said. No. I'm sorry, Mr. President, but I
will not do that. Are you letting pride cloud your judgment, Frank? Respectfully,
sir, you're allowing fear to cloud yours. Not an easy thing to say no to the most
powerful man in the free world. But sometimes the only way to gain your
superior's respect is to defy him. What do we have on the schedule, Linda?
Do you believe in karma? Absolutely not. Well, I do. At least tonight. Get
Captain Cardiff on the phone. Let's do something about Meechum. What? Get
him his job back. He fired his weapon. He overreacted. Cardiff. On the phone.
Now. Nancy, give me Captain Cardiff, please. We might as well do one
productive thing while we wait. It requires very little of me and will mean the
world to him. It's a very inexpensive investment. Captain, I know it's late, but
I'd like to talk to you about Edward Meechum.
He told me you called, and I can't tell you how grateful I am. I want you to listen
very closely to what I'm about to say. From this moment on, you are a rock. You
absorb nothing, you say nothing, and nothing breaks you. - Is that clear? - Yes,
sir. Welcome back.
You know what Francis said to me when he proposed? I remember his exact
words. He said, "Claire, if all you want is happiness, say no. I'm not gonna give
you a couple of kids and count the days until retirement. I promise you freedom
from that. I promise you'll never be bored." You know, he was the only man--

and there were a lot of others who proposed. But he was the only one who
understood me. He didn't put me on some pedestal. He knew that I didn't want
to be adored or coddled. So he took my hand and he put a ring on it. Because
he knew I'd say yes He's a man who knows how to take what he wants. Is this
what you wanted? Is that the way you wanted it? Please. Please. Stop. You told
me your truth. Now you know mine.
This is work, not play. Then why'd you bother coming over? I was hoping you'd
answer the door naked. That would be play. That would be work with a view.
Sorry to disappoint. How many characters in a tweet? 140. Type this, let me
know where you land. "Eight-year-old Washington DC boy killed by a stray bullet
in gangland shoot-out." 61 characters lef "Should have been in school"? 30 left.
"Spinella to blame?" 128. Press "send." Now give me a name, details. Tyler
Davis. Third grader at Vernon Baker Elementary. Shot outside his home in
southeast just before noon today. Sent. Where are you going? - To see the
mother. - You don't wanna...? There's work to do. I'll see you later tonight.
If Tyler's school had been in session, this senseless killing would have never taken
place. We need to end this strike now and get all our children back in school
where they belong before we risk another death like this. So, Mr. Spinella, I am
headed to the capitol right now, and I will remain there until you are ready to
meet and talk so that we can end this pointless strike.
You said you wanted to talk. You said you wanted to work out a
compromise. I lied. Excuse me? I have no intention of working out a
compromise. So then why the fuck are we here, Frank? What the hell's
the matter with you? You think this is some kind of a game? No. These
are real people with families to feed. Would you please stop that? Stop
what? In five seconds, I'm out of here. One. Two. Three. - Four. Goodbye, Frank. You know the difference between you and me, Marty?
What? I'm a white-trash cracker from a white-trash town that no one
would even bother to piss on. But here's the difference-- I've made
something of myself. I have the keys to the capitol. People respect me.
But you, you're still nothing. You're just an uppity dago in an expensive
suit turning tricks for the unions. Nobody respects the unions anymore,
Marty. They're dying. And no one respects you. The most you'll ever
make of yourself is blowing men like me. Men with real power. Yes. I can
smell the cock on your breath from here. You think you can get under
my skin? I know I can. Kiss my ass, Frank. You can't afford to walk out.
Watch me. I've got a dead, underprivileged kid in my pocket. What do
you have? I have 2 million honorable teachers. Fair enough. But I got
something even better. Go ahead. Open it. Okay. I'll play your game.
You're an idiot. Stamper threw it. You're full of shit. Oh, no, Stamper
threw the brick. And I made sure Claire distracted my security. Are you
kidding me? And to think you wanted me to apologize to my wife. You
would do something that low, Frank? I arranged the brick, Marty, just
like I arranged this meeting this afternoon. Back off, Frank. Why don't
you just get down on your knees - where you really belong? - Back off,
Frank. Because the only thing you're gonna get from me - is come on
your-- - Fuck you! Everything okay in there? Look, I'll-- I'll tell them you
provoked me. I'll tell them that you threw the brick yourself. And who's
going to believe you? You just assaulted a United States congressman,

which is a felony. But I'm not gonna press charges, Marty. Because the
strike ends now. You think it'll leave a scar? I have a thick skin. The next
time you ask me to invite someone in for coffee, will you please make
sure no guns go off? I'll do my best.
Ch. 7
I haven't heard from you in three weeks. Insecurity bores me. I feel the same
way about condescension. Your place, this evening, and I'll text you when I'm
about to arrive. What if I'm busy? You're just afraid I'm gonna stand you up
again. I just wanna make sure it's worth my while. It'll be worth your while.
This'll make up for last time. From the President's hand to yours.
You believe in all that higher-power stuff they talk about in the room? I
believe there are things beyond our control. Who or what's controlling
them... that I don't know. I don't believe in God. Heaven, hell. None of
it. - Too much catholic school? - Maybe I'm not saying you have to
believe in God, Peter, or anything, for that matter. But you shouldn't
rule anything out.
What's the angle? Alcohol, drugs. He's a kid from the streets. I want the profile
to come out as soon as he announces, and I'd like it to be kind. I don't write puff
pieces. Then get someone else to write it. I thought you had something for me.
It's too easy for people to link me as your source. It's dangerous. I don't benefit
from handing out headlines to other people. Generosity is its own form of power,
Zoe.
You always wear sunglasses at night? How did you find me? I figured you had to
be in government. I kept googling till I found your picture. This won't work, what
you're doing. It was a one-time deal. - You don't get to keep coming back for
more. - I'll go to the police. They'll laugh in your face. Look at you. If the police
won't listen to me, I'll call TV stations I know the names... Douglas Stamper,
Peter Russo, Frank Underwood. You are walking down a road you do not want to
walk down. Please, I won't call anyone. But I need your help. I don't have
anywhere to go. I don't have anyone I can call. I've had to do things. And I don't
wanna do it anymore. That's all I've got right now. Find a place to stay and let
me know where you are.
What about prostitutes here in D.C.? How often? - I fucked around a bit, okay? Details, please. Do you get off on this or something? Does a doctor enjoy it
when he cups your balls and asks you to cough? You wanna know how many
times I came? I honestly don't care whether you win. But if you do, work with
me. How often did you solicit prostitutes in D.C.? Once every two or three
months. Sometimes more frequently, sometimes less. Do you have reason to
believe any of them were underage? Jesus! No. Look, they were mostly high-end.
That doesn't mean they were 18. I need a fucking break! What's going on? He's
an amateur, Frank. If I can get under his skin in less than an hour, how do you
think he'll hold up under the press? It'll be a Turkey shoot. All right. I'll speak to
him. Frank, it's just... it's not gonna work. I'm gonna get crucified. You'll be fine.
We've got a crack team behind you. It doesn't matter how good the team is. With
my past? Come on. From the very beginning, I said this was the plan. - You
agreed to it. - I didn't think it through. We have to tackle this head-on, or the
G.O.P. will crucify you. We have to steal their ammunition from them. Honesty is

your best defense and offense. I'm the one that has to get in front of these
cameras and say this shit. They don't have to say it. I do. - Peter... - I wanna be
governor. I do. But not this way. I just can't do it. If you weren't unsure now,
there'd be something wrong with you. I expected this. Not easy... what we're
asking you to do. It's okay to vacillate a little. I'm not trying to throw a wrench in
the works. I know you're not. I'll tell you what. You take the rest of the day off. You
go back to your office, you catch up with whatever you have to catch up on, you
get a good night's sleep, you go to a meeting tomorrow, and then you come here
and we'll talk the whole thing through.
Hi, Doug. One of the things I do for a living is count. I count votes.
Yeas, nays, neutrals, abstaining. And I'm good at it. But the most
important count I do has nothing to do with work. It's the number of
days since April 4, 1999. As of this morning, that's 5,185. The bigger
that number gets, the more it frightens me, because I know all it takes
is one drink to go back to zero. Most people see fear as a weakness. It
can be. Sometimes for my job, I have to put fear in other people. I
know that's not right. But if I'm honest, like the fourth step asks us to
be, because failure is not an option. The same goes for my sobriety. I
have to be ruthless with myself. I have to use my fear. It makes me
stronger. Like everyone in this room, I can't control who I am. But I can
control the zero. Fuck the zero.
Mine neither. Anything else I need to know? I hear silence. I don't like that sound.
Something came up. I'm handling it. - Something serious? - Serious but solvable. Do I wanna know more? - I don't think you do. We'll be okay. I might have to
involve Nancy. I'm hoping I won't have to. But if I do, she'll have no knowledge of
anything damaging. All right. Use your best judgment. Of course, sir. I've gotta
go.
Peter is a talented young man with a lot of potential. He knows this, but he
needs to hear it from someone other than me. Someone he truly cares about. I'm
sorry. This is just a lot right now. Well, you don't have to make a decision now, but
at least talk to Peter. I mean, there's no harm in that, now, is there?
- Not my problem. - It could be. We put her back on the streets, there's no telling
what she could do. I'm a hell of a lot more afraid of the U.S. attorney than I am of
some hooker. This is a very inexpensive insurance policy. I already broke the law
once, Doug. There's no fucking way I'm gonna mess with campaign finance
regulations. I don't even wanna be hearing this shit.
- Where you from? - Outside of Lynchburg. - Virginia? - Yeah. - Are your parents
still living there? - No. I can't. If I find a place for you to stay for a while, can I
count on you to be smart? - What kind of place? - A nice place. A safe place until
we can figure out something permanent. But I need to know that you won't pull
anything like this again. Promise me. I promise. Look at me when you say it. I
promise you. How you doing on money? I don't have enough for tomorrow. What
are you doing? - I thought you wanted me to... - You said you were done with that.
I'll be in touch.
You have a guest room in your house, right? Well, it's Mary's old room, but, yes. I
need you to put someone up for a while. A young woman. - What? Who? - Her
name is Rachel. I can't tell you anymore than that. I don't understand. Why do

you need... no questions, Nancy. I just need you to do this for me. I wouldn't be
asking if it weren't serious. Put up for how long? I don't know. It could be a while.
I'm supposed to put up a complete stranger and not ask any questions? Nancy,
please. You're the only person I can trust. Is something illegal going on? No. She's
just a girl in trouble who needs a place to stay. - We have to be discreet. - Can I at
least meet her first? I need to know now. Okay, I guess. Thank you.
- That's not enough time. - What do you see in him? I was wondering the same
thing. There's not that much to see. What I see is a recovering alcoholic with a
history of drug abuse - What? - Excuse me, Frank? But he's clean now. Has been
for a year. This is a redemption story, Mr. President. This is a bright young man
who's put his life back on track. Now he wants to help put Pennsylvania back on
track. - Drugs, Frank? - People love an underdog, Linda, and people love someone
who stands up after they've fallen. Combine those two, it's a very powerful
narrative. All of our polling indicates this is gonna work. You want us to endorse
someone with a history of substance abuse? Let us get his story out there and
watch it connect with the voters. And I believe Russo is our best chance. This is
not a hail Mary, Mr. President, - this is a well-thought-out game plan. - Mr.
President... I realize that I sometimes think out of the box, but the last time I
did,we signed an education bill. All right. We won't stand in your way. - But if it
backfires, Frank... - I'll guide Peter every step along the way. We will not
disappoint you, Mr. President. Thank you, sir. Linda. I didn't plan on telling him so
much so soon, but if I didn't, Linda would've swayed him. There's no better way
to overpower a trickle of doubt than with a flood of naked truth. This is why the
education bill was so important. It bought me influence precisely when I needed it
most.
I was wondering. Do you ever think about my age? No. Does my age bother you?
You must have other lovers... men that are younger than me. - No. - Not that I
would mind. I am married, after all. I don't have time for other lovers. Mm. Shit.
It's turned. Give me that. You really ought to get your parents to let you borrow
some money. Then you wouldn't have to live in the third world. I would never take
money from them. Because they don't have it, or because you don't want it.
Because I don't want it. It's father's day, you know. It is? You should call your
father. I'll call him tomorrow. Tomorrow you'll be the daughter that forgot
father's day instead of the one who remembered. Go ahead. Call him.
There's so little she'll ever reveal to me or I to her. I bet her father
knows even less. I'm sure she's speaking half an octave higher. Same
voice she had when she was 16. Telling him all about her new job, how
much she misses him, and sorry she didn't send a card. Telling him
everything but the truth. Just like she wouldn't tell me about that young
man downstairs. I'm calling now, all right? Don't make me feel bad
about it. There's a value in having secrets. we wouldn't be ourselves
without them. But Peter Russo, on the other hand... he's trapped by his
secrets. What I'm trying to do is give him the opportunity to set himself
free. After all, we are nothing more or less than what we choose to
reveal. What I am to Claire is not what I am to Zoe, just as Zoe is not to
me what she is to her father. Aren't you gonna wish me a happy Father's
Day? You don't have any children. Don't I?
Ch.8

Well, Jefferson designed Monticello. And he also fucked his slaves. Luckily, I don't
have any, so that particular temptation hasn't presented itself. The Sentinel...
South Carolina's premiere military college. They taught me the values of honor,
duty, and respect. They also hazed me, tried to break me, and, senior year,
nearly expelled me when I volunteered for a Senate Race and my studies
suffered. But that didn't stop them from soliciting a hefty sum for their new
library 30 years later. How quickly poor grades are forgotten in the shadow of
power and wealth.
Now, how do you know about that? Three quarters of Pennsylvania sits on top of
the Marcellus Shale. If I can't find out who's running for governor, I don't deserve
a dime of what they're paying me. This watershed bill Russo sponsors places a lot
of restrictions on drilling. Remy, congress is in recess, and this weekend is not
about work. I apologize. You are absolutely right. Is Sancorp your only account? I
have plenty. But my other clients didn't pay for your library or my plane ticket
down here. It's a nice little junket for you. I do hope you're taking in the sights.
This isn't my first trip to Charleston. But I'll bet it's your first time not as my press
secretary It is.
Normally, this is where I would start to drone on about the Sentinel's history, its
philosophy, its yadda, yadda, yadda. - But I'm going to save that for my big
speech tomorrow, and that way I'm not gonna bore y'all to tears twice. Tonight
we're going to turn it over to a man who needs no introduction, because we all
know what a son of a bitch he is. - Seriously, though, Frank Underwood
exemplifies all the virtues we try to instill in our graduates. We're so proud to call
you an alumnus, Frank,
I'd like you to be there. Everybody respects you. Want me to vouch for you?
Listen, I'm gonna tell you something that only a handful of people know. I'm
running for Governor. But I need the association behind me
Claire. I didn't realize you and Frank were staying here. We always stay here
when we're in Charleston. You know that, Remy. The '08 campaign. I promise it
was a coincidence my assistant booked it. Is, uh, Frank around? He's not. He's off
cavorting with old classmates. Hmm. You want to sit down and have a drink?
They booked me the Bridal Suite. There's champagne on ice. My, my, you've
grown very confident since you worked for Francis I've always been confident,
Claire. Oh, you never would have invited me upstairs. Never had the Bridal Suite.
The staff always stayed in the best Western four blocks away. Enjoy your
champagne. I wasn't suggesting anything more than a drink. Weren't you? Purely
being polite. Good night, Remy. The Bridal Suite's on the top floor at the end of
the hallway, if you change your mind.
Can you imagine me wiping a baby's ass and changing nappies? No, I can't.
Actually, yes, I just did. I'm gonna have to get off the phone. You've ruined
everything. Well, we really should get off. It's been... Over an hour, I think. Okay. Go on then. - I'm hanging up right now. - No, I am. - [Phone beeps]
Oh, I'd love to see your ass with a paddle, bouncing through a class-four rapid. If
I can whip congress into submission, I'm not afraid of a little white water. You
can't tame a rapid, Frank. My heart is beating so fast... If I have a heart attack,
it's your fault.

How'd you get in here? You still keep the spare key behind the loose brick on the
porch. You break into my house? You scare my kids like that? We gotta talk, Paul.
We talked last night. Now get out. I can convince these people, but I need your
help. - Leave my house. - Sit down. I don't wanna have to hurt you with my
children upstairs, petey. Then help me. This is your last chance. I'm not going
anywhere. What are we doing? I don't wanna fight you, petey. I don't wanna fight
you either. I will. But we don't have to. What do you want me to do? You elected
me to represent you, but I couldn't forestall the inevitable The shipyard was
closing. If not this year, then next. Or the year after. We all know that. I could
have lied to you. I could have pretended to do more. But I don't believe about
living in the past. I only care about the future. Here's another truth that's gonna
be hard to swallow. I'm all you've got. Nobody in Washington gives a fuck about
you. No one. [Paul] He's right. Whatever you think of petey, we either go with him
or we got nothin'. Now, does what I'm offering you come anywhere near what you
want or deserve? No. But you gotta open your eyes and take what's in front of
you. We can build on that. 5,000 jobs becomes 10,000. Then 15,000. Not in the
snap of a finger, but faster than doing nothing will. Can I count on all of you? All
right, I'll take that as a yes. We'll need your contact information
I wrote a speech. But I'm not gonna read it. Nothing is permanent. Not even this
building. I don't mean to sound ungrateful. I am very grateful. I'm deeply
honored. And I am... I'm very moved. I had the good fortune of spending most of
this weekend with a group of friends. Friends I haven't seen in a very long time.
Friends I made here. Most of you young cadets probably, uh, don't know who I
am. A politician, a name, a few accomplishments. But I don't blame you. When I
was your age, why, I didn't care much for what men in gray hair did or what they
had to say. I... I wish I could describe... Harmony. That's the word that stuck in my
mind. Harmony. It's not about what's lasting or permanent. It is about individual
voices coming together. For a moment. And that moment lasts... The length of a
breath. That's what I think about my time here. You'll have to forgive me. I had
more than a few whiskeys last night. You know, when I was a cadet, we could
drink all night and then get up in the morning and march 20 Miles, but these days
I'm lucky I got up these three steps. I wanna thank you very much. This is a great
honor.
What happened to your hand? I got in a fight. Did you win? Yeah, I guess I did.
That's my Peter. So you're fucking my son. Lighten up. I'm just messing with you.
Excuse me. [Orderly] Yeah. Hold on a second. Yeah? Yeah, my mother's in room
409. She has a light out that needs to be replaced. All right. I'll take care of it.
Okay, thanks. Look, babe, if you put that pink thing on, I'm telling you... Hold on.
What is it? The light in my mother's room. I told you I'll take care of it later. No,
you'll take care of it now. - I gotta go. - [Phone beeps] And turn the A.C. down
while you're in there too. Yes, sir.
Yeah, they did a good job. Your speech. I'm glad I was here for that. Me too. V I'll
take you out on the Arkansas river. - I should do that. - Any time you want. All
right Francis? . I'll be right there. Take your time.
Ch.9
This is gonna be a close vote. Most of your colleagues are not gonna wanna
spend this amount of money in just 25 districts. Try persuasion first. Talking

points are in your packets. And if you want more detailed information.. research,
statistics... you can contact Gillian or myself. And when it comes to doling out
favors, talk to Doug. If favors don't work, come to me directly. Peter.
I've been very open about my past, and I've done everything I can to overcome
it in a responsible, permanent way. And I preferred vodka to scotch. You should
get your facts straight. Is your watershed act just a ploy to jump into the spotlight
and pad your transcript while you apply for Governor school? It's real money. It's
real jobs. And when the Delaware river is less polluted than it's been in 50
years... it's holding up a real glass of its water and seeing how clear it is. That's
what my bus tour is about. - The vice president is joining you later? - Correct.
Why has it taken him this long to endorse you? He didn't think I was worth it. But
then he heard I had a one-on-one with the New York Times, - and, boom, he was
on board. - I might print that. The more of my words, the fewer of yours, the
better off we'll both be. If I didn't think you were such a liability to yourself,
congressman, I might even like you.
Sancorp is against any step toward regulation, no matter how small. Russo's
planted his feet on the wrong side of the fence. How much are you giving his
opponent? How much are you giving his opponent? How much are you actually
giving? This is a ten-billion-dollar industry, Frank. There's money to spend. If the
democrats lose Pennsylvania, you know what that means. We don't want you to
lose leadership, but that's up to you, not us. You don't have the same kind of
relationship with the Republicans Then we'll adapt. We both have votes to count.
Good luck. You tell Sancorp they're being foolish. I'm not gonna do that. Well,
then, you're being foolish. Come on, Frank. Let's not make this personal. I can't
compete with Sancorp's war chest. - My only option is asymmetrical... - [Door
closes] To pick off the opposition one by one like a sniper in the woods. There will
come a time to put Remy in my crosshairs, but not right now. As we used to say
in Gaffney, never slap a man while he's chewing tobacco.
Did Zoe expect me to twiddle my thumbs until her arrival? Perhaps she's making
the mistake thinking her time is as valuable as mine. Proximity to power deludes
some into believing they wield it. I put an end to that sort of thinking before it
begins.
Thirty minutes ago, I received a text from Zoe. She intends to apologize, no
doubt. I respect that she wants to atone in person, even though it's taken her
over 16 hours to build up the courage. That's not an unfair assessment. Not an
unfair speculation. Well, let me know if she expands her inquiry. - Into what? Anything you deem worth telling. -Should have a preliminary one this afternoon.
You'll let me know? - As soon as I have something solid. About last night... oh, no
need to apologize. I'm sure you had a very good reason. I do. I think we should
end it. Not professionally, the other thing. Why now? We have a really good
working relationship. I don't wanna overcomplicate that. All right. - You're okay
with it? - Completely. It's over. And it won't change things in terms of our
arrangement? Oh, please. I don't punish people for making adult decisions. She
was never more than a faint blip on my radar. We've served each other's
purpose. If she wants to be an adult, let her see how she can fly once she leaves
the nest.

What about Remy? Glendon Hill must have contacts in South Sudan. He's
fighting us on the vote. Those are two completely separate issues. They are not.
He does you a favor, he hangs it over me. So what you're saying is my goals are
secondary to yours. That is not what I'm saying. I think you don't want to go hat
in hand to somebody who used to work for you. I will not be lectured to the
moment you walk in the door! I called Catherine, as promised! Her inability to
deliver is not my problem or my fault! I cannot control changing global
landscapes! And I will not be cornered into making promises I cannot deliver! I
am sorry I yelled. I'm under a lot of pressure.
We have contacts there through our oil interest. I'm going to need government
intervention. Wherever there's a government, we know people. Even when
there's only the illusion of a government. Will you help me? I'd like to. But for
something like this, I'm afraid there's a price tag. We'll need more than that. I'd
say that's a bargain. You turned down that offer. Landscape has shifted since
then. You want it amended? I want you to kill it, the whole thing. C.W.I. Has
publicly backed the bill, Remy. What you do publicly is your concern.
So have either of you changed your mind since we last spoke? Leaning one way
or the other? we would rather see that money spent more effectively elsewhere.
That sounds like you're both leaning no. We've been very clear about
what we're asking. [Sighs] Okay. This is you, Abrams. And this is you,
vanderburgh. And over here... Is the majority of the Democratic caucus.
See, you're over there all by your lonesome. Now, you don't mind being
the black sheep. You're the liberal wing of the liberal wing. Most of the
time you can vote what you want, we still pass things anyway. But this
time it does matter. And what the two of you aren't taking into account
is between this end of the desk and this end of the desk... Is me. Now,
I'm going to say to you what I say to every congressman that sits where
you're sitting now. Vote your district. Vote your conscience. Don't
surprise me. And the most important one of those... Is don't surprise
me. Now, you're both to meet with my wife tomorrow. And you're to
hear her out. She will go through your concerns point-by-point. And I am
certain after that that the two of you will make the right decision. This
is the part where you leave. I have often found that bleeding hearts
have a ironic fear of their own blood. One drop and the seize up. But
offer them a caring hand and massage them back to life and they soon
start beating to the right drum.
Here you go, sir. Enjoy. Excuse me. There's a hair on my steak. I am so sorry, sir.
Where? Right there. I don't see it. Are you telling me I'm blind? No, sir. I'm so
sorry. - I'll have the kitchen.
- What's your name? Stephanie. You can leave the plate, Stephanie. I'd
like to talk to the manager. Yes, sir. I'll go get him. Thank you. Good
evening, sir. Uh, Stephanie tells me there was a hair on your plate. No.
There wasn't any hair. Leon, right? That's your name? Yes. Stephanie is
a hot little number, isn't she? [Scoffs] Nice ass [Chuckles] Did you make
her blow you v before or after you hired her? Sir, I'm going to have to
ask you to leave. - Sit down, Leon.- Sir, I want you to go. - I said sit. Don't make me call the police. I'll tell you what. You call the police, I'll
call the department of immigration about the four undocumented

employees you have working in the kitchen. Felony, Leon. And I might
also mention your girlfriend, her mother, and her aunt who also
undocumented and living in an apartment that you pay for. Prison time
for you, deportation for them. Not a pretty picture, is it? Let's talk about
Rachel Posner.
Well, what is it? Maybe I can help. Just... my son didn't get into Stanford. I was
supposed to meet with the Provost tomorrow to see if I could get him to change
his mind. I asked the president if I could go, and he said yes, but he must have
forgotten. You should go. I'm sure the president will understand. No, no. I don't let
personal matters get in the way of my job, Frank. Linda, you can't put your entire
life on hold. And certainly not at the expense of your own son. Well, it has been at
the expense of my son. It's my fault he didn't get in. I wasn't there, Frank. But I
figured if I could just meet with the Provost face to face... okay, look, you're going
to Stanford tomorrow. If you show up at my office, I won't let you in, so don't even
consider it. Frank, the president wants me to be... he doesn't have to know. I'm
going to have one of my schedulers buy you a ticket. The bill will be fine. Frank.
You don't have to do this. We may have our disagreements, Linda, but that
doesn't mean we can't look out for each other. You tell them you're coming.
I want to ask him to leave. Well, that wouldn't make for a very good story. It's
better than him torpedoing the whole bus tour. Have you tried to talk to him? No,
I wanted to ask your advice first. Well, maybe there's a way to keep him on the
tour and inspire his support. We have fundamentally different views. Well, look,
you're not going to be able change his ideology, but dig deeper. Jim is a proud
man. Tap into that pride. I just wish he was gone. Well, you do whatever you think
best. But whatever it is you decide, be firm and stand up for yourself. He'll
respond to that at least. And call me back if you need anything.
There won't be any events until we talk. You're hijacking the microphone. You're
contradicting everything I say. We need to be promoting the watershed act. Well,
I appreciate your being so forthright. Let me tell you what I don't appreciate. The
D.N.C. Is running a man with zero track record, except for substance abuse, to fill
my shoes. I realize you don't want to be here, sir, but it seems like you're
deliberately trying to sabotage my campaign. Despite my better judgment, I'm
trying to save it. I know the people of this state better than you, Peter. They don't
want to hear about watersheds. They want to hear about jobs Well, this week,
they need to hear both. Well, then, maybe I should just stand quietly beside you
at the podium and watch you lose. - You don't think I can win, do you? - I'm not
optimistic. You lost the first two times you ran for Governor. The third time,
nobody thought you had a chance. By September, you were 15 points down. You
were out of money. You had to mortgage your own house just to keep your staff
on payroll. I'm well aware of what I did. I was there. My point is you kept going.
You hit 67 counties in less than 20 days, and you proved everyone wrong. Like it
or not, it's my name on the ticket this time, and I got the shot, and I'm gonna
prove everyone wrong. Just like you did. Including you, sir. I would like your
support, but if you won't give it, fine. It won't stop me. You think it's easy for me
to be here? I left the Governor's mansion right in my prime. To be what? Vice
president. I thought that was a step up. But you know what? I don't have a
fucking shred of real influence. I'm trotted around like a goddamn mascot, and
this is my home state. I'm offering you influence, sir. I'd like your guidance and

your expertise. But if that's not on the table, then, well... With all due respect, Mr.
Vice President, you should head back to Washington.
Oh, don't you wanna shower first before we dirty ourselves with business? I'll
shower after you leave. What's the vote count? Your tone doesn't inspire me to be
very forthcoming. Oh, the fuck wasn't enough? You need a special tone too? Ooh,
someone washed her mouth out with acid this morning. Whatever it is you're
grappling with, I am sincerely not interested. You're almost twice my age. You
said that didn't bother you. I lied. If you had a daughter, she'd be older than me.
In 20 years, I'll still be younger than you are now. Well, I can't argue with basic
arithmetic. You don't find that disgusting? I think you want me to. But I've never
considered this any more or less than a transaction between two consenting
adults. If you just want the girl who will do your bidding for you, you already have
that. Why do you need to fuck me? I would remind you that it was you who
initiated our affair, and it was you who came knocking at my door last winter. And
it was me who asked that we stop what we're doing now. Which I respected until
you picked up a phone and asked me to come over tonight. Because you wouldn't
give me what I wanted unless I did. So tell me, why do you need this? You don't
seem to get any pleasure out of it. I know I certainly don't. I seem to always leave
you satisfied. How do you know I'm not faking it? Are you? Doesn't it say a lot
that you can't tell? A great man once said that everything in life is about sex...
Except sex. Sex is about power. So you need a whore, which makes you a pimp.
I'm not a pimp. Just a very generous John. Fine. As long as we're clear about what
this is, I can play the whore. Now pay me. The bill will pass. We have it by two
votes. You can pass that along to your friend, miss Skorsky. If she must say such
things in order to sleep at night, so be it. Her loyalty costs me nothing but the
occasional crumb of news. Her hatefulness takes no toll at all. You don't
compensate a working girl so you can cuddle after.
- How'd it go at Stanford? - Well, I think. The Dean's a republican, so there was
not a lot of small talk. But he seemed open to considering it. We'll know more
next week. - [Francis] That's terrific. - I appreciate your helping me out. Oh, I
didn't do anything. Anybody can book a plane ticket. That's not true. You covered
for me. Well, we have to keep the important things in perspective, right? Don't
think it's bought you any favors. Kindness isn't kindness if you expect a reward.
The man of the hour! Not yet. The votes are still coming in. Hey, how'd you vote?
I voted yes. Voting. I knew I forgot something.
Ch.10
But I appreciate your covering for me in there. There may be a way to turn
Linda's bad luck into my good fortune. But first I must deal with treason within
the ranks... the two renegades who voted against the bill. I have zero tolerance
for betrayal, which they will soon indelibly learn.
[Francis] Are you going to answer my question? Did she or didn't she? Tell me
now, or so help me God, I will make it my mission in life to not only destroy your
careers, but to obliterate all hope and happiness that you manage to cling to. She said it would be okay... - To backstab me? To do what we thought was right.
So she did tell you to vote no. She said it wouldn't be the end of the world if the
bill failed. Those were her exact words. You discuss this with no one. Is that
understood?

So however you need to fix it, you figure it out. Otherwise, I go public with
Kapeniak and the Kern editorial. You need to cool down and think very carefully
about what you just said. You don't understand. I'm not afraid of you anymore,
Frank. - Then you're misguided. - My past is out in the open. You don't hold that
over my head anymore. They don't know everything, Peter. You destroy me, you
destroy yourself. Fix it. - What do you want me to do? - We have to accelerate
things.Is there a spider. Isn't it too early? It's almost two full months into the
election. - That gives the White House too much time to vet somebody. - Peter's
crossed the line. We built up his confidence, and now we're losing control of him.
Maybe he was just blowing off steam. No. He's determined. We have to act now.
You have everything you need on your end? Give me a when and a where. Some
sort of social setting's preferable. - Anything else? - I'll need cash. About three
grand. It'll be in your top drawer by tomorrow morning. Sir... Once we do this,
we're committed. - Understood. - I can't predict how he's gonna react. Well, I
won't be blackmailed.
Such a shame, how naive you are. - I'm not naive. - No? I've known everything
from the beginning, Zoe. My husband and I tell each other everything. Don't you
believe me? Is there a spider I can trap? I'm not here to punish you or to tell you
to stop. I just thought I should open those big bright eyes. I think you should
leave. I think I should too. Maybe you're not that naive. A lesser woman wouldn't
have opened the door.
The lights in the Whartons' house will go on in a few moments. They always get
up precisely at quarter to 7:00, which is just the time that Claire would be going
for her run, if she were here. Rebellion on all fronts... Claire, Zoe, Russo. I must
not lose my resolve. I will march forward, even if I have to do so... Alone. See?
Told ya.
[Sighs] I would really prefer that Linda not know. In fact, it would be better if both
she and Ruben believed he got in on merit alone. Will you please do this favor for
Claire and me? And for the president. Thank you.
- I come across as a hypocrite. - [Francis] You need jobs. Do you really care how
you deliver them? First, I advocate for more regulation for the watershed, then I
cozy up to the drilling interests? Yeah, but natural gas is the future, Peter This is
an industry that could bring 100,000 jobs into your state over the next decade. I
agree with Peter. It seems like flip-flopping. Sancorp's lobbying efforts is why we
lost the watershed bill. But they can also be a very powerful ally. [Christina] Our
message is a "fresh start." This makes you look like business as usual. This is
politics. There are seized opportunities and missed opportunities. Seize this one,
Peter. Sancorp can commit to building new refineries in Philly? Sancorp will
commit to discussing it with you. - I need more than that. - Look, you asked me to
fix a problem. I've come to you in less than 24 hours with a solution. Can you
meet me halfway? What would be the first step? All right. You remember Remy
Danton? - Oh, come on. He led the charge against the watershed bill. - I know.
That's not the point. One of his other big clients is the McNeally cancer institute.
They're having a big gala tonight... a cocktail party... for their donors. Remy will
be there. We have events in Haverford and Gladwyne... yeah, well, this is more
important. You also have a radio interview tomorrow morning with a local
Pittsburgh station? - Yes. - All right. Meet with Remy tonight. And if it goes well
and if you're comfortable, tomorrow morning on the radio, you support their

drilling efforts. And Remy has assured me if you do that, he can push Sancorp in
the right direction. Cancel the events tomorrow.
Sancorp is very interested in having a powerful friend in Harrisburg. My
opponent's pro-drilling. Your opponent isn't asking for refineries in Philadelphia.
We prefer friends we can count on. Have your clients listen to WZPZ tomorrow at
a quarter to 8:00. It's a Pittsburgh station. It's been a pleasure, Congressman. I
look forward to talking again soon.
You got a light? This is a cancer research event. I know. I helped organize it. - You
work for the institute? - No. The hotel. And they let you smoke here? No. The
manager would kill me. Well, at least it got you talking. [Chuckles] Are you having
a good night? You look happy. Uh, I am. I am. I'm having a great night. - Why? - I
just got some very good news. We should celebrate. What are you drinking? You
know, I was just leaving, actually. You haven't even asked my name yet. - I
apologize, but I have to go. - It's Rachel. I'm not trying to be rude, but I got a big
meeting tomorrow. Then don't be rude. Just stay a few more minutes and keep
me from having to mingle. My date ditched me. So if you abandon me now, that
would be very rude. These heels are killing me. - Feel that. Feel that blister. - Hey,
I... I have a girlfriend. I'd be surprised if you didn't. - Why'd your date ditch you? Mmm. Very scandalous. Mmm, what happened? Clink glasses with me. I'm petite,
but I can hold my liquor. Obviously. When I do get drunk, though... [Chuckles]
What then? I get undressed. What about you? What are you like when you get
drunk? - It's not pretty. - Pretty's overrated. I like it when things get a little bit
ugly. When I work late nights, they let me stay at the hotel so I don't have to
drive home. This one is yours. Room 1121.
[Adam] Come on. Give us another one. No. I'll tell you why. Because my mother
always used to tell me to smile more. Always drove me crazy. She'd say, "Claire",
"why have you that scowl all the time? You look so much more beautiful when
you smile." It was never a real conversation. There was never, "oh, what do you
feel?" Or "what are you thinking?" Just so long as I looked beautiful and happy.
That's all she cared about. So you want me to ask you what you're thinking and
feeling? All the time. I actually do wanna know what you're thinking and feeling. How sad am I? - Okay, so tell me first. - What? - Tell me first. I think I'd better get
dressed. - What? Why? Uh, because... I've got friends coming over, and as a host,
I should probably wear clothes. - Really? - Yeah. - Why do you do that? - Well, you
know. - It's proper? - Kind of.
Shit. The sun's up? Has been for a while. - Oh, fuck. What time is it? - 7:15. Fuck.
I have an interview in half an hour. - Skip it. - I can't. I gotta do it. - Hello? [Stamper] I'm at your building. The front desk keeps calling up, but there's no
answer. - I'm not there. - Then I'll come to you. Where are you? I'm... I'm at the
Park Highmore hotel. Are you okay? You sound drunk.
How bad is it? It all depends on whether it gets picked up by the mainstream
press. - Well, shall I fill in the president? - No. Hold off on that. I need to speak to
Peter, coordinate with his campaign. You'll be the first call I make. Frank, before
you go, I got an e-mail this morning. Stanford reversed their decision. That's
wonderful. The Provo said Gillian Cole reached out to him. I googled her. She
works for Claire. - Thank you. - No reason to thank me. Ruben was just ecstatic. I
don't know how I'm gonna repay you. The fact that your son is happy is more

than enough. - You'll keep me posted on Peter? - You bet. Hey, boss. - Are you still
with him? - Yeah. - He's taking a shower. - How're we looking? Zoe Barnes posted
ten minutes ago. It's already on the New York times web site. The kid is done.
Have Nancy set up a meeting with the Vice President. - Today if possible. - Will do.
And keep an eye on Peter. He's done his duty. - Let's get him back on his feet. You got it.
Ch. 11
If the President hadn't shut me out of the early discussions, I could've come up
with some good options, but I don't know anyone who's got the name recognition
and donor base to start a campaign from scratch just seven weeks out. Let me
think. Everything hinges on the next few minutes... all my months of planning,
every move I've made. - There is one person.- Who? You, Mr. Vice President. If you
ran to reclaim your seat, I think you'd win by a landslide. Resign the vice
presidency. Only if you win. Walker needs me for 2016. Are you entirely certain
he's gonna keep you on the ticket? I mean, it's no secret the two of you don't
exactly get along. What has he said? Oh, you're putting me in a very awkward
position, Mr. Vice President. Has he been bad-mouthing me? Well, the exact
phrase he used was "pain in the ass." That fucker. He's got no idea how to lead,
no sense of respect. - Oh, is this his idea? - No. - His way of getting rid of me? No. It struck me yesterday, and I just thought it was worth suggesting. But, no, I
haven't discussed this with anyone. And you shouldn't. People don't leave the
White House to become a governor. May I ask you a personal question, sir? Do
you want to be the Vice President? Peter said that when you were out on that
campaign trail, you had so much enthusiasm and energy that he thought you
maybe missed being the Governor. I do miss it. Then why not go back? You could
be the hero of this election and secure Pennsylvania for the Democrats in 2016.
Garrett would never go along with something like this, even if he hates my guts.
It would make him look weak, like he's lost control of the administration. Not if it
was a mutual decision. Look, let me talk to Garrett. I won't mention that we've
spoken. I suppose there's no harm in finding out what he thinks. Thank you, Mr.
Vice President.
I was scared that I was starting to feel too much for you. I think that's why I
ended it. And you have no room for fear? No. Being afraid doesn't accomplish
anything. That's not true. When I'm overseas, rational fear... disease or
violence.. that sort of fear keeps you alive. Back here, God, I find myself
afraid of things that I can't name or point to. It's like, uh, how little am I
seeing? Or have I wasted this day or this moment? Yeah, I think that
sometimes... whether my life will add up. Francis would roll his eyes if he heard
me talking like this. No, he doesn't. If he's looking for you, that's where you are.
Over there. Before you met Frank. Alone. Curious. Absorbing everything. You have
no idea what I was like when I was a girl. Did he ever know that side of you? He
wasn't interested in that girl. And neither was I. What were you interested in?
Being more than an observer. You wanted to be seen. Not just seen. I wanted to
be significant.
There's no historical precedent. Aaron Burr ran for Governor,
Calhoun for the Senate. 200 years ago. One shot a man in a
duel, the other believed in slavery. Is that really the sort of

company we wanna share, Frank? Mr. President, we stand losing

control of an important swing state, our majority in the house, and quite
possibly your second term in office. Preventing all of that may
require unconventional measures. It would look like I'm pushing him out. Or
worse... that he's
abandoning the administration. You make a joint statement. You say he won't
resign unless he wins If he loses, he stays on as Vice President. No one could
accuse either of
you of disloyalty to the other. - Did Jim come to you with this?
- No. It's entirely my idea. I wouldn't dream of speaking to the Vice
President without passing it by you first. I think he'd take it as an affront, like I'm
trying to get rid of him. Honestly, sir, I think he might be
more interested than you imagine. - Why is that?
- Well, I hesitate to bring this up, but when he was campaigning for Russo, he
spoke quite freely about you, sir. Mm-hmm. Tell me. Of course, I'm getting
this secondhand from Peter, but the gist of it is that... that you lack entirely in
leadership, and that you have no sense of respect. And he wants more
responsibility. And how do I give him that when he shows absolutely no
discretion, no discipline? Well, that is entirely my point. Now, look, I take full
responsibility
for backing Russo, but there could be a
silver lining in all this. You could accomplish two goals: Secure Pennsylvania for
the Democrats and find an honorable way to replace Matthews. What do you
think? I think it is a very big decision, and we do not want to make it impulsively. I
agree. I'd like to put some more thought into it. Well, that is very prudent, sir. Just
bear in mind, seven weeks out, that every day counts.
Mr. Russo, uh... sir, it's none of my business, but, uh, my Uncle... he fell off the
wagon a few times. When he did, the best thing for him was just not to be alone.
I'll give you this money back, I'll take that bag off your hands, come in here, keep
you company... I appreciate it. I'll let you know if I change my mind.
Where's Claire? Not here. So what is this, tying up loose ends I wouldn't
presume. People like you can't be neatly tied up. But I thought perhaps we could
start... It's very tasteful. This is the dress she wore to the gala. I believe so. It is. I
recognize it. Go back into the bedroom. How do you think she'd feel if she knew I
was wearing this? I don't know. You don't think she'd be upset? She'd probably
say you look very beautiful in it. It's like steel. You should put it back. I think I'll
keep it. I'll buy you one of your own, if you'd like. No. I want this one. She came
into my bedroom. She should know I came into hers. Is your bed always so
perfectly made? It's a habit I formed at military school. What side of the bed does
she sleep on? That side. She can keep it. Fits her better anyway. Listen, Zoe...
Whatever just happened upstairs, whatever these past six months have been,
can we agree that it is time to simplify? What does simple look like? We maintain

our professional arrangement, as you suggested, which I will honor. You still trust
me? What choice do I have? You didn't hurt me or discard me like you said you
would. I'm glad I didn't have to. Yes, we'll agree to simplify. Good.
I have a pretty good idea why you asked for this meeting. - Have you and the
President had a chance to speak? - We have.- Is he leaning one way or another? He's torn. - And what about you? - I'm a little less torn. My instincts tell me it's a
mistake. You wanna convince me otherwise? Well, look, if your instincts tell you
this is not the way to go, I'm not about to... Frank, I'm gonna ask you two very
direct questions, and I would appreciate direct answers. When you got my son
into college, were you anticipating a moment like this? I don't follow. Honestly,
Frank? Was I antici... I would be happy to answer you directly if I knew what you
were asking. All right. I will ask you my second question. Do you want the Vice
Presidency for yourself? I would serve at the pleasure of the President. That was
his... you proposed this idea so that you can take Matthews' place. - I did not say
that. - But it is what you want. - What I want is in the... - The President makes you
v.P., he keeps you on the ticket in 2016, and you use that as a springboard to run
in 2020. Tell me that trajectory has never entered your mind. Well, Linda, I make
a habit of considering all trajectories in any given situation. But that's a practical
exercise, not a personal one. So you refuse to admit it. Admit it's what I want?
That's irrelevant. You're the one who asked for this meeting, not me. This
meeting's about trying to solve a problem, not fulfill some personal ambition. But
if both could be achieved, you wouldn't object. I think this is a sound course of
action regardless of who the President taps to replace Matthews. I must gamble
everything I have right now. If I'm honest, she may use it against me. If I'm not,
she won't lift a finger. I've used the same tactic myself. Once someone is
exposed, they're at your mercy. She wants to hear me say the words. Yes. I want
to be the Vice President. And, yes, I helped your son get into college in the hopes
that you would return the favor. But I can't force you to do so, Linda. But I also
think that wemwould make a formidable team. Look what we've been able to
accomplish even when we've been at odds with each other. Now put your mind to
what we could accomplish if we weren't. Now put your mind to what we could
accomplish if we weren't. I'll call you back. How'd it go? She's holding her cards
very close to the chest. - Any word from Peter?
- Has anyone else seen him? - No. He's in an interrogation room by himself. I
never should've got mixed up with this fucking mess. We're way behind regret
time, Barney Just have your guys keep him out of sight. I'll need a back exit. - I
got him. Thanks. - Yeah. Come on. Hey, Peter. Where's your car? It's down the
street. I'll drive you home. You go back to mine, have Meechum let you in. This
way? - Yeah. What were you thinking, Peter? I need to take responsibility for my
actions. By getting yourself thrown in jail? Real responsibility. Like... like they talk
about in the meetings not the lies we told for the campaign What you just did
was extremely reckless. I'm making a statement tomorrow, Frank. - About pulling
out of the race? - Mm-mm. That's not enough. I... I need to stop hiding. Well, let's
work together on the language. I have to do it on my own. It's gotta be my own
words. Look, Peter, this isn't just about you anymore, all right? - Let me help you.
- I don't want your help. I didn't never ask your help when you... I got arrested.
When did your help ever help me? You can live your life the way you want to. I'm
done being told how to live mine. Well, there has to be a way to take
responsibility without shattering everything. Are you at least willing to have that

discussion? - Do you want me to come upstairs? - No. I know you're in a lot of

pain, Peter. But I don't want you to feel any pain tonight. Here. You can start fresh
tomorrow. Go ahead. I won't judge you. Hell, I'll even join you. Just relax. You're
home now. Whatever it is you have to face tomorrow, you don't have to face it
now. Right now it's just you and me. The rest of the world doesn't matter. Your
children, Christina... they will forgive you, because you're loved, Peter. Failed. I
failed my family. I failed the campaign. No, you haven't, Peter. May I? You know,
when Claire and I were first married, we talked about having children. I told her
flat out I didn't want any. It was selfish but honest. I didn't have a particularly
happy childhood. I suspect you didn't either. No. You see, no person avoids pain.
And I just didn't think it was right to bring a child in knowing that But now when I
think back, I... I realize that was cowardly. I see you, and I think, well, there's a
brave man, far braver than me. I'm so tired. When I... when I think about... when
I... You should close your eyes. Let it all go. We have all the time in the world.
Peter? Peter.
Whatever happens in the next few hours, whatever you hear, we will
never speak of it. Sir...
Suicide. He was found in his garage with the car still running. I'm so sorry, Frank.
- May I have a moment, sir? - Of course. I will get more information and start
drafting a statement. Let's reschedule. Whenever is best for Frank. I find it very
difficult to express everything that I'm feeling right now, and I know Claire feels
exactly the same. Peter was very special to us. A sort of magnetic presence that
electrified everyone he touched.
Ch.12
Thank you, Mr. President. He's ready to say yes to anything. Yeah, for this to
work, I don't think you can be there. Not when I first mention it. I agree. You
bring it up in your morning brief, and when I show up, I'll act surprised.
Assuming he's open to the idea. Look, all we have to do tomorrow is plant the
notion in his head. I'm sure you'll be persuasive.
Linda's been in there far too long. If the President takes this much convincing, it
doesn't bode well. I can feel it... his hesitation on the other side of that door. I
know it's pointless to worry until I know what cards I'm holding. Perhaps he just
got interrupted by some... I would be happy to go myself, sir. I can use a light
touch and give him the respect he deserves. Good. I'll let his people know you're
coming.
And keep your eye on Janine Skorsky while I'm away. She's been prying into
Russo. - What does she know? - She knows the right questions to ask. I want to
make sure she doesn't get the right answers. I'm on it.
Can I ask why you do that? - Do what? - Tap your ring like that. I've seen you do
it on TV. Two taps every time you get up from a table or leave a lectern.
Something my father taught me. It's meant to harden your knuckles so you
don't break them if you get into a fight. It also has the added benefit of knocking
on wood. My father believed that success is a mixture of preparation and luck.
Tapping the table kills both birds with one stone. Your father was a peach farmer?
Yes, he was. Not a very successful one. - Lack of preparation or lack of luck? Lack of both. He was better at giving advice than following it.

- Hi, Christina. - Doug, hi. - How you holding up? - I'm okay. I'm... I'm good. I saw
you sitting over here. You mind if I... No. Please. Ms. Skorsky, right? I believe we
spoke a few times when you used to work at the herald. Whenever I could get
past the press office gauntlet to you. - We do like to run a tight ship. - Mm. So
what brings you to the capitol? I was just asking Ms. Gallagher who's running to
fill the vacant seat in Pennsylvania's 1st. Well, the honest answer is we don't
know. Thank you for your time, Ms. Gallagher. Anyone starts harassing you with
questions you don't want to answer, you let me know. I'll handle them. You got
enough on your plate right now. Thanks, Doug. I appreciate that. Hang in there,
okay?
- Mr. Tusk, I am... - First names. After all, we have broken bacon together. We can
safely assume that we're familiar. Raymond, I realize that you are a very busy
man, so I'm gonna cut right to the chase. The President sincerely would like you
to become the next Vice President. That part I already knew. And I'm here to
convince you to say yes. Another thing I already knew. Well, I don't know that I
can tell you anything you don't already know. But perhaps you can tell me what
your hesitation is. Yes. Now, I understand you might have some concerns about
the financial disclosures leading... Speak. No. I have eight people representing
me at eight simultaneous meetings in six time zones right now. I sit here and
answer their questions, provided they come in the form of a single yes or no
proposition. Well, then, let me give that a try. Would you like to be the Vice
President? Yes or no? Hold on a minute. I am very sorry. Let me have 20 minutes
to wrap up these meetings. And then what do you say we get out of the office
and away from this damn phone? Meet me at my car. Betty can tell you where it's
parked.
The President hasn't exactly been a big supporter of nuclear power. Is that, uh,
part of your hesitation... that fear that the administration... He's just being
savvy. Nuclear energy is a tough sell after Japan. But it's the only option we
have right now that doesn't completely trash the planet. The argument against
nuclear power is an emotional one. And you don't make decisions based on
emotion. Decisions based on emotion aren't decisions at all. They're instincts,
which can be of value. The rational and the irrational complement each other.
Individually, they're far less powerful. And which category do your thoughts on
the vice presidency fall into? Do you hear that song? It's a hermit thrush. - Do
you know the poem? - No, I don't. It's about the death of Abraham Lincoln. He's
over there somewhere. Yes, I know the damn poem. We studied it at the
Sentinel. I said to my Professor, "why mourn the death of Presidents, or anyone
for that matter? The dead can't hear us." And he asked me if I believed in
heaven. I said no. And then he asked if I had no faith in God. I said, "you have it
wrong. It's God who has no faith in us."
And I'm sure you were wondering, "when is this old fool gonna get around to
brass tacks?" I'm here to simply answer questions. I figured that you would
make up your mind when you're ready. There are two minds here. We know all
about the blind trust. Does it concern either of you? The words "blind" and
"trust" are not among my favorites in the English language. But I have no
problem with it in theory. Not managing our assets for a few years could
unburden us from a great deal of stress. Well, then, what does your reluctance
stem from? Why do you think the President wants me? Well, I can't speak on his
behalf, but if I were to.. Aren't you here to do just that... speak on his behalf? If I

were to speculate, I think the President would prob... Speculation is a poor form
of investment and an equally poor form of politics. Tell me what you know. I
don't know what you mean. Well, what do you think I should do? You, personally,
Frank Underwood? My opinion isn't what matters here. It does to me. Should I do
it? Yes or no? Well, there's a great number of things to consider... And I'm sure
you've considered them all. Yes or no, Frank? No, I will not answer that question.
- Because you think I shouldn't. - Because it's not relevant. All right, then. Let me
ask you another way. - Would you take the job? - It hasn't been offered to me.
What if it were? I have a distaste for hypotheticals just the same as you have a
distaste for speculation. All right, all right. That's enough business for now. We
can discuss it more tomorrow.
- Stamper, it's midnight. - Two things, boss. First, Janine Skorsky ambushed
Christina this morning. I intercepted her before she could ask too much. - Should
we be worried? I can keep this contained, sir. - I just wanted you to know. - All
right. What's the other thing? Doyle came back with his research. I just e-mailed
it to you. The President told you he and Tusk didn't know each other, right?
Yeah. He said they met once, I think, at a fund-raiser. That would appear to be a
lie. All right. I have it in front of me now. Doyle catalogued all the instances he
could find in which the two of them were in the same city at the same time.
Items in red are events that they both attended. And he found something else.
Back in Walker's private sector days, he was the C.E.O. of Pioneer Airlines.
Guess who owned a third of the stock when it was sold to united? My guess is
that he and Walker know each other quite well. All right. Let me look this over. I'll
call you back. I'm being played. But why? - Did I wake you again? - No. I'd like
to talk. Give me a moment. Carolina Parakeet. You're wrong, but you're close.
This is the Sun Conure. Interesting species, though. Voracious appetite. And he
was poison. Cats who ate him died. This bird is not the only thing you've
misidentified since you've been in St. Louis. You and Walker are old
friends. I wasn't sent here to vet you. Very good. Tell me why I am
here, then. So I can vet you. For the vice presidency? The President
values my advice, and he tends to follow it. Like when I advised him not
to make you Secretary of State. That was very bad advice. Yes, it was.
One of the larger mistakes I've made, and I very rarely make mistakes
of any size. You've proven yourself to be quite difficult. Kern, the
teachers' strike, now Matthews. You attribute all that to me? If I had to
guess. A smart man once said to me that speculation is a poor form of
politics. Why don't you stick to what you know, Raymond? What I know
is you are extremely effective at what you set your mind to. That is
valuable to me, somebody at his side with one foot in the executive
branch and one in the legislative. He is very open to the idea. My turn
to speculate. Your recommendation... comes at a price. Fact. I have
something that you want. Have I said something amusing? Oh, I've
just sat too many times on your side of the table not to enjoy the irony
of finding myself on this side of it. Would you like to hear what I want?
I don't shackle myself to people I don't know. What I want is one favor.
One and only one. Which is? I need to be certain you'll grant it before
I'll take the risk of being more specific. A blank check. Of sorts. You
would never grant anyone a blank check. No. But I'm not sitting on that
side of the table. We still believe in handshakes where I come from. Do
they still mean anything in Washington? - Who are you calling? - Car

service to get me to the airport. I will tell the President that I want
until Friday to think things over before I make my recommendation. Let
me know if you change your mind. And let me arrange the car for you.
Hi. I'd like to arrange a car, please.
- Worldwell isn't your vassal. - Yes, it is, entirely, if we're going to be blunt about
it. That's not what you proposed six months ago. It's what you signed up for
when you signed the contract. There was a good faith understanding that... And
you dissolved that good faith by disobeying me. - Disobeying you? - Yes. I
threaten you, don't I? Nothing about you threatens me. But maybe you should
take a leave of absence. Are you firing me? That's up to you, but right now you
should leave.
He never showed up once on any call sheet, phone log or schedule
during the campaign or since we've been in office. I'd love to believe
you, Linda, but I'm finding it very difficult. What would I gain by keeping
you in the dark? I am as shocked as you are, Frank. Well, don't let on
that you know. - Of course not. - What's the President saying? He wants
to meet with you Tuesday to get your report on Tusk. - That's a farce.Should I come up with a reason to delay the meeting? - No. Maybe we'll
learn something. What time? - 2:00 P.M. All right. I'll be there. Thank
you, Linda. - We have one week. - To accomplish what exactly? To force
Tusk's hand. He wants me beholden to him? No. We have to make him
come crawling to me What's his weakness? His fortune. Wouldn't you
say that's his strength? Not if it's slipping away. - How do you make 40
billion disappear overnight? - We can't. But maybe we can create the
illusion that it's in danger. The brief you gave me on his assets. How
much of his total net worth is... in nuclear power? About a third. Sixteen
reactors here in the states, 37 worldwide. Well, that's what we hit him
with. We go after his nuclear interests. Even so, he's got 25 billion in
other investments Doug, this is a man who built his fortune from
nothing. The money doesn't mean anything to him. It's what it
represents. - Which is what? - His life's work. Get Remy Danton on the
phone. Set up a meeting as quickly as you can. You got it. That's
precisely what makes him dangerous. He doesn't measure his wealth in
private jets but purchased souls. I've worked too hard to get within
arm's reach of the prize only to have my hand cut off just before I seize
it.
Ch.13
What was that? The faucet. It wouldn't shut up. - Did you sleep last night? - No.
Absolute discretion. Can I count on that? - Always. - Raymond Tusk. The
President wants to tap him as the new V.P. - You and I cannot let that happen. Why not? Because a third of his fortune is tied up in nuclear energy. Sancorp
does not want a pro-nuclear businessman in the White House. The market is
shifting toward natural gas anyway. But Tusk wants to stall that shift or reverse
it. Vice President doesn't have that kind of influence. This one would. He and
Walker are very close. And it's in neither of our best interests to seep Sancorp's
position in the marketplace diminished. - What's the ask? - Tusk won't accept the
nomination if he thinks his holdings are at risk. Sancorp needs to initiate a

hostile takeover. He's worth three times what sancorp is. I'm talking about the
subsidiaries. We go after the companies that refine and ship the uranium, - the
support system that... - Come on, Frank. There's stockholders to take into
account, a huge financial exposure. We just need to distract him. Send a few
token salvos and intimate there's more to come. All I'm asking is that you speak
to your client and see if this is something they might be willing to consider. The
President announces Tusk on Friday, so we don't have a lot of time. - I'll make
some calls. - Thank you, Remy.
We... stayed in touch. You've gotta be kidding me. [Chuckles] This town is way
too incestuous.
I must say, though, I think he is by far and away the best candidate. Why do you
say that? Doesn't it make sense for you to nominate someone you know so well? I
don't know him. That's why I sent you to St. Louis. Forgive me, Mr. President. I
didn't mean it that way. I meant that the world knows so well. You, me, everyone
knows Raymond Tusk. But you said he still seems ambivalent? Which is why I
think you should make a personal overture. Invite him to the White House. Well, I
don't want to appear desperate. I agree with Frank. If you're serious about Tusk,
you should wine and dine him. Make him feel very special. - Let's give him a few
more days. - We have less than a week, sir. I wouldn't wait any later than Friday.
What are you doing? - Shh. - Give me your phone. - Why? Just give it to me.
[Quietly] Have you noticed anything weird in here? Stuff moved around? Anything
missing? - No. - Anyone following you? What did you find out? This is serious, Zoe.
It goes way up, as high as the commissioner. I had to beg my contact at Metro to
give me this. [Frank]
How long? [Remy] The next board of directors meeting is three weeks from now.
That is too late. Remy, look, the President is gonna nominate Tusk in a week or
less I've urged Scott Cunningham to call a special meeting, but that doesn't
happen overnight. There's a lot of machinery in a corporate attack like this. I
want to meet Scott Cunningham myself. I'm not sitting you down with Scott. You
know the rules. These are extraordinary circumstances. Frank, Sancorp's officers
do not meet with politicians, period. You talk to me, I talk to Scott Cunningham,
and vice versa. That's how it works. All right, Remy. Whatever you think best. I'll
call you when I know more. Nancy! Of all the things I hold in high regard, rules
are not one of them. I will not place my fate solely in the hands of the middleman
if I can go directly to the supplier. Book a flight to Atlanta. Tomorrow morning. Let
Meechum know.
[Man] I'm not a fan of surprise visits, Frank. [Frank] Remy wouldn't arrange a
meeting. Remy Danton exists so we don't have to meet. I needed to speak with
you. There's a congressional travel report that puts you on a trip to Atlanta the
same day I was pulled out of an investors' briefing. Those are the sort of
coincidences we want to avoid. Were you briefing your investors on Raymond
Tusk? Meechum can be trusted. Why would I be speaking to them about Tusk? - I
thought Remy filled you in. - No. He didn't say anything about the vice
presidential nomination? He didn't. And I have a feeling I'd rather not be told.
Trust me, you want to know. I've appeared in front of grand juries before, Frank.
It's much easier when you can tell the truth. Please, don't put me in a position
where I have to lie. If Tusk has the President's ear, you will see this administration

shift its support toward nuclear energy and away from natural gas. His
subsidiaries and his suppliers. Go after them. Frank, we should end this
conversation right now. He will not accept the nomination if his assets are in a
blind trust and he can't fight off the threat. - Okay, we're done. - Scott... I don't
wanna hear another word. Go back to the airport. Figure out a good reason you
needed to be in Atlanta today. You can pull over at the next corner. I'll have my
car pick me up.
Claire is sleeping upstairs. You shouldn't have gone to see Cunningham. He says
you didn't bring up Tusk. You really think he'd admit to that? If we go through with
this, it's insider trading. He didn't strike me as a man hearing the news for the
second time. You want to believe I'm playing games? I can walk away from the
whole thing. But I'm all you've got right now. I'm the one doing you and Sancorp a
favor, not the other way around. I can tell when I'm being used, Frank. - I just
want to know what for. - I don't use people unless I can throw them away
afterwards. I'm trying to strengthen our partnership. Smells an awful lot like
bullshit. Don't condescend. Eight years I worked on your staff and never once
made it further than your front doorstep. Well, now I'm in your living room, Frank.
It's not because of what you taught me, it's because I finally woke up to what my
value is and how undervalued I was slaving away for you. This is business. Keep
your sob story to yourself. I want to maintain the influence that I have worked to
achieve in the White House, which translates into the influence that you have in
the White House, through me. I'll get in touch with Scott again tomorrow. See if
we can push this forward faster. Thank you, Remy.
The President specifically asked that I leave it off. Actually, that's good. We can
make that work. Can you set up a meeting between Birch and the President?
About what? So he can give him his two cents about who he will nominate. I don't
think we want Birch getting involved. - He'll never get the chance. - What are you
planning? Can you set up a meeting for later today? Yes or no? I'm sure I can
squeeze it in. Good. I'll talk to Birch. Get him on the phone. This has to stay off
the books, just like the dinner with Tusk. - Okay. - And finally, do you have a
scheduler that you can fire? Janine, I've got something for you. What is this? The
President's O.T.R. schedule between now and Friday. - How'd you get this? - It
doesn't matter. Raymond Tusk. These aren't the craziest meetings for him to be
having. Then why aren't they on the official schedule? - How did the schedule get
out? - It got leaked, sir, by someone in the scheduling office. - On purpose? Accidentally. A wrong attachment to an e-mail that went wide. Well, whoever it
was, I want them out. I already let them go. - Is, uh, Birch here yet? - He's waiting
outside. Well, cancel the meeting. Tell him something came up. - I don't want to
feed the frenzy. - Yes, sir. Give me the private line, please. There are three
satellite trucks on my street. I'm trapped in my own home. Somebody in the
scheduling office fucked up. Are you seriously considering Birch? Absolutely not.
We are losing control of the process, Garrett.
Every time I've spoken to you, you've never spoken back. Although
given our mutual disdain, I can't blame you for the silent treatment.
Perhaps I'm speaking to the wrong audience. Can you hear me? Are you
even capable of language, or do you only understand depravity? Peter,
is that you? Stop hiding in my thoughts and come out. Have the courage
in death that you never had in life. Come out, look me in the eye and
say what you need to say. There is no solace above or below. Only us...

Small, solitary, striving, battling one another. I pray to myself, for

myself.
This case is gonna get national attention because of who you're married to. I'll
have a platform to say what I want to say. That's worth more than anything you
could offer. Listen, I know we have different philosophies, but what we're trying to
achieve is exactly the same thing. We shouldn't be fighting each other. Do you
feel that? The kicking? I won't let people like you fuck up the world my child has
to live in. If I have to tell a few lies to do that... At least I learned one valuable
thing from you.
You know, I cannot guarantee you that all of this is gonna succeed. Oh, it's not
that. You can tell me, or I can keep guessing. You'll roll your eyes. Not at you. I
was thinking about when one of us dies. Whether it's you first or me... Well, if it is
me, and I'm sure it will be, you won't be alone for long. No. I mean, what will we
leave behind? We've accomplished a great deal. And I intend for us to accomplish
a lot more. But for whom? For each other. But if we're not... Ah, I'm being silly.
Well, how much would that cost me? That seems about right. Close your eyes.
Put out your hands. Now open them up. I'm trying to find this woman. If you
make me pull out my badge, I have to take you in. But I don't want to do that.
Let's not make a scene. I used to see her around. She left the business, though.
We haven't really kept in touch. A friend of mine saw her waiting tables at a
restaurant in Georgetown.
Sancorp's stock. It's up 35% in the last four hours. It's all over the financial news.
Tusk is making a play. Get Remy on the phone. I was just about to call you. I need
to meet with Tusk before he sees the President tonight. - He's already here. - At
the White House? He decided to come in a few hours early. His plane landed half
an hour ago. - Do you know where he is? - I don't know. He had his own car pick
him up. I just found out
Thirteen minutes from now, Tusk will meet with the President, if he
isn't there already. You've never been an ally, have you? Pressing on
with your slow, incessant march. Time would've killed Russo if I hadn't,
just as it will kill me someday. Kill us all. I wonder where he's at. Well,
maybe this is him. Freddy? Sorry, Frank. I had to trade up. Sancorp's a big fish,
but Raymond Tusk is a whale. Can I get you something, Frank? Nothing right now.
Thank you, Freddy. I'll leave y'all to it. I hope you don't mind that Remy told me
about this little secret of yours. I wanted a place where you'd feel comfortable.
Shouldn't you be at the White House? How could I pass up the chance to eat the
best ribs in Washington? Mm-mm-mm. Remy told you about Sancorp. As of
closing bell today, I own 3%. By the end of next week, I'll own over ten.
Enough to make sure they can't cause me any trouble A valiant effort,
though. I respect that. So why are we here? I told you I'd give you until
today to think things over. - I'm a man who keeps my word. - And I'm
still not interested. You wanted me to be more specific back in St. Louis.
That would be a good start. Why did Britain go to war with China 150
years ago? I'm in no mood for riddles. Humor me a moment. - Opium. - It
was bigger than opium, Frank. That was simply the excuse. Peking
wanted to call the shots instead of the west. It's the same problem
we're facing now. But nobody wants a trade war, much less a military

one. And what's your opium? Samarium-149. I need it for my reactors.

China controls 95% of the world's supply. You have a lot more influence
there than Garrett does. It's the reason I wanted you to stay there in the
first place. Well, that part I don't know yet. We'll have to wait and see
how things play out with the Chinese. I've already told you I will not do
a blank check. I must say I'm surprised, Frank. You have a reputation for
pragmatism. And I also have avoided a reputation for indentured
servitude. I never make an offer more than twice, Frank. Tell me now if I
can count on your cooperation. You're not offering cooperation, you're
demanding tutelage. So let me make you a proposal. I am absolutely
willing to work together as equals. I will take your opinions seriously,
just as the President does. But I will not bind myself to them in advance.
If that doesn't interest you, fair enough. Good luck finding a vice
President in the next four days who will prove as pragmatic as I. You
can't purchase loyalty, Raymond. Not the sort I have in mind. If you
want to earn my loyalty, then you have to offer yours in return. And if
we can agree to that... Well, you're a man with imagination. Wait.
Meechum. I take care of my own, and you've proved yourself to be very
valuable. I would like you to be part of my security detail once I get confirmed.
I'm capitol police. Then I'll put you on the Secret Service. If you're interested.
Good. And I'm extremely grateful. Keep being valuable. That's the best way to
show your gratitude. I will, Mr. Vice President.
I need you to be completely honest with me, Christina. About what? The other
day, when I said that you should tell me if anyone from the press started
harassing you... Zoe Barnes? You said you wanted to talk about something on the
phone. Oh, no. That can wait. V I, um... earlier today... The rowing machine, I saw,
is broken. Oh, it's my fault. The cable broke. I haven't been able to replace it yet.
She's trying to smear congressman Underwood. It's a coordinated campaign by
everyone at Slugline. But she knew things. Like what? And? Want me to drive
alongside you, sir? No. You stay here. Yes, sir. You ready?
Ch.1
A third-term congresswoman? A universally admired incumbent who also
happens to be a war veteran. So just consider that for a moment. They'll draw
votes from one another. Oh, I'm not saying you wouldn't have to fight for it. But
I'd be willing to give you the ammunition.
They're the two most senior members in the caucus. It's their turn. Mr. President,
what if we let the caucus pick? Let it be a wide open race. Both men are qualified.
The leadership should be united in this. We don't want to be backing different
candidates. So we stay out of it, and neither of us backs anyone. I like it. The
caucus will respect someone who did it the old-fashioned way. Well, gentlemen,
it's your call to make. Figure it out amongst yourselves, - let me know what you
decide. - Thank you, Mr. President.
What are you doing here? Ask me what I want to order. Have you decided, sir? I
need you to quit your job. Tell Leon it's your last day. Why? Act normal. - Would
you want a side with that? - They found you once. We can't take the chance
they'll find you again. - What am I supposed to do about money? - Do as I say. Go
home and pack your things. I'll come by around ten. - I don't get a say in any... ? -

Stop it. One suitcase. That's it. - Can you at least tell me... ? - I'll take the
shepherd's pie with a side of brussels sprouts. To go.
And, sir? Birthday cards have started to arrive. A few presents. Thank-you notes.
Inventory the presents. Anything valuable... - Goes in the conference room. Anything cheap... - Goes to the interns. - You know what to do with the cards. Yes,
sir.
- So it's true. - It was a mistake. You wanna see our kids? I can show you pictures.
- Mrs. Applebaum... - Who the fuck do you think you are? I'm sorry. You're sorry? I
don't think you're sorry. And don't think for a second you're gonna use that baby
to get money out of us. - He doesn't even know I'm pregnant. - But you knew he
was married. How could you? - Did he talk about us? - No. Lying bitch. Am I
embarrassing you? Did you think about how you would... humiliate me and my
kids? Use a condom the next time you fuck somebody's husband.
- Are you packed? - I'm not going anywhere. So you didn't quit today. I did, but I
changed my mind. This isn't your decision to make. I'm keeping my job and I'm
keeping this apartment. No, you're not. - You promised you'd make this go away. And you're starting over... I already started over. I don't want to start over again. I
wish you didn't have to. Get out! Lower your voice. I'll fucking kill you. Go ahead.
I am the only one who can protect you. Don't you see that? You have no idea how
much danger you're in. Hey. Start packing.
It's good to get a head start, - so by the time the announcement... - If these are
my last few days before I never have privacy again. I intend to savor these
moments for as long as I can But, sir, in terms of safety... Until I'm confirmed as
vice president, security is at my discretion, is that correct? - Technically, yes,
but... - Then that's settled.
The passenger door was open and he was halfway out. They think that... he
might have had second thoughts. If I speak to Barney Hull, he'll confirm that?
What are you suggesting, Zoe? Maybe there was foul play. If there was a hint of
foul play, don't you think the police would have investigated? The same police
that buried his DUI? There's a connection between you. Listen to you. You sound
ludicrous. I'm just asking questions. No, you're connecting dots that don't exist.
You want me to just walk away, act as if I don't know anything? Yes, I got Peter
out of a jam. Yes, I sent him to speak to Kapeniak. But beyond that, there's
nothing to know. Can you blame me if I find it difficult to trust you right now?
Trust me or not, but I'm about to be confirmed as the vice president. And our
relationship extends to the Oval Office now. Don't step out of the sunlight for no
reason. Let's start this new chapter with a clean slate. Now, you sleep on that and
I'll be in touch.
- What? - You signed a consent form. No, I didn't. You forged my signature? Did a
Mrs. Applebaum pay you a visit? You realize - what you're doing is... - Civil, - not
criminal. - Have you thought this out? - Because when we go to court... - You
mean six months from now? You're expecting in four, no? That's four months
without the medicine you need. I'm willing to let your child wither and die inside
you if that's what's required. But neither of us wants that. Now tell me, am I really
the sort of enemy you want to make? But here's the alternative: this office, this
staff, The CWI could be yours, and you and me, we wash our hands of each other.
- You're trying to buy me. - No. When we first met, I promised to empower you.

I'm fulfilling that promise. - How do I get screwed? - You don't. I resign. You take
my place. - No strings? - None.
Have you thought about what we discussed? I think you're right. We should start
with a clean state. What about our text messages? And the contact - Are we
good? Yeah. We can put all this other nonsense behind us and trust one another
and continue to help one another? I'd like that. Then consider the slate clean.
Answer me one thing. The passenger seat? - I thought we just agreed... - I want
to believe you, But I need details, more than what you're sharing. What's your
question? The night Russo fell off the wagon, he was at a fund-raiser, - the
McNeally Cancer Institute. - All in the police report. Rachel Posner was at the
hotel that night Who's that? The call girl who was with Russo when he was
arrested. I didn't know her name. She disappeared, Francis When? Don't act
surprised. I showed the bellmen a photo. One of them remembers seeing her. The
girl's a prostitute. I'm sure she frequents many hotels. Well, now you sound like
Ms. Skorsky talking. I haven't discussed this with anyone. I wanted to ask you
first. I have no idea what happened that night except that Peter started drinking
again. I don't know who was or wasn't there. I wish I was. Maybe I could've
stopped him. - Listen to what I am saying. - I'm trying to protect us both. These
are questions anyone could ask. But no one is except you. I can't imagine what
you're after. I took a chance, showed up at your house and placed myself at your
feet. Crossed ethical lines, professionally, physically, and I hold myself
accountable for that. Those were my choices and I can live with them. I'd like to
move forward, but I need to know exactly what I was a part of, that... that I
wasn't a part of someone's... Finish your thought. A part of someone's murder.
Jesus. I wanna believe you, Francis. Damn.
What did you think of the files? - There's plenty to work with. - Did you look at
your own? There was nothing there. - Should there be? - No. Even if you're lying,
the fact I haven't been able to find anything tells me you're very good at covering
your tracks. That's valuable to me. Here's our battleground. One hundred and 13
votes. You have the skeletons. If I lose, - they'll come after me. - That's a risk
you'll have to take. How do I know you're not just using me? Throwing a wrench
into someone else's bid? That's another risk. The alternative is you wait ten
years. You chose me for a reason. I'd like to know what it is. All right. How many
missile strikes did you launch? - But you did it anyway. - Enough to keep me
awake at night. Yes, I did. - How many women and children? - Too many. And you
launched those missiles knowing all those innocent people would die. I had orders
to eliminate the enemy. Which you carried out expertly and efficiently. Have you
ever killed anyone? No. I watched. Apartment buildings, entire villages... gone,
I'd prefer not to talk about it, if that's all right. You did what needed to be done
and that's why I chose you, Jackie. Service background, clean history, photogenic.
The whole package. But more importantly.. ruthless pragmatism. Are we working
together or not?
I'll be down in a minute. Did you think I'd forgotten you? Perhaps you
hoped I had. Don't waste a breath mourning Ms. Barnes. Every kitten
grows up to be a cat. They seem so harmless at first, small, quiet,
lapping up their saucer of milk. But once their claws get long enough,
they draw blood, sometimes from the hand that feeds them. For those
of us climbing to the top of the food chain, there can be no mercy There
is but one rule: hunt or be hunted. Welcome back.

Ch.2
- Watch out, Wes. - I hope I'm not interrupting. - Not at all. - This is something
else. Security specs. They had to work fast. Watch yourself. It's like a war zone
around here. The idea is to keep the war from getting in. How's the whip's race
coming, Congressman?
One heartbeat away from the presidency, and not a single vote cast in my name.
- Democracy is so overrated. - "...on which I am about to enter, - so help me
God." - ...and that I will well and faithfully discharge the duties of the office on
which I am about to enter, so help me God.
I lean more toward Raymond's thinking. If we antagonize the Chinese, we could
undo years of progress. Allow me to do this quietly, with a soft touch. I won't
antagonize them, sir. The last thing we want to do is rock the boat. What do you
have in mind, Catherine? A suggested agenda, not a demand. We'll keep it midlevel. I won't get anywhere near it. - Raymond? - I've voiced my concerns. - A
very soft touch. - You have my word, sir.
- Welcome to the West Wing. - Thank you, sir. The president is like a lone tree in
an empty field. He leans whichever way the wind is blowing. And right now,
Raymond Tusk blows far too strong from the West. - Is that a wig? - No. - He's
been growing it out for months. - Here, this way.
She mentioned you were interested in the whip's race. Oh, no. Oh, I wish she
hadn't. - Why not? - Because it's ridiculous. Is it? I just mentioned it offhand. The
whole Webb and Buchwalter thing, it's just... - Complete mess. - But I wasn't
serious. I think you should be serious. Do you want to do it? I don't have the
experience, Ted. And I don't... - Yes or no? - Yes, of course. Someday. But now? I
don't have the money they do. - Unless you use mine. - You can't waste your
money on... If I funnel my PAC money to some folks who are on the fence, round
up a couple dozen commitments before you announce, that would make you an
instant contender. Now, tell me that's a waste. We're talking hundreds of
thousands. It's not a Christmas present, Jackie. With you as whip, I have a strong
ally in the leadership. I stand to gain as much as you. Now, hang on one second. I
don't know where the... <i>How did it go?</i> <i>Did he buy it?</i> Whatever
bug you put in his ear, it burrowed deep. It was easy. The man adores you like
you're his own child. But you sure as hell better make me chief deputy. - I need to
win first. - Ted and I make two, 111 to go. It's always good when the chief deputy
knows her arithmetic. Fuck off. Let's start taking names.
- What's their relationship? - He's has had his ear for years. - An advisor... - More
of a mentor. And one whose advice is not easily dismissed. He's gonna keep
pushing back on cyberwarfare. - Not if I get it on the agenda. - Especially if you
get it on the agenda. Tusk is not gonna take any chances when the next Joint
Commission talks come around. You agreed with him in the meeting. If we had
ganged up, he would've taken a firmer position. For all we know, he's convincing
the president right now to change his mind. Now, we need to remove that option
as a possibility. - How? - Force the Chinese to confront the issue now, - this round
of talks. - I promised the president a soft touch. - I can't intentionally break my
promise. - What if it was unintentional? Cathy, if you don't like how the table is
set, turn over the table.

Havemeyer's been trying to shove me down the totem pole for years. I won't
give him the satisfaction. Well, I can respect that, but my hands are tied. It's a
delicate matter, but we are in communication with the Chinese government - as
to how to move forward. - This mean the US will back down - on cyberattacks? The United States never backs down, particularly on issues that are high priority
to us. The delegation overstepped its bounds. But Cathy couldn't throw her own
people under the bus. She should've consulted us first before speaking publicly.
The press was on her doorstep and the president was in another hemisphere.
Look, I'm not condoning what she did, but she had to do something. She made a
gut call and she acted. We have to distance ourselves from this.
You think I'm insane? I don't think you're insane. I think you've been
through a lot. You're trying to make sense of it all. - I know I'm right. I'm sure you believe you are. It's a fact that he helped cover up the DUI.
Imagine if one of your reporters came to you with this story. - Could you
print a word of it? - No, but I'd have them keep digging. Would you? If
you're honest with yourself, wouldn't you tell them it seemed farfetched? Your notes aren't convincing. The police reports don't prove a
link. - And the speculative leaps you're making? - I know. Hold yourself
to the same standards you hold your staff. You and Zoe were seeing
each other. I'm assuming. Maybe I'm wrong. No, we were. When I lost
my first wife, it didn't add up. Who dies of breast cancer at 31? I wanted
to sue, doctors, the hospital, everyone. I thought they were hiding
something. No. Grief demands an answer, but sometimes there isn't
one. Her life couldn't be saved. Period. What do I do? You can call me
anytime.
Just a minute, please! He does not deserve a medal. - That man needs to be
taken out and shot! - I am begging you. Please! - No! I said just a minute! - Do
not make a scene!
You think I don't want to smash things? I know what that anger is more than you
can imagine. - When he was on top of me... - - We don't have to talk about it. No,
I want to. When he was on top of me, I pressed my hand... ...with everything I
could, I pressed it into his face. I pressed it so hard, I broke his nose. That didn't
stop him. He shoved the sheets in my mouth. I could barely breathe. Every time I
think of her, pinned down like that, I strangle her, Francis... so she doesn't
strangle me. I have to. We have to. The alternative is... ...it's unlivable. You should
go to sleep. I'm not sure if I can. Then you should go back downstairs. You'll still
feel the hate in the morning. You'll use that. But not on him.
- Think she overstepped on purpose? - Cathy would never disobey. - Not on
purpose. - Raymond, I've got Frank here. <i>- Just the three of us?</i> - Just us
three. Morning, Raymond. My contacts in Beijing tell me the minister of
commerce is in a tizzy. <i>Wants to use this as an excuse</i> <i>to start
clenching fists.</i> Either I turn my back on Cathy or I stand behind her. <i>- It's
got to be the former.</i> - I agree. If you don't apologize, <i>you go from ruffling
feathers</i> <i>to plucking them.</i> And the Chinese won't stand for that, Mr.
President. What about perceived miscommunication between me and my
Cabinet? <i>Mr. President, right now the goal is to resume the talks.</i> I
wouldn't worry about perceptions. <i>Frank is right.</i> <i>We need to be
pragmatic.</i> Worry about appearances later All right, I'll have Catherine draft

an apology. No, it has to come from you, Mr. President If the apology is to mean
anything, it must come from the White House. That is certainly the more likely to
succeed. Fine. I'll do it, then. <i>- Thank you, Raymond.</i> - Thank you, Garrett.
Do you hear how he still uses the President's given name? And that Walker
doesn't flinch at the lack of respect it implies? Sir, forgive me if this isn't the case,
but you seem a bit hesitant. - Why do you say that? - Well, you've raised a good
point about public perception. I don't want you to think - that I'm dismissing your
concerns casually. - It's a concern for you, too? - There is some insight into what
Cathy brought up. - Backpedaling as weakness. Well, it's always a coin toss with
the Chinese. But sometimes, standing your ground is better than giving in. They
respect you more when you show strength. Are you changing your mind on this,
Frank? I just think it's important that you do what you think is best. The American
people voted you president, not me, not Raymond Tusk. - I'll let you know what I
decide. - Thank you, sir.
You and I, we need to work together on this, Wes. - Before we both get screwed. I agree. One of us drops out, throws support to the other. All you can offer me is
Ethics, which nobody wants. Let's put this to bed, Wes.
- Don't be stubborn, Jackie. - You think he'd take it? He was willing to take a deal
from Webb. You're the only person he hates more. He's a brute, but he's not an
idiot. Well, I know you're not refusing out of loyalty. - True. - So it's because of
Ted. You think you are hot shit, don't you? Can we set egos aside and talk
business like the adults we are? - I want more than Ways and Means. - Tell me. I
want Havemeyer gone. Not just retired... ...politically dead. That race was 12
years ago. That was 12 years I could've been in the Senate. Revenge? Really? Not
revenge. Equity. - Well, what are you gonna do? - Buchwalter won't budge. You
know, there's nothing I despise more in life than pettiness. I could approach
Webb, but I don't have enough to offer him. He'd never drop out. Too much pride.
- I'm not sure what to do. - This is my file on Ted. An illegitimate daughter. The
nanny, of course. Her name is Emily Rodriguez. Nineteen, cerebral palsy. I know
about Emily. - Why are we having this conversation? - It's complicated. The
daughter? It's very black-and-white to me. I've known Ted since I was born. He
and my father were very close. - Yeah, I'm aware. - He's always looked out for me.
He got me into West Point. He funded my first race. I like Ted. He's always been a
team player. - It's unfortunate he has this secret. - It was a mistake. One he's
always regretted. After she was born, he asked me to check in on her because he
couldn't. - Because he trusted me. - I see. You came in here knowing what you
had to do, hoping I would pull a rabbit out of a hat so you wouldn't have to. I
know the girl. I know her mother. These people don't deserve this. I've given you
all I can. Whatever you decide is your prerogative. - But maybe I misjudged you. Ted is family to me. An adopted daughter, in lieu of a real one.
It caught me by surprise, too. Did you say anything to him after I hung up
yesterday? - No. Have you spoken to him? - <i> A few minutes ago.</i> He said
he did what he thought was right. <i>Well, there's nothing</i> <i>we can do to
combat that.</i> He doesn't usually go against my advice without giving me fair
warning. - What are you suggesting, Raymond? - He's easily manipulated. Clearly, not in this case. - <i> We need to fix this.</i> <i>- And I'm counting on
you for that, Frank.</i> - Let me freshen your memory. <i>I don't owe you any
favors.</i> <i>I promised to work with you, not for you.</i> And when it comes
to China, we both want the same thing. - So we need to work together. <i>- To

convince Garrett he should retract.</i> To support the president in the path that
he's chosen. While he continues to antagonize them publicly. While he continues
to benefit from a bump in approval ratings. <i>A tough stance on China is
popular, and we can use that to our advantage.</i> <i>Let's just be patient and
see if we can smooth things over from back channels.</i> If I don't see any
results, you won't have my patience for long.
Well, he's always been the sort of man who could be bought, It's not the
chairmanship that bought him, Ted. What do you mean? I'm telling you this so
that you have time to call your wife and prepare your statement. What's my out?
What's he want from me? There is no out. He wants it to hurt. - You told him? - I
just promised him - that I could make it happen. - You can't do this, Jackie. The
story's breaking tomorrow. - What part of it? - No names. Just that you have a
daughter. Have you thought about what this will do to Diane? - To our sons? - I
hate myself for it. - But I'll get over that. - What about her? - Emily? You can't
even say her name, can you? - Don't lecture me. You've never been in the same
room with her. She's had the best treatment available. Alone. Hooked up to
machines. Surrounded by nurses who punch out at dinnertime. - You don't know
what I've been through. - You? What about her? - I can't do more than I've done. That's bullshit, Ted. - You could've found a way. - I won't defend myself to you.
Don't. Save that for your wife. This isn't to punish you, Ted. It's simpler than that.
When I first encouraged you to run for office, it's because I sensed how
unstoppable you were. But I never thought I'd have to lie down on the tracks
myself If you're going to put my neck in the noose, look me in the eye while you
do it. I'm very grateful for all that you've done for me. You'll make an excellent
whip, Jacqueline. Now, please get out of my office.
Ch.3
There are two types of vice presidents: doormats and matadors. Which do you
think I intend to be? Raymond. We give the Republicans exactly what they want. Retirement age? - Yes. That's a line in the sand we cannot cross. We will cross it,
eventually. So why keep fighting it? I can push this through the Senate, and once
I do, the president will announce a major bipartisan agreement in the State of the
Union. We avoid a government shutdown and the White House gets credit. It's a
huge risk, and if it fails, a huge embarrassment. The embarrassment will be
entirely my own. This is on my shoulders. Even so, the president is gonna require
some serious persuasion. - I'm happy to talk to him. - No. No... I'll do it. He'll be
more amenable if it comes from a friend. You're right. A trusted confidant. Let me
test the waters. The Cult of Tusk. one. But that one disciple just so happens to be
the most powerful man in the free world. For now.
The e-mail you sent, has anyone else seen it? Except for the agent that alerted
me, no. Other agencies might have stumbled upon this. Even so, they probably
ignored it. Any idea who's making the posts? Deep Web forums. Almost
impossible to trace. Lone wolf, most likely. - I want you to find him. - We need a
direct threat to life. The vice president just assumed office. I can't have this
conspiracy stuff going mainstream. - This sort of thing usually fizzles out. - I can't
take the chance. I want you to find him and put him away. - He hasn't committed
a crime. - But he wants to. - So help him. - That requires manpower. - You've got
men. - It exposes me, Doug. I've always kept you informed because you're an old
pal and I trust you. But... We're talking about an operation. I'm an old pal who

now works at the White House. Between old pals, I've been stuck at the executive
liaison for way too long.
You have Mendoza's assurance he'll work with us? - I do. - I don't want to put our
necks out there just to have the guillotine fall. You won't. My neck will be right out
there with you. Francis faints at the sight of blood. He'd never let them break the
skin. To unity.
- It sounds windy. Where are you? - <i> Top of my building.</i> <i>Got a bird
feeder up here.</i> Nice work with the president. I hear we have a green light.
He pushed back in the beginning but, yeah, his writers are reworking the speech
now. I'm very close to a deal. Sixty-eight, 64 in five years. - Spending cuts as
discussed. - That rock solid? <i>- Soon as we shake hands.</i> - What's the
holdup? Curtis Haas, which isn't a surprise. I'm meeting with him soon. - He's
the final hurdle. - <i> Cutting it pretty close, Frank.</i> Well, this is... this is
historic. The Republicans have wanted entitlement reform since Johnson. Curtis
will come around. In the meantime, we should get the new retirement ages <i>into his speech.</i> - I would stay away from specifics. - I mean, even if it
passes, the House... - I know the House better than you know birds. Believe me
when I say they'll pass the Senate version. I'll talk to the president.
- Listen to me... - If we get these records, I'll need your help tracking timelines,
piecing together.. No! You want somebody to hold your hand and say it's OK to
go on this fucking goose chase. You shouldn't be teaching in Ithaca. You're
better than that. - You should be back... - I belong here. Droning on to a bunch of
hung over English majors? - Exactly. - You're wrong about the truth. There is
objective truth. He killed her. You know it's a fact. Here's a fact: my mom has
ten, 15 years left at best. I've seen her more in the past month than since I left
for school. It's simpler here. It's quiet. I need that. She needs me. I'm sorry,
Lucas. I'm sorry that night how I reacted. I'm sorry you lost your girlfriend. I'm
sorry the world is this fucked up. I really am. But I can't help you.
- Where's everyone else? - I did you a disservice yesterday. We shouldn't have
put you on the spot in front of all the leadership. Have a seat, Curtis. We know
that you have an obligation to take a firm stance, but entitlement reform is
something you ran on, and now it's within your grasp. So tell us your fears. That
the Democrats get another win. We suffer in the midterms and the next
Congress dismantles the agreement. You think we're being disingenuous. My
constituents don't trust the administration. I can't have them thinking the wool
has been pulled over our eyes. As I suspected. Hector? Frank and I propose this:
we include a super majority point of order against revisiting the issue for ten
years. You'll have it in black-and-white. A serious, long-term commitment with
no opportunity to dismantle. That's on top of everything else we asked for. VA
services and FEMA stay at current levels. Everything else at 80 to a hundred
percent of the cuts you propose. You get your win, Curtis. We just avoid disaster.
Maybe the country needs to see what disaster looks like. The tea party is a
strong voice, and you're its bullhorn. Show your people that voice can translate
into law, and not just add to the noise. Fifteen years before revisitation, not ten.
- OK. - And if the House fails to pass the bill after we do, you go on record
blaming your own party for the gridlock. I believe we have a deal.

The House sent a bill to the Senate. What Frank wants to send back bears zero
resemblance. Because it's bipartisan, unlike ours. That sounds like something
Frank would say. - I'm not Frank. - He has a desk in your office. - If this bill
passes in the Senate... - It won't. We should be prepared, Bob. Well, I'm
prepared to wait and see. Have a good afternoon, ladies. - Ladies? - He's
threatened. - He's a pig. - Give him time. He used to have two white, middleaged guys at his side. Now he's got a black guy and a woman 20 years his junior.
Who knows how to shoot a rifle. We just need to keep at him.
Neither is Mendoza's, but... - I should've stuck to my guns. The vote isn't until
tomorrow afternoon. I'll reach out to Mendoza... This is the State of the Union,
Frank. I won't be left in limbo. If we need to start rewriting that speech now, I
don't want to waste a minute. I can turn this around, sir. Raymond told me this
was your idea, to pursue this compromise. - I suggested it as an option. - No, he
said you bullied him into it. That he thought it was a mistake. If he felt so
strongly, he should've have advised you otherwise. Raymond's not a politician.
He relies on our political expertise as much as we rely on his business acumen.
Maybe we shouldn't point fingers until there's a problem. - You wouldn't call this
a problem? - Not if it's solved before it becomes one. You see, I wanted a vice
president who can manage Congress, not one who bites off more than he can
chew. Then have faith you made the right choice, sir. Whatever faith I have... is
quickly evaporating. Don't humiliate the administration, Frank. You're part of it
now. - Yes, sir. - We're done. Tusk is blocking my way. Goodwin at my heels.
There can be no false steps now. The higher up the mountain, the more
treacherous the path.
- You're heading in? - Mendoza's an early riser. - You'll figure this out. - I need to
prove what the vice president is capable of. Don't prove it to them. Prove it to
me. Curtis has me by the tea bags, Frank. I don't have a working majority
without him. - He wasn't elected leader. - True. But I have to pick my battles. If
you can't control him on budgetary issues... It's not just him. It's the 15 senators
he has under his thumb. I won't be the leader next year if they turn on me. So
he wants to be courted. Sit him down... I already tried talking to him. He wouldn't
budge. - We'll both talk. - He's made his position clear. We all shook hands at
this table. The most I can do is put the substitute amendment on the floor with
limited debate. And your people can say whatever they want for the record, but
we're gonna vote the amendment down. I'm not interested in symbolic gestures.
Well, that's all I can offer. - Where's your courage? - My power has limits, Frank.
Five Republicans makes you the deciding vote. Now, it's highly doubtful we can
get them to vote against their own party. - But they might abstain. - - You'd need
ten. Entitlement is the Republicans' white whale. I can get at least two to flip.
Then you'd only need six abstaining. Erikson's already making calls. - Donner. And Pulaski. Get me a call list so I can tag-team with him. Got it right here. We
have to get medieval. When it comes to parliamentary procedure, there's not a
rule I don't know. Find me the ones we can bend. Mark, you're a sensible man.
Tell you what, what if both VA hospitals in your district... Yes, both of them. Hold
on. - Who? - Moriarty. I promised him an amendment for his bovine research
center. - That makes six. - Mark, if I can get you funding for both, are you with
us? Excellent. Well, you come by the White House and have lunch with me
sometime soon. Bye-bye. We have the numbers. Once you break the quorum
call, it's gonna be a little tricky. Tell me on the way. Sir. - Sir, we might not have

a majority. - What? The Dems are poaching people. Donner, Pulaski. Maybe
more. - Voting for the amendment? - Some. Others abstaining. - I'm still trying to
figure out who. - We need to delay - and figure out what is going on. - Quorum
call. There's 49 hours until the recess. We call a name an hour. - Mr. Avendale? Here. Excuse me, I do believe you're sitting in my chair. Mr. Drewery, what is the
order of business? - We are in a quorum call, sir. - Then why aren't you calling the
roll? - We are, sir, in a deliberate manner. - Let's speed it up. - Mr. Brown. - Here.
More expeditious than that. - Mr. Burr. They have a quorum. We don't have the
numbers. - Out, let's get all our people out. - Mr. Demerell. - Mr. Darling. Mr.
Daswani. - Here. Mr. President, a quorum is not present The chair recognizes the
minority leader, Mr. Erikson. Mr. President, "I move to direct the sergeant at arms
to compel the attendance of absent senators, that warrants for the arrests of all
senators not sick nor excused be issued under the signature of the presiding
officer." The question is on the motion, all those in favor say aye. - Aye. - All those
opposed nay. - Nay! - The ayes have it, and the motion is agreed to. The sergeant
of arms is hereby instructed to compel the attendance of absent senators. It feels
good to be back in Congress. <i>The Democrats have now empowered</i>
<i>the Capitol Police</i> <i>the vice president is, quote:</i> <i>"Replacing
democracy with tyranny.</i> <i>He's transformed the Senate into a police state
within the Capitol." But...</i> Well, it'll be even harder to stay out of the news
now.
And who do you have in mind to conduct the interview? Does this mean I have
the job? It means you still haven't been ruled out. Well, I'll consider that progress.
This is the Democratic cloak room, Hector. Yours is on the other side. - What
you're doing won't work. - It might. Which is why you made the long walk over
here. Ice water? I have my people in planes, trains and automobiles. All I need is
six to make my quorum. Think what I can do with 26 votes, and I've got 45.
You won't be able to get your planes and trains back here fast enough.
I'll roll those dice. The sergeant at arms is very good at his job. And this
is the perfect way to show Curtis who's in charge. - I'm doing you a
favor, Hector. - Tell me what you want. What I've always wanted. The
package we shook hands on. Then I'll give you your Senate back. - They
can't come back voluntarily? - Pick your six best actors. - We can't give in,
Hector. - We wouldn't be in this situation had you toed the party line. - Mr.
Mendoza is present. - Under protest. - Ms. Cornwall is present. - Under protest. Mr. President, a quorum is now present. - You can pass the amendment. - I'll just
filibuster the main bill. - No, you won't. - Watch me. - As much as I'd like to see
you hold your piss for two days, we struck a deal with Hector. Passage of the
substitute amendment constitutes passage of the main bill. It's far more
important than the selling price. Let's go. I want an immediate call to the roll.
Don't let half a second pass. - Yes, sir. - A quorum is present. The question is on
the adoption of the substitute amendment to HR 934, the yeas and nays have
been ordered and the clerk will call the roll. - Mr. Abner. - Aye! I'd like to propose
an amendment to HR 934. Mr. Haas, you are out of order, the roll call has begun,
- the clerk will continue to call roll. - Mr. Brown. Mr. Burr.
We should add miracle worker to your rsum, Frank. Lazarus makes
for a good magic act, but life would've been a lot easier if the bastard
hadn't died in the first place. Well, the president wanted to go ballistic,
but I calmed him down. <i>I said don't worry,</i> <i>Frank will pull

this out.</i> Did you? I don't blame you for being two-faced, Raymond.
It's good politics, as long as you don't get caught at it. Now, Frank, if
you think that I... <i>It's OK, Raymond.</i> Jesus forgives you. Good
night.
Step into the room. Closer. Closer. - State your name and the date. - Wait, why?
State your name and the date, please. Lucas Goodwin. February 13th. - Year. Two thousand fourteen. Are you currently or have you ever been a member... What is this? - Are you or have you ever been a member of any law enforcement
agency? - I already told you I wasn't. - Two-step verification. No. I'm not and I
haven't. Are you currently or have you ever been an informant for law
enforcement? - No. - - You think you might've been followed? - Anything strange
the past few weeks? - You know what? This is making me feel uncomfortable.
We're not fucking around here. If you think the FBI hasn't been tracking your
posts, then you're naive. What are you going to do with the<i> Herald?</i> Nothing. - Then why did you want access? I already had access. It's how I
contacted you in the first place. I just needed to know if you were serious. Why
did you contact me? Because you're desperate. And I'm not fond of authority.
I spoke to Jackie. You have my support in the House. But it hasn't passed the
House yet. We've a long march before it arrives on the president's desk. As for
me, I used to be on the edge of the frame. Now, I'm only three feet away.
Ch.4
Strange not seeing your name up there. "To improve is to change..."
"To perfect is to change often." You know your Churchill. Inscribed on
the watch you gave me - when I left for Glendon Hill. - Was it? - Nancy
arranges all the gifts. - She knows you well. - As much as I'm enjoying
this little... - I got you two more votes. Partridge and Krauss. Is this
Raymond's way of extending an olive branch? - It's a start. - Two votes
is a twig. It's not a branch. - Which is why I'm here. - Well, the vote is at
5:00. - We have less than three hours. - Two hours and 49 minutes. We have made more happen in less. - Is that the watch? - No, it's nicer. - So
why did Raymond have a change of heart? If the government grinds to a halt,
that benefits no one. We want the president focused on China, not distracted by
furloughs and protests. You take direction from Jacqueline. She's not gonna like
that very much. - Bossing you around? - Having me around. I don't blame her.
- That'll take most of the heat off. - We're wasting time. - I gotta get to work. Take Remy with you. Shouldn't we divide and conquer? It's harder to say no
twice than once. I'll stay out of your way. We're on the same side of the fence.
You're late to the party. Think of Remy as the guy who shows up with a six-pack
after the liquor stores close. - Who's on your plate? - Donald Blythe. Do
you really think that's the best use of your time? If I can get him to turn
his people. A lot of eggs to put in one basket. We only have one
basket. Jacqueline, may I use your office, - for old time's sake? - I serve
at the pleasure of the vice president. Normally all I need to sway
Donald Blythe is patience and time, Tick tock.
Ch.4

- I don't drink caffeine. - Then decaf. - Still has caffeine. - Well, enjoy the free
oxygen It gets stuffy over there in the Longworth building. - Coffee for me, and...
- Seltzer water, if you have it. I'm sure we do. Now, I can understand if you
might hold a grudge. I don't hold grudges, Frank. I just don't negotiate with
people who are fundamentally deceptive. I never lied to you, Donald. You
promised to seek my counsel, which you never once did. We had to move the
education bill in a direction I knew would make you unhappy. - I saw no reason to
frustrate... - You eviscerated the unions. - You federalized performance
standards. - If we hadn't done that, the bill would've been dead in the water.
Now you want to cut the pathetic level of funding you did manage to pass. Isn't
some funding better than none? A flatline will send a louder message than life
support. Look, I'm impressed with the little coalition you've cobbled together, but we... - Not so little. Twenty-eight votes. - And you need them all. - Well, really
only half. - Half of zero is still zero. - I had to pull every trick in the book to get
entitlement through the Senate. If it fails in the House, we don't get a round two.
This is a one-time deal. It should never have passed the Senate to begin with.
Can we start over? May I offer you an apology? Deaf ears, Frank. I withdrew
myself from the education fight and that is my cross to bear. But I will be
damned if I will make the same mistake twice. This sort of stubbornness makes
you no better than the tea party. - Except for the fact... - that we happen to be
right. Just a few more minutes, Donald. You haven't even had your seltzer yet.
They have seven other data centers spread across the Northeast. - Those aren't
good odds. - Well, if we can access one, I should be able to talk to the other
seven. They all look like that. - Fort Knox wrapped in a nuclear bunker. - How do
we get in? Well, we don't. You do. What...? How? What's my reason? You're
writing a story on cyberterrorism. It's free publicity.
- Does the press know? - Not yet. Can you keep in touch with him? I need to
pummel our lunch guests into submission. You got 'em close, but relax. Listen
more. They want their hands held, not someone in their face. I know how to
whip votes. Best caviar in DC, ladies and gentlemen. - We can't let you pay for
that. - Then don't eat it. But if you do, I won't tell anyone. You were saying about
the education bill...
I feel terrible saying it, but part of me is looking forward to her not being lucid.
At least then she won't realize what's happening. I should have thought of
this before. Appeal to the heart, not the brain. Forgive my ignorance,
but.. ...has there been any progress with research? Some. Genetic
testing, vascular manipulation. But it's slow They won't come up with anything in
time for Marjory. We're focusing on quality of life. Look, I know you have work to
do, so... I'm no longer the whip. That's Jacqueline's job. I just agreed to meet
with you because we have a history. She would be tougher to say no to. But it
still would've been a "no." - Yes. - I admire your convictions, Donald. You're a
rare breed nowadays. It didn't sound that way when you were comparing us to
the tea party. I was being unfair. You're not a reactionary. You're a progressive. - I
see where this is going. - How do you mean? When you've been in the wasteland
as long as I have, you become immune to flattery. but I am capable of a genuine
compliment. Then I will take it as one, but it won't soften my resolve. If it did,
you wouldn't deserve the compliment in the first place. If you vote no, I won't
hold it against you. We are all in this together through the midterms. But, if you
stick with me, we can show both the Republicans and the American people that

we are capable of more than stagnation And that's worth something, even if it
hurts. Who can I count on?
The vote is delayed, sir. We're evacuating this side of the Capitol. - So no vote? Not until we get the all-clear. - Good things happen to good people. - Another
thing, sir. All cell phone service, WiFi, land lines, we'll be blocking them, in case
there's a legitimate security threat. - I need to be able to call my wife! - I
apologize, sir. - We can have someone notify her. - No, it needs to be me. She
gets very anxious if she doesn't recognize the voice. Congressman, I have strict
instructions not... Figure it out, unless you want me to get the White House
involved. I'll find a way, sir.
<i>- I'd rather wait.</i> - Who knows whether we'll win the vote? If we lose, I
don't want my face on national television. - This could be a silver lining. - <i> I
don't know, Francis.</i> - I'm sure you'll be terrific. - <i> Let me run it past
Connor.</i> OK. Thank you, we're done.
I thought I'd get used to it, but no. Hurts every time. You spend 30 years with
someone and then they don't have a damn clue who you are. Oh... I really
shouldn't. If we never did anything we shouldn't do, we'd never feel good about
doing the things we should. - Excellent point. - If these are our last moments on
Earth, I don't know about you, but I'd rather go out with a buzz on. To Marjory. You love her dearly. - More than anything. I can't imagine what I'd do without
Claire, or if she... ...didn't remember who I was. - Hopefully you'll never have to.
- It makes me angry that you do. - That anybody does. - No sense being angry
over what you can't change. How much funding does Alzheimer's research get?
Just under 500 million. Well, I'm no expert, but that sounds inadequate to me. It
is. For every $100 we allocate to research, - we spend nearly $30,000 on care. We oughta change that. I tried. My bill didn't even leave committee. - Who
opposed it? - Howard Webb. - I've never been fond of Howard. - That makes two
of us. - What was his argument? - He didn't feel he owed me one. "Fiscally
irresponsible," is all he said. Walk me through the specifics of your bill. - I see
what you're doing. - Doing what? - You're disgusting, Frank. - Excuse me. - Using
my wife. - Donald, what are you saying? You think I'll give in on entitlement if you
slap some extra Alzheimer's funding - Bullshit, Frank. - You think as little of me
as you want, but I do not barter with people's health. Then why are you trying to
raise the age of retirement? Medical research we can afford. Medicare we can't.
- There are realities, Donald. - Don't talk down to me about realities. My wife is
dying! That's a reality! Other people will die, too, if your package succeeds!
That's a reality! Goddamn it, I wish I wasn't stuck - in this fucking room with you!
- Donald. I'm done talking!
- Tell me why I purchased Cashew. - I don't know. Companionship? Yes. But
more importantly, a reminder that I am never more than one wrong move away
from life in a cage. You stay. I'm gonna walk you through every line of code I
intend to write, every attempt I make to breach the wall. If we get caught, you
don't get to plead ignorance. We go down together. I didn't sign up for Bonnie
and Clyde. You need me for this one thing. Just like I need you. But whatever
you've done before me... You know where I live, and you know who I am. Sit
down. The sooner we start, the sooner we finish.

And I remember not fully comprehending the meaning of death yet. And I asked
him how he died and he told me. And I remember feeling so sad, so angry. It
seemed so unfair. I started to cry, and my daddy picked me up and he wrapped
his arms around me and he said, "Don't be sad, sweetheart. He made the world
a better place, but sometimes that comes at a price." I guess that was the most
vivid memory.
Excuse us just a moment. - They're not taking me seriously. - Because
you're not Frank. - You mean because I'm not a man. - No, I mean Frank.
They're used to being offered something. Ask them what they want.
Paul needs help with the waste treatment facility. You're being just as
condescending as they are. Take some good advice when you get it. I
was right earlier, wasn't I? Paul, Remy tells me you need a waste
treatment plant. We've had some trouble getting matching federal
funds. Ben, you mentioned once a winery museum in your district. We
are making some great wines in Long Island these days. I've tried
some. It tastes like piss compared to what we have in Napa. The sort of
piss that belongs in Paul's waste treatment plant. - Jackie... - We have a
possible terror attack, and you're holding out your plates for more
pork? You should be ashamed of yourselves. In my caucus, people are
rewarded for good behavior, not trading their votes for ransom. When
we walk in there, I expect the both of you to vote yes without a
moment's hesitation. Thank you for your change of heart. Six more to
go.
Children. Was that a sacrifice? Because you haven't had any. Francis and I
wanted to devote our lives to public service. And we didn't feel that we could
both do that and be the parents we wanted to be. So we made the choice. We've heard that answer before. - Sorry? You have given the exact same answer
in previous interviews. Because it's the truth. Forgive me, but career and timing,
those are often very convenient answers. It is true that whatever it takes for
people to get from "maybe" to "yes" - never arrived for me. - Never felt the
pressure? No... maternal instinct? - No. - And it was a choice? It wasn't because
you couldn't have any? Francis and I did what was right for us. Because it is
unusual, I mean, even now, for politicians at the executive level not to have
children. <i>Yes, it is.</i> <i>In your husband's</i> <i>second congressional
campaign,</i> <i>there was a Republican,</i> <i>a pro-family candidate,</i>
<i>who made some pretty</i> <i>unsettling accusations.</i> <i>Well,
Francis</i> <i>is a Southern Democrat.</i> <i>We have thick skins.</i>
<i>He suggested, in order to keep your husband's political career on track...</i>
<i>Children are the center</i> <i>of many people's lives.</i> <i>And I think
they just want to make sure that their representatives will fight</i> <i>for their
children's dreams. And Francis has again and again proven that he will.</i>
<i>And he will continue</i> <i>to do so as vice president.</i> <i>He claimed
that...</i> Was there a pregnancy? Have you ever been pregnant? Break. Now. - That's not gonna happen. Yes. - During the campaign? Before. - Was it a miscarriage? - No. Did you... <i>Did you terminate the
pregnancy?</i> If I said yes, my husband's political career would be in jeopardy.
My faith would be questioned. Likely, my life would be threatened. But I won't
feel ashamed. Yes, I was pregnant. And, yes, I had an abortion - Can you excuse
me for one moment? Of course.

That took a lot of guts. Yes, it did. No. It'll look like I am ashamed. I'm not. And I
won't. Nothing you can say will make this any better. - I'd rather deal with... - I'm
not going to run from this. She's going to ask why you had the abortion. I haven't
had one. I've had three. Three? No, you need to stick to one. - OK. Fine. - Tell me
what you'll say. Well, I can't use the real reason. The first two, I was a teenager
and I was reckless. Well, the article that she showed, it's right. I was on the pill, it
didn't work. We talked about having the baby, - and then we decided against it. Why? - Because we were focused on the campaign. - How many weeks in? Sixteen. - You can't say any of this. Go upstairs. I'll deal with Ashleigh. If we're
going to continue, we've got about 20 seconds. - Connor, I... - Please trust me.
You'll be making a big mistake. Are you willing to discuss the circumstances... I
became pregnant as a result of a sexual assault. - Are you saying that you... you
were... - Raped. <i>You've never spoken publicly</i> <i>about this before.</i>
<i>No one ever asked.</i> <i>Can you tell us what happened?</i> <i>It was
college.</i> <i>A classmate.</i> We were dating and it happened on a... We
had a fight, and he forced himself on me. Did you tell anybody about it, I mean,
did he...? - Was he charged? - No. Because at the time I felt that I was somehow
at fault. I knew I wasn't. But I just didn't want to be stared at. I didn't want to be
known as the girl who got raped. And when I became pregnant, I wasn't gonna
drop out of school. I wasn't going to let this man ruin my life. So I made a choice.
I ended it. But if you never told anybody about it, the assailant could still be out
there. Can you tell us anything about him? I saw him for the first time in almost
30 years just a few months ago. And for the record, Francis has always known
about the assault he just didn't know the name. And he's been nothing but
supportive all these years.
- So are we free to go? - Yes, sir. - Nancy! Tell them I'm on my way down. - I
already did. - Mind if I use your phone? - Of course. And Donald, I'm gonna get
you that research funding, no matter how the vote goes. It's your call, because
I'm still voting against it. - I understand. - You have a brave wife, Frank. So do
you, Donald. - Frank! - How did you do? We're down four. How about Blythe? He won't budge. - What did you offer him? Alzheimer's research. He was insulted.
- The vote's in 45 minutes. - I need to get to Claire. - Who should I call from the
car? - We have exhausted our options. It's Blythe's people or it won't pass. They're too loyal to him. - Hey, go. I'll figure it out. - I can stay if you need me. No, get to your wife. I know where to find you. Nancy! I need every ream of
paper you have! And get me dollies!
I hate lying. - Did he do it? - Yes. - Then don't feel bad. - What if he denies it?
Then we'll cross that bridge. - Connor? - Give us one more minute. We have a
young woman on the phone, a private. She says she was also assaulted by the
general. Two years ago. She wants to share her story, but she won't give her
name. We can't put her on if she's anonymous. - You want me to convince her? She's frightened. Is she still on the phone? <i>I've never told anyone.</i> It took
me almost half my life before I could say anything. But you can say something
now. <i>I don't know.</i> Just think of how many others there must have been.
<i>But you want me to talk.</i> Well, would you have called if you didn't want
to? <i>I didn't think</i> <i>I'd have to use my name.</i> Listen, I understand
you're afraid of the consequence. <i>I'm a private. He's a general.</i> And my
husband is the vice president of the United States. We will protect you. I promise
you that. What's your name?

- What is this? The names of every person in America who will lose
home care when the freeze sets in. Who will lose half their welfare
benefits. Who will go on furlough. Who will lose their student loans,
transportation services, This is about the big picture, Jacqueline. This
picture looks pretty big to me. I can't vote for the package. Then don't.
Just get four of your people to do it. And then, work with me after we
avoid the freeze. I'm not Frank Underwood.
- Where's Carter? - You'll be reporting to me now. - And who are you? - Carter's
boss. You're doing good work, Gavin. But you can't be assaulting the target.
That could compromise us. I don't even know why you're going after this guy.
He's small-time. - That's not your concern. - He couldn't write a line of code to
save his life. He intends to commit an act of cyberterrorism. Maybe Carter
talked things out with you. I won't. - How much longer? - Until what? - Until I
can stop. - You prefer prison? I've given you eight child pornographers, three
botnet masters. But you still haven't given us AVunit. I told Carter I don't know
where he is. - Yes, you do. - I don't. Nobody does. Then what about your friends
in Dec Sec? I'm not giving you my friends. Then you can keep doing this. You're
a productive asset, Gavin. But the moment you stop being productive, no lawyer
can help you.
I wish we had the real thing right now. - Always prepared. - Francis. - I've
missed this. - So have I. Shouldn't you be on the phone getting your accolades?
They can wait till tomorrow. - What do you want to hear? - Anything.
Ch.5
- That's all, sir? - That's it. Short and sweet. Or at least just short. In Gaffney,
people called it the War of Northern Aggression. I personally take no pride in the
Confederacy. Avoid wars you can't win, and never raise your flag - for an asinine
cause like slavery. - He's on his way.
Big in the telecom industry. Estimated net worth is over 50 billion. - More than
Raymond's. - By a few billion, but who's counting? Do they have any other
business partnerships - other than the rare earth refinery? - Not that I could find.
All right. Get a progress update from Durant. Tell her I'll be in touch as soon as
we know what Feng wants. When a man like Raymond Tusk gets involved in state
diplomacy, you can be sure he's not after the Nobel Peace Prize. He's an
opportunist. But so am I. Maybe this is my opportunity to loosen his grip on the
president.
Forgive me, I... I don't understand. Do not back off in the WTO. But you've been
fighting us on currency manipulation for years. Free-floating currency is
inevitable. Now I have something I can work with. - Why the suddenn change of
heart? - Not sudden. But China could just do it. I mean, you know as well as I, you don't require WTO ruling. - Appearances, as you say. It's important that it
looks like America forced us out, not that we gave in. Well, I'll need a little more
time so that I can brief the president. I'm here for as long as necessary. However
you would like to communicate, I leave that to you. - Thank you, Mr. Vice
President. - Thank you, Mr. Feng. In Gaffney, we had our own brand of diplomacy:
When you giving us something real? We're here in beautiful Spotsylvania, aren't
we? This is dress-up for grown men with toy guns. Sounds like 500 words to me.

Tell Durant that China won't discuss the bridge unless we drop the WTO suit. I
thought you said they want to keep it? Feng does, which means Tusk does. But
we don't know if Beijing does. You think Feng's lying? An open currency could free
up interest rates, reduce inflation in China. They both profit. If they're forcing
Beijing's hand, or we are, - that could throw the summit into chaos. - Exactly.
Look, Feng may well have support, but my guess is that the Standing
Committee's divided. Either way, we'll throw them off balance. Let's leak we're
dropping the suit as soon as Cathy presents it. Just the lawsuit? Nothing else in
the leak? A hint of Feng, but no names. Let's let this grow on its own.

I give you something now, maybe you remember. - It's an investment in the
future. - I'm not big on favors. I said "maybe." - He's talking to Ayla Sayyad.
- How much did you fill him in? - The bare minimum. - I'd be a lot more
comfortable if it was you going directly, as we discussed. This puts distance on
me, which puts distance on you. I want you to meet with Feng tonight. No
proxies. - Understood. - Now where are we with Mr. Goodwin? Any day now.
Thirty-five to life. Cyberterrorism. The penalties are stiff. - This needs to be clean,
Doug. - It will be. One fall of the axe. - Keep me informed. - Yes, sir.
How do I know you work for her? That you're not just some right-wing fanatic
who wants to destroy... Because I wouldn't have done you the courtesy of paying
a visit. There would've been an army of satellite trucks at your door instead of
me. Well, I won't tell anyone, if that's what you're worried about. I believe you.
Did your husband keep records of any kind of who he assisted?
- You used to be an alcoholic, correct Not used to be. Still am. - A sober one. Do you miss it? - Five thousand dollars you just spilled. - I'll send you a check. Five thousand dollars you just spilled. - I'll send you a check. I like you, Mr.
Stamper, even if you're just an errand boy. I'll ask you again. What is your
message for the vice president?
Well, that will greatly upset the president. Do you want me to deliver Feng's
message? Absolutely not. We want the president angry. The tricky part is making
sure he doesn't direct it toward me. - So, what do you want me to do? - Get ahold
of Cathy's people. Do not mention the lawsuit at all. Have them bring up the
bridge instead. - Let's see if Feng is bluffing. - Yes, sir. We must learn from
Longstreet. He rode too high in the saddle. If a bullet comes my way tomorrow,
it will not be an accident, and I must be quick to duck.
- It's still not enough. Civilian jurisdiction is not gonna happen. We're all aware
that's what the congresswoman would prefer, but we won't allow our... - Am I
late? - It's my fault. The meeting got pushed up. I meant to e-mail you. I'm very
sorry. That's fine. Please, sit. We didn't know you'd be attending, Mrs. Walker. As I
was saying... ...putting sexual assault cases entirely in the hands of civilian courts
fundamentally erodes the military's ability to self-discipline. What about civilian
oversight instead of civilian courts? That's a slippery slope. There were those who
said the same of racial integration. Integration didn't change the core operational
nature... But it did prove that the military could shape its own evolution.
Absolutely. But in this case, civilian oversight is not the answer. My husband is a
civilian who oversees the military. Are you suggesting that civilians can offer no

guidance - in matters like this? - Forgive me, Mrs. Walker. Then maybe you should
listen to the civilian - sitting across from you. - Yes, ma'am. This is from your own
sexual assault prevention literature. And in it, it says in some cases it may be
advisable to submit than to resist. I think it's quite clear that there's still room for
improvement.
<i>And the Chinese know this. They're using it for leverage.</i> - Yeah, but for
what? - <i> That I'm not sure of.</i> Then why did we send you to Spotsylvania,
Frank? <i>You're supposed to have answers</i> <i>to these questions.</i>
<i>Mr. President, I spoke</i> <i>to Mr. Feng an hour ago.</i> <i>- What'd he
say?</i> - Here comes the bullet. <i>He claims that Frank hasn't been</i>I can
handle <i>delivering</i> <i>his messages properly.</i> I have conveyed his
requests word for word. <i>He says you've been</i> <i>doing the opposite.</i>
Who is responsible for the back-channeling here? <i>- Me or Raymond?</i> - You
are, Frank. I'm simply here to facilitate, not negotiate. <i>And yet you
continue</i> <i>to have private conversations</i> <i>- with Beijing's supposed
emissary.</i> - Listen, Frank... <i>Are you prepared to trust Mr. Feng's word over
mine, Raymond?</i> No one is doubting your word, Frank. <i>If Feng is truly
representing</i> <i>his government's interests,</i> why is he telling Raymond
one thing and telling me another? <i>How do you explain the</i> <i>bridge
falling through?</i> He personally profits from a free-floating currency. Just as
anyone would who's in business with him, such as yourself, Raymond. The
refinery and the bridge are two completely different issues. Let's keep our focus
here. I want the bridge back on the table. End of story. Catherine? <i>It'll be the
first item I bring up</i> <i>in the morning.</i> <i>Frank, stay put for</i>
<i>now. But don't contact Feng.</i> <i>And that goes for you too,</i>
<i>Raymond.</i> I don't want any more back-channeling until the bridge is
revived. We're done here. The first drops of blood have been spilt. Bullet grazed
my cheek, but I haven't fallen. Doug, find me a way to meet Feng.
- Just beyond those trees. - Thank you. I'll be good from here. We're fine. - I hope
you haven't waited long. - It's peaceful here. - I didn't mind. - Peaceful now.
Fifteen thousand men died in these woods. My grandfather's grandfather died
where we're standing. - My grandfather was killed in the revolution. - So I've
heard. Do you fear death, Mr. Vice President? No more or less than any man. It
motivates me, to experience everything. Accomplish all I can before it all
vanishes. I think you and I are similar in that regard. Then why are we working at
cross-purposes? What you mean is, why am I not submitting to you and Mr. Tusk?
You are sabotaging the negotiations. And you're using them for your own
personal ends. Wrong. It's taken me seven years to convince the Standing
Committee that this was the right course of action. A course of action that will
earn you and Tusk billions. Why did you want this meeting, just to attack me? To
send a message to Raymond. The president of the United States and I are not his
puppets. Now, you tell him that. Fine. The bridge deal is dead. There will be no
saving it. Stick a knife through its heart and put an apple in its mouth. I won't
shed a tear. - Your president will ascribe the failure to you. - I'll take the risk.
Think strategically, Mr. Vice President. You're setting us on a very
dangerous course. Do you know how Grant defeated Lee? He had more
men. That's all. And he was willing to let them die. It was butchery, not
strategy, which won the war. Mr. Tusk and I have great resources at our
disposal. Add up all your billions together and you get the GDP of

Slovakia. I have the federal government of the United States of

America. Your money doesn't intimidate me. The most that you can buy
is influence. But I wield constitutional authority. The strongest army
doesn't always win. Mao started out with only a few thousand men. They took
over half a continent. Mao is dead. - And so is his China. - But I'm not. Not yet.
Don't forget, your ancestor fought for the losing side. There is no sacred ground
for the conquered.
Did you or did you not meet with Feng last night? <i>- Where is this coming
from, Raymond? - - Answer the question.</i> I have not contacted him since you
and I spoke, Mr. President. - Just as you instructed me to do. - -<i> Not according
to Feng.</i> I believe you were also instructed to avoid him too, Raymond.
<i>He reached out to me.</i> <i>I just answered the call.</i> We had clear,
pre-arranged terms, Frank. Months of back-channeling. <i>I am on the
frontlines,</i> <i>Mr. President.</i> <i>And I can tell you firsthand</i> <i>that
we are dealing</i> with a regime that is not being forthright and will seize upon
the faintest whiff of trepidation. This is a test to see how far they can push us
before we break. Do not play their game. End the talks. <i>We can't overreact
here.</i> Well, they walked away from the Joint Commission. <i>We can walk
away</i> <i>from the summit.</i> The economic fallout would be catastrophic.
- The market will... <i>- Or we can just kowtow and submit</i> - to the new
reigning superpower. - -<i> Don't be hyperbolic.</i> Well, we are dealing
withone quarter of the world's population. Mr. President, you would be making a
disastrous mistake. Where are your allegiances, Raymond? To Xander Feng or to
the United... <i>- Don't you dare question me...</i> - All right. Silence. <i>There
were two</i> <i>mistakes. Both of them mine.</i> The first was allowing you,
Raymond, to enlist one of your business partners for these talks. - I was trying
to... <i>- The second</i> <i>was enlisting you, Frank.</i> <i>Instead of
clarity,</i> <i>we got miscommunication.</i> <i>That's poor diplomacy.</i>
Mr. President, listen... I have listened to both of you. And all I've heard is
accusations. Now, if neither one of you will take responsibility, I will. We're pulling
out. <i>And it's not because you suggested it, Frank, it's because you've
made</i> <i>such a mess of these</i> <i>negotiations I have no other</i>
<i>choice than a show of strength.</i> You both disappointed me... greatly. - Mr.
President? <i>- The president has left the call.</i> <i>Raymond, are you still
there?</i> That's the first time he's ever hung up on me... <i>- ...in 20
years.</i> - Oh, I feel for you. Goodbye, Frank. And the butchery begins.
Ch.6
You should speak to the president himself. Well, the president hasn't placed
much value on my advice lately. I'm in the same boat as you, Raymond. <i>Yeah,
difference being</i> <i>you've got an office</i> three doors down from the
Oval. Let's work together, for Christ sakes. I'm willing to put Spotsylvania behind
us if you are. - <i> I want nothing more.</i> - Then you'll talk to him? - Look, I'm
late for a meeting, Raymond. - <i> Yes or no, Frank?</i> - I can't guarantee he'll
listen. - That's not a yes. <i>But it's better than a no.</i> Any pugilist worth his
salt knows when someone's on the ropes, that's when you throw a combination to
the gut and a left hook to the jaw.
There's nothing to gain by locking horns with Tusk. Ask your client. It's Tusk
who's locking the horns. - He's not a man who likes conflict. - Neither am I. Then

make the ask. 'Cause I know you don't care about the subsidy. This is about
something biggerI'm a good Christian, Remy, like your mother. I would tell you
the truth if I wanted more. - You trying to send a message? - Perhaps. - Which is?
- That stubbornness is far more costly - than obedience. - Thanks for the water. You're on the wrong side, Remy. - Yeah, well, one of us sure is.
You remember when you threw out that first pitch in Greenville? I was wondering
how long it was gonna take to bring that up. That wasn't even on national
television. - Good luck. - Thank you. - You threw from the mound? - Well, I wanted
to throw a real pitch. The whole stadium burst a gut laughing. - Comic relief
pitcher. - Oh, that's very clever, Meechum. - Don't tell Claire. - I heard that.
More than pressure. Ban vertical integration entirely. We don't have that
regulatory power. We add an antitrust agreement to the emergency energy bill.
We break up the regional supply and distribution monopolies like the Bell
System.It'll be challenged immediately in the courts. We don't need it to pass,
we just need to threaten it. See if he falls into line. Is there a way to do that
without it making its way into the news? I don't want the world's wealthiest one
percent on my phone sheet. There is absolutely a way to do that, sir.
- Depends on how many you have. - You trying to get us drunk? Drunker you
are, bigger you tip. I don't have to be drunk to appreciate good service. - Thank
you. - You're shameless. So, Jackie... bold move, but it won't work. You know we
can pass this amendment in a heartbeat. Maybe, but no one will comply. It'll get
overturned. - Big fuss for nothing. - It might get overturned, - but it gets ink along
the way. - One thing about Raymond Tusk is he doesn't give two bird shits about
public opinion. - His stockholders do. - They'd jump in a pit of snakes and light
themselves on fire if he gave the word. All I'm asking is that you convey our
intentions. Why me? Frank could easily pick up the phone. You still call him Frank?
Not to his face, which I try to keep to a minimum. Don't you appreciate having an
ear in the White House? I would, if I had an ear. But lately all I've got is a mouth.
Yeah. He's not the best listener, is he? - Try working for him. - You were on his
staff? Eight years. Press secretary. Before you joined Congress. That explains a
lot. - Like what? - Like a lot. - I'll take that as an insult. - You should. That's it? You
abandoning me? No, I'm buying the next round. I can't accept gifts from lobbyists
without reciprocating. Plus, I'm a good wingman. This gets you more face time
with the barmaid.
What used to wake me up? Gunshots. Now you know what does it? People
fuckin'. Moanin' and screamin' like goddamn cats in the alley. You know what they
say, when you get hot and sweaty, it make you ripe and ready. - I drank too
much. - We both did. - Last night didn't happen. - I know. When I walk out that
door, it's business as usual. - No special treatment. - Don't worry. You won't need
a restraining order. I'm surprised you didn't go for the waitress. - You're much
sexier. - Yeah, OK. She works for tips. You run Congress. - Only half of it. - That's
half more than she does. So it's not my body. - Those legs don't hurt. - You're so
full of shit. OK. It's your voice. - My voice? - Mm-hm. It does something to me. Let
me know what Tusk has to say. Business hasn't started yet. You haven't walked
out that door yet. Watch me.
We raise the bet. We get FERC involved. - An investigation? - We don't need
Congress - to activate the regulatory commission. - But a price-fixing review? -

That would take months. - Again, it's the threat, - not the actuality. - He'll employ
the same logic. Draw it out, fight back with appeals. But he'll have to divulge his
accounting if FERC takes action. Now, no businessman wants to open up his
books, especially one with $43 billion. This is getting out of hand, Frank. We
shouldn't be duking it out with Raymond. - Maybe we should talk to him. - That's
exactly what he wants. To force himself back into the mix. What's to be gained by
shutting him out? The simple lesson that you cannot strong-arm the president of
the United States. We can't devolve to a pissing contest. I'm gonna call Raymond.
Invite him to Washington. He won't accept anything but total surrender. - I'm
making the call. - Don't put yourself in that position. I know how to maintain the
integrity of my office. - Thank you. - Thank you, Mr. President. Two minutes with
the president and Tusk may be back in his good graces. I need to disrupt the
nuptials and prevent a second marriage.
Look, I wanted to talk to you about Tricia. I'm sure you've noticed that she's still
sort of adjusting to her role. You mean her... confidence. I think it would be great
if you reached out to her Just let her know that you're there if there's anything
she needs. That's OK. Maybe just tell her that you enjoy working for the
president, and you're there to be of help to her in any way you can. You don't
think that's a little,I don't know, brash? - How? - For me to just approach her like
that? No. Not at all.
You need to make sure Goodwin takes the plea. If 35 with no parole doesn't scare
the piss out of him, - I don't know what will. - Then don't try to scare him.
Remove hope from the equation. I didn't anticipate Hammerschmidt. - Is Ms.
Skorsky cooperating with him? - He's called her My guy at the bureau says they
haven't actually spoken. At least not on the phone. - If this goes to court... - That
won't happen, sir. It will if he publishes. I'm bringing this to you because I can't
control Hammerschmidt. I don't know what to do. We need to invite a full-frontal
attack. Then hold the line. - You want to speak to him? - Face-to-face. Just the two
of us. - I don't think that's a good idea, sir. - You have a better idea? - No, sir. - We
can't avoid the battle, but we can choose the battlefield. Set up a
meeting at the White House. We'll intimidate him with formality. Yes, sir.
Mr. Vice President? I know you don't have patience for apologies, but
I'm sorry if I've let you down in any way. Let's concentrate on what's in
front of us. I'll let you know when I have a time set up. - As soon as possible. Yes, sir.
You know, I think I should talk to a lawyer. Right now you're not suspected of
being an accomplice. If you call a lawyer, we might have to reconsider. - He
mentioned some hacker. - Heronymous.We need you to come back to DC with us
and sign this statement in the presence of the US attorney. - You want me to call
him a liar. - Isn't he? I can't do that to him. Ms. Skorsky, we want to believe you.
And we will, if you put all of it in writing. He's not a criminal. You're going after
the wrong person. Ms. Skorsky, we want to believe you. And we will, if you put all
of it in writing. He's not a criminal. You're going after the wrong person. And if you
think that you can intimidate me, harass me like this in my own home, I will file a
formal complaint. You're starting to sound an awful lot like him. You can't arrest
me. I haven't done anything. I'd like you to leave. I have a right to legal counsel
and you haven't presented a warrant. We can arrest you, Ms. Skorsky, for
abetting an act of cyberterrorism. Who's going to take care of your mother while
you're spending the next three years in courtrooms?

Would you please raise your arms? - No, Meechum. - Sir. Meechum. I know you
don't want to shake my hand, so we'll just skip that part. The president didn't
mention anything about it. Why would he? Better to catch you off guard. - Then
why would you? - So we can avoid unnecessary conflict. Garrett's not a good liar.
The gift of a good liar is making people think you lack a talent for lying. I know
him far better than you, and so I know what talents he has and lacks. But let's
assume he did lie. I'm not intimidated by a FERC investigation. Why are you doing
this, Frank? Remy asked me the same thing. - You're making this about me. - This
isn't personal, Raymond. The integrity of our energy markets is my only
concern. Of course it's personal. I asked you, personally, to convince
Garrett to pull back from China. You personally chose not to. You
personally sabotaged the summit. - I have never once in my career... You personally advised... - ...allowed personal... - ...to push me up
against the wall. Do not try and spin me, Frank! I am too old to tango!
Then I'll be blunt. Accept the subsidies or deal with FERC. There is no third way
here. Are you intentionally trying to destroy the president? I'm trying to protect
the president... from you. This is about the secretary of state nomination, isn't it?
I'm the vice president now. I don't cry over what happened in kindergarten. You're
vice president because I vouched for you. Because you had no other options.
Political necessity. - You have 24 hours to decide. - I'll show myself out.
I should inform you, sir, that I may need to take two of my plants offline
tomorrow, - <i> for unscheduled maintenance.</i> - Why? Which ones?
<i>Georgia and Tennessee.</i> <i>This blackout has put</i> <i>a great deal of
stress on them.</i> My engineers are concerned about the seals on the fuel rods.
So we're looking at outages on the Southeast grid, too? - <i> Could be, for a few
days.</i> - That's unacceptable. Safety comes first. We don't want an accident. Let's get a full report to Linda ASAP. - <i> Yes, sir.</i> Thank you, sir. - He's
toying with you. - This could be a legitimate safety issue. He wants a seat back at
the table. Those plants are fine. Why is he doing this? We've had our differences,
but something drastic like this? Well, I did tell him about the possible FERC action.
- You did what? - He called me, I answered the call. Why didn't you inform me
immediately? He told me you had a productive talk, that he was on board with
the subsidy. I assumed everything was fine. He was proposing renewed trade
talks. We didn't talk about subsidy at all. He's playing both of us then. If he
told you he was on board, why'd you bring up FERC? I told him I was
relieved, that we could've taken action if he didn't comply. You think
he's fishing, to see what our next move might be? I think so, sir. I mean,
he is lying about those two plants in the South. But we can't guess. We
have to be certain. Do you want Raymond Tusk to assess that risk, or
the United States government? Are you suggesting we take over his
facilities? There is precedent there. Woodrow Wilson did it with the
railroads for three full years. In a time of war. In a time of emergency,
which is what this is. The country needs a leader, Mr. President. Give
them one. Do not bend to Raymond Tusk.
- I'll take an iced tea if you have any. - We don't. I wish I didn't have to keep
coming through back doors like this. Well, we wouldn't want our friends in the
fourth estate to know you were here, would we? Especially since you've gone to
such lengths to remain above the fray of politics. You can't seize the plants,
Frank. We haven't seized anything yet. We're ready to, but we won't... if you

cooperate. - It's illegal. - It's not. You know that. The president can issue an
executive order in times of emergency. - I'll fight it in court. - Which will take even
longer than a FERC investigation would. And in the meantime, you make nothing
from those plants. We agreed, right here in this room, we agreed to work
together. We agreed as men of our word. And I held up my end of that bargain
until you abandoned me... After I got it passed through the Senate, with
no help from you. I had to protect my relationship with the president.
And then you tried to use me during the summit in Spotsylvania. I was
not put on this earth to be your best friend, or to share every piece of
information I have with you. We agreed to a mutually beneficial
partnership, that's all. Yes, and what's become very clear to me is that I
benefit in no way from this partnership. Let's not pretend to be naive.
We both respect self-interest above all else. Our versions of that no
longer align. You are on the verge of making an irreversible mistake, Mr.
Vice President. I may well be making a mistake. Who knows? What I do
know is that you'll be calling Linda and telling her that you'll accept the
subsidies. You may have all the money, Raymond, but I have all the men
with guns. It's a burner. Pre-dialed. She's expecting. Oh, and uh, yes...
from last night. The ball's in your court, as they say.
If he's gone, then nobody's looking for me, right? Not that we know of. Until we
know, nothing changes. So what, you just came over here to get my hopes up? I
came here to make sure that you don't go to church tonight. - Is that what this is
all about? - No. - You've done it before. - That was different. Stop it. If there's one
thing I know, it's when a man wants me. I learned who Rachel was in church. She
was young and beautiful. ...she became his wife after he worked seven years to
earn her hand in marriage. Rachel had one son, Joseph. He became a king. Are
you hungry?
Ch.7
- You asked me to negotiate... - I know what I've done. - And I know where it's
gotten us. - Sir, the attack ads are not - a result of anything... - You're scrambling
from fire to fire - instead of preventing them. - I'm not the FEC, I can't wave a
wand... Give me more than excuses, Frank! You're better than that! - Or maybe
you're not. - If you need a punching bag, I will stand here and take the punches,
as I have done time and time again, since I swore my oath. But I would much
rather get back to work, as you've asked me to do. You are out of line, Frank.
Dismiss me or keep swinging, Mr. President. You're dismissed. Thank you, sir
Mr president, this one doesnt have a loud mouth like me. Frank <i>You should've
seen their faces.</i> <i>They didn't know what to think.</i> Especially when I
made them hold the bag. - You tried it out? - I sure as hell did. - I'm sorry I lashed
out at you, Frank. - No. I was disrespectful, - and that was uncalled for. - My
temper's gotten away from me these days. I need to be jolted back into reality
sometimes. - It was a... a kind gesture. - Just some good ol' fun. Tricia tells me
we're having dinner, later this week. Yes, Claire tells me the same. Well, it'll be
good to get out of this place for a few hours. It's been here since Kennedy. It was
painted the same year he was born. It depicts, I think, a World War I parade. Well,
I should know every painting. Well, you seem to know quite a lot, at least about
this one. I try to soak it all in while I can. All the history. Presidents who
obsess over history obsess about their place in it, - instead of forging it.

- Who said that? I did... just now. The White House. All day long it's
buzzing, and at this hour it's so... desolate. The presidency is a great
and precious thing. Loneliness is the price. Let's assume... ...in one of these
chairs, staring at this wall, is where Truman decided to drop the bomb, Nothing.
You? No, nothing.
You like these, or you want the ones I'm wearing now? - How long you been
working in the casino? - Too long. - Bet you've seen a lot. - Oh, yeah. I've seen
everything. I should get going, got an early meeting. - OK. You want me to stay I
wasn't planning on sleeping here. So... another one-night stand, then. - Is that
OK? - Not really my thing. - Come on, you must play the field. - No, I don't. - But
you are such a flirt. - I flirt, yes. But I only sleep with someone if I'm into them.
And I prefer to stick around. Remy Danton, serial monogamist. Is this a joke? I'm
sorry. I didn't.. Sorry. This doesn't happen again unless it's leading somewhere.
I'm upfront about what I want. In all things, not just politics.
The Republicans appear to be doing a fine job of that without my help. Well, it's
not gonna work, Raymond. It'll bind the Democrats together, - not pull us apart. What has bound them together the past decade has been the means to achieve a
majority. <i>- If I had to guess...</i> - He stacked Congress. The majority I
whipped. So it's been you, Raymond, all along, <i>even when Lanagin's
money</i> <i>was coming to us.</i> You keep making assumptions that I have
denied. Once the quarterly filings come out, anybody with a laptop - is gonna see
what's going on. - The end of September. <i>That's a long way off.</i> <i>But I
look forward to seeing the reports.</i> Should make for some very interesting
reading two weeks before the midterms. You cannot bully your way back to the
table, Raymond, just as you cannot buy the keys to Congress. Best of luck
keeping your majority in the House. I know how much it means to you. When the
money's coming your way, you don't ask any questions. But now it's clear.
Lanagin's never been anything but a front. Do I tell the president? No. He'll
wonder why I didn't know, which makes me look uninformed. Or he'll blame the
messenger for involving him, which makes me look careless. I know it's a trap. I
must keep this to myself.
Her husband was dead. He kept no records. And yet, there it was in black in
white. I respect the fact that you brought it to us, that's what got you in the door.
But if you wanna stay, I need more. What exactly are you up to? I was hired by
Remy Danton. He wants anything damaging that I can find. - Does he have a
copy of the journal? - No copies. I gave the original to Mrs. Underwood, and I told
him that her story checks out. - Did you give him anything else? - I don't have
anything else. I wouldn't give it to him if I did. Why am I only hearing about this
now? Well, you're the vice president of the United States. Remy works for
Raymond Tusk. That puts me between two extremely powerful people. - I had to
be careful. - I'm sure that Remy's offering - you a great deal of money. - But that's
all he offers. When I saw you push entitlement reform through the Senate, it was
clear to me where the real power in the White House is. I want to work for a man
like you, not sail a yacht. Money doesn't interest me. Do you want me to cease
contact with Remy? No. I want you to find the blind spots.
Oh, now she is gonna make me run another five miles to work off this puppy. Are
you crazy? I can barely keep up with you. - You're so much faster than me. - You
two run together? Yes. It's hard to find the time, but somehow we find it. We do.

And it's something that's just ours, you know? Yes. Just ours. And about eight
Secret Service Agents'. That's so nice that you have that together. I wish Garrett
and I had more time for things like that - Should've seen Garrett hunched over... Please. - I saw the punching bag you gave him. - You know what? - I will have a
slice of pie. - Pie, please, for the president.
Have you had a chance to think about what we discussed yesterday? In China,
it's polite to refuse a gift the first time. Maybe I should refuse yours. We can't
offer you a gift if I don't know what you want. The Port Jefferson Bridge. You
pulled it, during the back-channel. - I changed my mind. - Why? I have allies who
want the bridge. Without it, they become my enemies. - I've been put on trial
twice. - Corruption charges. Everyone in China who works on this level pays who
they need to pay. And they kill who they need to kill. People disappear all the
time, Mr. Stamper. I could disappear. You could disappear. Stop the junkets and
we'll get you the bridge. The bridge comes first. The vice president has lied to me
before. I need proof of his commitment. Then the money will stop. Please, Mr.
Stamper... eat. You have a long flight ahead of you.
I'm sure you've told Raymond that I asked you here. - Raymond who? - Oh, you
don't have to pretend, Dan. - Feng confirmed what you're up to. - Name doesn't
ring a bell. I have flight records. One of his planes to Kansas City on multiple
occasions. Do we really have to play this game? I came here because I thought
you might have something to offer. Why don't we just skip to that part? You've
been a loyal contributor, Dan. You've thrown us fund-raisers, there are pictures of
you and I shaking hands. So whatever you've done this quarter can be forgotten.
But I need the money to stop flowing in the wrong direction. - I'm still waiting for
the offer. - You're a businessman, Dan, - I know your primary concern is profits. That's right. But I'm offering you something that's far more valuable than money:
- a direct line to the White House. - That sounds vague to me. I have influence
over the BIA, over federal gambling legislation. The sort of influence that my
contributions have already bought. Not with my direct involvement and
the president's ear. You know what I like about money? I can stack it on
a table, like this one. I can measure it with a yardstick. I can see it,
smell it, buy things with it. Houses, cars, clothes. Things that are real.
You're gonna have to show up with more than beads. Dan, I invited you
to my home because I thought... Through the back door, like a servant.
The Secret Service makes everyone come in that way. It's a
precautionary measure... Unless you can offer more money than Tusk,
and I don't think that you can, there's little left for us to talk about. I am
offering you an alliance with a man who goes to work everyday at 1600
Pennsylvania Avenue! I don't place my faith in any white man. Especially
one that works for the federal government. I am just like you, Dan. I
know what it means to start from nothing, to have to fight... You know
nothing about what it means to be me. Your version of nothing was
light-years ahead of where I started. I respect you, Dan. I take you
seriously... I'll let you know when I give a fuck about your respect. Holliday! Show
Lanagin out. I know where the back door is. Why didn't you reach out, before you
got on a plane? I was afraid our communication might be monitored.
Ch. 8

Why does everything have to be a struggle? - Can't some people just say "yes"
for once? - Sir. I need the president's schedule for the next two days. - She
change her mind? - What do you think? - So what's our next move? - I'll focus on
the bridge, you talk to the Indian affairs. The sooner that Whitehall's tribe gets
recognized, the sooner they can break ground on that casino.
Shouldn't keep your interns so late. You and I might not have lives but they do.
When there's work to be done, we work. They know that. - Why am I here at ten
at night? - Where's the GOP getting their money? - That's a $25 million question
isn't it? - You must have an idea. - What makes you think that? - Because you
know things. That's why Glendon Hill made you partner. Most of our clients are
Democrats, I'm just as much in the dark as you are. I'm losing in my district,
Remy. I wish I could help you. Even if I pull off a win, it doesn't matter. The GOP
takes the house, I lose my spot in the leadership, this office, everything I've
worked for. I feel for you. But you want information I don't have. Are you upset
about the last time we saw each other? Not at all. I made myself clear. Can we
talk? No work, no politics. We can talk about whatever you want. I've never...
been with anyone for more than six months. Since I've been in Congress, I just
haven't had time. I wasn't asking to marry you. Just to be more than company for
a night. Do you still want that? I'm here, aren't I? There would have to be clear
boundaries. Whatever we have privately couldn't affect our professional
relationship. Then we shouldn't be having this conversation in your office. I'm
glad we had this meeting. If you'd like to have another, just call me. We can leave
the secretaries out of it.
Have you reconsidered? It's not the right time, Frank. We'll find some other
project to showcase our program once tensions subside. During the campaign,
you repeatedly promised to address critical infrastructure. We're well
into your second year. This project is ready to go, you don't want to
have to start from square one. I'm thinking midterms. We have to
project consistency. Except people don't vote for consistency, they vote
for concrete progress. Linda mentioned that you seemed obsessed with
this bridge. I'm beginning to think she was right. The backstabbing,
vomit-inducing bitch. Is she right, Frank? Tell me why this bridge is so
important to you. - I wanted to insulate you from this... - From what?
You asked me to back channel with the Chinese and I have continued to
do so. No, I told you to stop back channeling and you did anyway? Without informing me, Frank... - I needed to distance you. There are
issues that a president cannot be aware of. - What issues... - But, what I
can tell you... ...is that the building of this bridge directly affects our
ability to combat the Republicans in the midterms. - Have the Chinese...
- Mr. President, you are asking questions you do not want the answers
to. All right, how much danger are we in, Frank? None if we end this
conversation right now. Sometimes I feel like I'm losing control over my
goddamn administration. You're under pressure, sir, but you're not
losing control. You have people who are looking out for you: me, Linda,
your wife. I might be losing control of her too. I shouldn't have said that... Of
course she wants the best for me. Has Claire said anything? I know they talk. Not
much... just that things have been a little rocky. Well, that's an understatement.
You have the most difficult job on earth. It would take a toll on any marriage.
Which is why I'm urging you to reconsider your decision on the bridge. And I'd say

that not as your vice president... but as your friend. Because I care about you. All
right, I'll... I'll have another look at it. Thank you, Mr... Thank you, Garrett.
I got two more minutes. It's 12:30, he was schedule for 12:15. I'll go. You were
supposed to tell me to stay. But it's nice to know I'm worth at least two minutes.
Raymond Tusk. Your boss went to see him last October. It's in his congressional
travel report. - Before my time. - You said they didn't communicate. - I said, "not
to my knowledge." - We're in Missouri. - He's not one of the donors. - I can quote
you on that? If you spell my name right Now, normally, I don't quote Northern
writers, but every now and then one of them says something that makes a lot of
sense, and this Emerson fellow you probably heard of, once wrote that the only
way to have a friend is to be one. I think you all know what kind of a friend Terry
has been to this district. So I am proud to introduce him today and to call him my
friend. Would you please welcome, the majority leader, Representative Terry
Womack.
Thank you. What's going on? - Potential blind spot. - Tell me on the way to the
car. - What a pleasant surprise, Raymond. - Mr. Vice President. I was expecting to
see you privately today, Daniel. When it's a serious matter I invite all the chiefs to
the circle. Nice pool. I've never swum in it. The chlorine hurts my eyes. You're
welcome to take a dip in it if you'd like. Another time. Raymond tells me you're a
ribs man. I've got three of the choicest pieces of meat you'll ever see in your life
coming out. You do not want to pass on this. I won't be here long. So the Ugaya
band. Tip of the iceberg. - They're not a real tribe. - They're about to be.
No, they're a bunch of troublemakers with too much hope on their
hands. Once they get recognized, they're gonna have their own casino.
In two years... at best? You better enjoy this pool while you can. I don't
think your casino can stand that sort of competition. Who do you think
Whitehall called as soon as he left the BIA? You offer them a casino two
years from now, we offered what they really want. Reenrollment in my
tribe. A tip of your iceberg is melting, Frank. And you do not have time
on your side so how about this...? You help me repair my relationship
with Garrett, Dan and I here get the money flowing back in the right
direction. How about this...? I get the BIA to investigate both of you.
Connection to Feng, laundering... You could, but you won't. You don't
dare. My money has been going to the Democrats for nine years. You
were the whip for all of them. You implicate us, you implicate yourself.
And everyone in the leadership. - Ah, here comes the steak. - Oh... Now
you are going to enjoy this, Frank. There you go. Thank you. Now dig in,
Frank. Before the flies get to it. - I'll pass, thanks. - Are you sure? This is
soy-fed Matsusaka beef. You know, my ancestors would've prayed to
this heifer to honor her spirit. But at 200 bucks a pound, I figure... fuck
tradition. Mr. Vice President. Not my vice president. You're on
sovereign land. Dogs are so predictable, aren't they?
Set up a meeting with Walker. Tonight, if possible. I should be back by six. - <i>
Lanagin didn't budge?</i> - He reenrolled the Ugaya. <i>- We have to get the
bridge approved now.</i> <i>- </i> I'll call Linda. <i>Bypass her, I don't</i>
<i>want her in the meeting.</i> - I'm on it. - Thanks. Meechum, get in touch
with the plane have them make ribs for the flight back. Mr. Vice President, do you
have a moment? I'm sorry, the president asked to see me. No he didn't, you

requested the meeting and I took it off the schedule. - You did what? Let's go in your office. You lied, Frank. You said you would let the bridge
go and then you went behind my back just like you're trying to do now. I do not require your permission! - No, but you should involve me. The
president and the vice president have issues they must discuss
privately. When you are secretive it prevents me from being able to do
my job. And when you cancel meetings it prevents me from being able
to do mine. Which is why I wanted to talk so we can work things out. - I
will not waste my time... - We should be working together... ...inflating
your sense of self-importance! - Excuse me? - How many elections have
you won?! How many congressional committees have you chaired?!
Would you even be working in the White House if I hadn't recommended
you during the campaign? I returned that favor and then some. Look
where your desk is now! And I'd say we're even. And if you want to
maintain my respect, you're going about it all wrong. I asked you in here
to work out a situation... You didn't ask, you demanded! I will not be left
out of the loop, I'm the president's chief of staff. You call this being
chief of staff? Micromanaging his date book? I'd say that's more of a
glorified scheduler. The White House would fall off its rails without me
doing my job. Are you certain about that? - Yes, I am. I look out for the
president 24/7. I keep him informed. I keep his priorities straight. We
did just fine before you became vice president, Frank. All right, let's go
over to the Oval Office right now and ask the president to choose: his
chief of staff or his vice president. I know what the answer would be.
You wanna go? I didn't think so. Now I will see the president tomorrow
morning, schedule or no. And please, turn out the lights before you
leave.
Any leads? I've been going over his state senate days, it's a slow process. I have
to be thorough. So how is it that I've found more in two days than you have in
two months? - What do you mean? - I've had to do your job for you. You found
something? I'm the one who's supposed to ask that question. What'd you find?
Maybe I can help. Are you working for Frank? - Yeah, as his communications
director. - No, are you working for him? Come on. He couldn't pay me a fraction of
what you're offering. - Don't lie to me. - Look, if you've lost confidence in my
ability... You made the wrong choice, Seth. I don't think so. You're nothing. You're
a parasite. So are you Danton. ust in a nicer suit.
- Do you think it could be... - No. If it's anything I'm sure it's innocuous. Nothing
we can't weather. But my bet is they're bluffing. Just to make us paranoid. But
he's a dangerous man, isn't he? Raymond? When we need to be.
Have you ever loved anyone? No. I've never expected much from the world. It's
ugly. It's not a fair place. I'm happy to have what I have. I'm glad I have this. I've
thought it all out. And there's a way to do it so we don't risk any exposure. Do we
have to talk about this now? I'm beat. My brain is f... Yes, we do. Because it's our
marriage. If we're going to survive the next two years... or six. We need to do
something. We should be each others' support system. Not cause each other
stress. The foundation of this White House is not brick and mortar. It's us, Garrett.
And I want it to be important to you

. I have to trust that whatever you're managing, to whatever extent you choose
not to inform me, that I'm neither at risk, nor passively condoning something
blatantly illegal. Any risk solely falls on me, and you can't be accused of
condoning what you're not aware of. Not in this case. I'm steering the ship away
from the rocks, not toward them. Then I'll call the committee for foreign
investments. 00:36:04,609 --> 00:36:06,736 You're making the right
decision, sir. I have another difficult decision to make. Linda submitted
her resignation. I was furious with her. That was a very manipulative
move. I can speculate as to why she made it. Are her complaints valid? I
have a very biased view on that subject. Well, I've heard hers. Give me
yours. Linda and I don't always agree. But she's been very loyal to you,
and a more than competent chief of staff. So you think I should keep
her? Do I think she oversteps sometimes? Yes. Does she wrongly equate
her advice with mine? Often. But... the question that occurs to me is not
about Linda. Let's say you refuse her resignation, if this gets out, and it
could, won't you be sending a signal to anybody who works for you
that... ...you can be leveraged. She offered her resignation. She's
already gone even if she stays.
You can do this, Megan. I'll be there. I get panic attacks sometimes. - You're
afraid you'll get one? - Yeah. OK, why don't we ask for a couple more minutes,
that's not a problem. It's not about that, they just come. I can't control them. OK,
Megan, there's some of the most senior congressmen and women in the room,
and they press, they've shown up just to hear from you. - I know. - OK, I don't
want to pressure you, but a lot of planning has gone into this. Please don't make
me do this. We're not making you do anything. Then can I just go back home?
Back to Chicago? Listen, you have nerves, that's understandable. I don't wanna
fucking do it, OK? I understand, it's OK. But if you back out now, Megan... - This
isn't about me at all, is it? - ...this is not good for us. It hurts us, it makes us look
unorganized. This is about your fucking moment to shine. You don't care if do... I
do care. I do care. It is about me and about you! And for whatever reason, we
both decided to share what happened to us. And it mattered and people listened
so let's go in and finish what we started.
- Do you have a moment? Absolutely. The president accepted my resignation an
hour ago Yes, I know. I almost told him that I changed my mind, but I realized it
wouldn't make any difference. For whatever it's worth, I did bring up your loyalty
and how good you are at your job. Not that he needed me to remind him. And I
will always be grateful you recommended me. It has been quite a ride. Shorter
than I would've hoped, but I have a long career ahead. - No doubt. - And just so
you know, I don't plan on making any fuss in the press. You'll hear nothing but my
praises if I'm asked. the president told me about a dinner he had at your house.
He went on and on about your Civil War models. How much fun he had painting
the toy soldiers with you. This was given to me by the director of the
Smithsonian. It's the first Medal of Honor awarded to a Hispanic-American: Linda,
I don't know what to say. It's clear the president sees you as a friend, I've never
been that to him, but his job is bigger than friendship. I just hope you'll look out
for him the way I've tried to do. I will. And I'll treasure this. Goodbye, Mr. Vice
President. I've never thought higher of her than I do at this moment.
She lost... but she played to win.
Ch.9

This hurts us both. But it's not my wound to suture. Claire must be the surgeon.
Only she can stop the bleeding.
I'm gonna go throw the hounds a bone. - I know it's demeaning... - Not another
word. I should've been more careful. We'll put this behind us, just like we've
always done. - Part of me wishes... - What? That you'd be more upset. Tusk came
after you because of me. Wasted energy, isn't it? For both of us. Shall we
rehearse
Because it would've seemed too clean otherwise, like we were-- <i>You made
me</i> <i>look like an idiot.</i> If we had the same story, the media would
assume we were coordinating. - It needed to look messier. <i>- This was
supposed to go away, Claire.</i> I've got twice as much press outside the
building now. <i>- Adam...</i> - I've gotta keep the lights off 'cause they're on
the roof across the street trying to film us inside. You just need to confirm that
you took the photo for us. Confirm our version. Say you lied because you were
scared. I don't know why you didn't just tell me this is what you were intending to
do. <i>Because I know you, and you would've refused. You have too much
pride.</i> - I don't want to speak to the press again. <i>- Listen.</i> <i>If you
say nothing, they're not going</i> <i>to leave you alone.</i> <i>They will just
camp out</i> <i>for weeks on end--</i> I'm sorry I lied. <i>I wasn't trying to
be</i> <i>manipulative--</i> - I have to go. - Adam? Adam? I think he'll do the
right thing. I don't know. I hope so.
- I can go grab you one. - No. I feel like stretching my legs. - Doug, Diet Coke? I'm fine, thank you, sir - Seth, a beer? - I have to drive, but thanks. I'll be right
back. - Watch yourself. - What do you mean? Connor was an easy target,
but I'm not going anywhere. Look, Doug, I'm grateful just to be here.
You think I've survived with the vice president so long by being blind?
Upward mobility has a ceiling with the Underwoods. - I'm the ceiling. Understood. - What else have you got on them? - Nothing. You fork over
the journal without a backup plan for a rainy day? I don't think so. I had
one hand and I played it. I don't press my luck. - You can't expect me to
believe you. - I don't. I wouldn't if I were you. But I'm telling the truth. A
little sibling rivalry isn't such a bad thing, especially between adopted
boys. They either push each other to be the best versions of
themselves, or one of them gets booted back to the orphanage. You're in
my house. You drink if I drink. One Diet Coke for you, and one beer for you.
- Why are you doing this? - Not me. The man I work for. - And who is that? - That
doesn't concern you. This is my life you're fucking with. You and I are just pawns,
Mr. Galloway. - You should leave. - We need more.. ...to prove the affair happened.
Another photograph. Thirty seconds, you better be out the door. I'm not going
anywhere. You recognize the country code? And the city code is Bogot. Is it still
ringing?
- Or if you're Jewish. - That too. My wife got this for me when she visited there
before the revolution . - It's beautiful. - Sixteenth century. It, um, broke when it
was being shipped, into a thousand pieces. It took specialists over a year to
restore it. - Here, I want you to have it. - I can't accept gifts. No, no. Not as a gift.
No. As a reminder of how hard it can be to put something back together again
once it's been crushed. If you're going to threaten me, you don't have to go to

the trouble of veiling it. I don't usually do interviews with reporters. They're
parasites. Usually interested in just finding a way to knock me down a peg.
Invariably, what they write is inaccurate. And when that happens, I have no
choice but to retaliate. America can be just as dangerous as Iran, Ms. Sayyad.
Thank you for your time, Mr. Tusk. Travel safe back to Washington. <i>- Remy's
on line two.</i> - Remy. Let's not hold back on the other thing. Hit 'em again, and
hit 'em now.
No. I want you to organize a press avail tomorrow morning. Have Freddy brought
over here. Bring him through the back. Yes, sir. I won't leave one of my own
bleeding on the field.
<i>So you're suggesting that</i> <i>Mr. Galloway's photo is a fake?</i> <i>I
don't know anything about professional photography, I'm just a flack.</i> <i>But
if we can create a fake</i> <i>in less than 24 hours,</i> <i>I think an expert
photographer</i> <i>like Adam Galloway--</i> <i>Those are serious
allegations, especially given that Mr. Galloway vehemently denies it.</i> <i>I'm
not surprised</i> <i>he's denying.</i> <i>Ultimately, though, it's gonna be</i>
<i>your word against his.</i> <i>Not my word.</i> <i>The vice president</i>
<i>of the United States'.</i> <i>It's his word versus that</i> <i>of a potentially
troubled man.</i> <i>- Troubled?</i> <i>- Potentially.</i> <i>Or maybe he has
a motive.</i> <i>What motive</i> <i>could Mr. Galloway</i> <i>possibly
have</i> <i>for a fake photo?</i> <i>- What would he get out of it?</i> <i>- I
don't know.</i> <i>My job is to separate fact from fiction, just like yours is,
Candy.</i> <i>But maybe fact and fiction don't matter as much to the artistic
sensibility.</i> <i>Maybe the lines</i> <i>are blurred for him.</i> <i>This is
not a man who</i> <i>stages fictitious scenarios.</i> <i>Like I said, the art
stuff, it's over my head. And you may be right.</i> <i>But I would hate</i>
<i>to think that Mr. Galloway</i> <i>was doing this</i> <i>just for
publicity.</i> <i>You think it's</i> <i>a publicity stunt.</i>
Freddy is dangerous because you care too much. - When we care too much, it
blinds us. - What Tusk did is cheap. And you're letting it get to you, which is
exactly what he wants. - If I ignore this, if I do nothing-- - It's not nothing. Staying
focused requires strength. - How's your son? - They set the bail at 60 grand. Jesus. - How's your wife doing? Oh, Claire's got a suit of armor three inches thick.
We'll get through all this garbage. - Somebody's tryin' to take you out? - Appears
that way. Whoever it is, they done stepped on the wrong motherfuckin'
rattlesnake. That's why I'm here, Freddy. I have to distance myself from you. I
need to make sure you're not going to play up what good friends we've been.
That you've been to my office, that you've cooked dinner at my home, or that the
president was there. We can't drag him into anything. And I won't be coming in
for ribs anymore. With all that's going on, we can't add fuel to the fire. You
couldn't if you wanted to. I'm selling it. - Selling the Joint? - That's right. - What
are you talking about? - The franchise thing, with the sauce. My business
partner's pullin' out. Say them white folks down in Silver Spring don't wanna go to
no place run by thugs. - Why do you have to sell yours? - Darnell's bail. - You can't
sell Freddy's. - He's already drawin' up the papers. - Let me help you with the
money. - Nah, Frank. We'll make it a loan. You can pay me back. - Not gonna
happen. - Don't be prideful. - Frank. - Please, let me help. I ain't takin' your guilt
money. When I was bangin', we used to clear 60 Gs a month. I seen guys shot
down execution-style. I didn't give a shit. Then I got caught. Darnell was born my

first year in. Never saw him once, not even a picture. I can't take back the bad I
done. All I can do is to make my own way, like I been doin'. You understand. Ain't
pride, Frank. If you change your mind, you let me know. You was a good
customer, that's it. You ain't gotta pretend to be my friend. - You take care of
yourself, Freddy. - You too, Frank. Do you think I'm a hypocrite? Well,
you should. I wouldn't disagree with you. The road to power is paved
with hypocrisy... ...and casualties. Never regret.
Do you know who Remy Danton is? Inez's father is a human rights activist in
Bogot. The government has charged him with treason for working with the
rebels. - You should have come to us. - Well, I said I would. - Danton said you
couldn't do anything. - He's wrong. - I wasn't gonna take any chances. - Has he
done what - the government's claiming? - No. They're made-up charges. He's a
journalist documenting atrocities in the Darien Gap. - I can get the charges
dropped. - Why should I trust you? Because the secretary of state is a good friend
of mine. And this isn't a game, Mr. Galloway. Then why are you toying with us?
We are trying to help. That's a fucking joke, Claire. Do not talk to my wife
that way. Oh, your wife? What does that even mean to you? Do not
mistake any history you have shared for the slightest understanding of
what our marriage is, or how insignificant you are in comparison. - Can
you give us a few minutes? - I'm gonna go call Cathy. Forget my career
and my reputation. I want to marry this woman, Claire. We're going to
make this disappear. Because of you, I will always be the man who
placed her father in danger. - I can never erase that. - I'm sorry it's come
to this. I'm sorry I ever met you. All you've ever done is cause me pain
Now you're fucking with my life and the life of the woman that I love
more than I ever loved you. You'll be driven back to New York tonight. In
the morning, you'll make a statement saying this was a publicity stunt,
and that the value of your work had been stagnating and you wanted to
revive-- - No, Claire. I won't do that. - Yes, you will. - How about I tell the
press-- - Adam, shut up! That you wanted the attention, then you got
cold feet, denied it, then you changed your mind again. And that you
faked the shower photo and you're coming clean. - Is that clear? - I'm
not part of this world. I didn't sign up for it. I have no interest in it.
We're giving you an out, Adam. And if you choose not to take it, I will
bury you. I've never hated anyone before. Now I know what that feels
like. It's a terrible feeling, isn't it?
- Work on Moreno, then. - We'll start leaving footprints. <i>- Quiet.</i> - Excuse
me? - Oh. Not you, my birds. <i>- I think we need to be prepared</i> <i>for the
possibility that we can't follow</i> <i>through with our threat.</i> I am hearing
excuses, not solutions. My hands are tied. I can't circumvent the entire US State
Department. <i>You know,</i> <i>I hired you to destroy Frank.</i> - You're
failing. <i>- Look, Raymond,</i> <i>I'm your lobbyist,</i> <i>not your
henchman.</i> I don't employ lobbyists. <i>I employ people</i> <i>who can be
useful to me.</i> And you are proving otherwise. Quiet now. - I'll figure
something out. -<i> Soon.</i>
I'll meet you in the car. He's done a good job handling all this. - Yes, he
has. - Should we have any more concerns? - He claims he doesn't have
anything else. - Do you believe him? I wouldn't go that far. - Keep an eye
on him. - I plan to. As for Raymond, we have to strike back hard and

fast. I want him obliterated. More than that. Let's make him suffer. I
don't know whether to be proud or terrified. Perhaps both.
Probably have to knock it down. It's worth more as an empty lot. Is there anything
else you wanna take? A memento or something? Nah. I ain't one for lookin' back.
Eyes ahead. Good luck, Freddy.
Ch,10
- Sir. - What took you so long? I can have a briefing ready in five minutes. Don't
bother. I had Seth do it. He doesn't have security clearance. Well, he does now.
Mr. President, after you. I'll see you in my office.
I want you to stick with her at all times. Keep me informed of everything. He's
almost done with his shift, sir. I can put another agent on-- - No, I want it to be
Meechum. - Absolutely, sir. As long as necessary. I'll be back as soon as I can
When did you get it? The Army? - Yeah. It's grown since then. Tell me about it.
No. Why not? I don't want to. What are you doing? Tell me about the tattoo. That's not fair. - So what? You think you can just get me wet and I'll spill
everything? - I don't think so... - Mm... ...I know so. I like the pain. - Of the
needle? - Yeah. How bad did it hurt? It hurt a lot. You like when it hurts? I killed a
lot of people. What? In the Army. ...it helped. Finish.
If you haven't found anything now, what makes you think you will? Maybe we
missed something. I doubt it, but we could try. You think Tusk isn't planning his
next attack even as we speak? We've been thorough, sir. He doesn't leave
footprints. You want to shift tactics? The casino. We go public as soon as possible.
You said that was a last resort. Seth, you need to find a way to make that happen
so it doesn't link to us. If we launch that missile, it could blow us up too. Not if we
spin it right. - If we keep the focus on-- - Seth. You're here to listen, not
contribute. I wouldn't have him here if I didn't want him to contribute. Sir... he's
been sitting with this for three hours. I've been working on it for three months.
And accomplished nothing. It's time we go on the offensive. - What do you think?
- Ayla Sayyad. - She's already digging into Tusk and Feng. - How close is she? She
never mentioned a casino, but now that I know what the dots are, I can see that
she's tarting to connect them.
Have you gotten any rest at all? - No, have you? - No, not yet. How's Claire?
Secret Service thinks it's an isolated attempt, but they're being cautious. After
the Galloway thing and the interview, half the country thinks she's a baby killer,
or an adulterer, or both. But Claire's taking it in stride. We're in good hands.
That's very frightening. I can see why you haven't slept. One of us should,
probably the one that's calling all the shots. No, I can hold out a little while
longer. No, go to the residence, spend some time with your wife. You'll come back
feeling like a new man. Honestly, it's less stressful here. - Counseling hasn't
helped? - No, it has... slowly. - I got rid of Christina when Linda resigned. - I heard.
It's improved things some, but... ...there's still work to do. Makes me tired just to
think about it. Well, you probably wouldn't be the first president to get a little
shut-eye on one of these sofas. - I was joking. - I wasn't. Do the free world a favor
and get some rest. - I'll let you be. - No, stick around. You should be nearby if
President Qian wants to get on the phone. I've always loathed the necessity
of sleep. Like death, it puts the most powerful men on their backs.

Let me rephrase. Did any of that revenue <i>We have visitors</i> <i>from all
over the world.</i> I'm speaking specifically about a businessman named Xander
Feng. I have no idea who that is. <i>I'm looking at FAA</i> <i>flight records that
show</i> <i>a private plane he owns</i> <i>making numerous trips</i> <i>to
Kansas City. And I spoke</i> <i>with Missouri Bus and Limo,</i> which has
transported Chinese visitors to your casino. <i>- Ms. Said--</i> - Sayyad. <i>Ms.
Sayyad, the only reason</i> <i>I returned your call</i> <i>was because you
work</i> <i>for</i> The Telegraph. <i>It's not every day that I get a call from a
paper as big as yours.</i> But I don't know what you're trying to get at here, so if
you'll excuse- What about Raymond Tusk? - What about him? - Feng has ties to
Tusk. Tusk has ties to the president. You have ties to Feng. <i>That looks like
foreign money being used to influence political--</i> - it's libelous. - Not if it's
true. I won't bat an eyelash getting my attorneys involved. <i>Tusk made the
same threat.</i> <i>If a man worth 40 billion</i> <i>dollars doesn't intimidate
me,</i> <i>you certainly don't,</i> <i>Mr. Lana--</i> Hello? He hung up. <i>I
had nothing</i> <i>to do with it, Raymond.</i> I can smell the horseshit
through the phone. <i>You think I'd put</i> <i>myself at this great a risk?</i>
Desperate men are capable of anything. - I want it to go away, just like you do. Then pull her back. I have no control over the press, Raymond. <i>You'll
destroy</i> <i>yourself, Frank, not me.</i> Thank you for that unsolicited
advice. Work with Doyle, make sure we have no weak spots. - Meechum.
- We can talk tomorrow, sir. No. What is it? I'd like to put in a request to be on
your wife's detail full time. At least until the death threats quiet down. That's very
thoughtful. I'll only do it if you approve, sir. - Have you spoken to Claire? - When
she came home. - She likes the idea. - Then I think we should do it. I'll let Agent
Rockland know. Sorry for interrupting you, sir. You didn't interrupt anything. Good night, sir. - Good night, Meechum. You'll never believe what just happened. What? - Meechum came into the office and found me watching something... ...other than the news. - Oh! - Oh, no. - He was very professional about it. - Were
you...? - No, no. I was just watching. That's really funny. Do you miss being with
Adam? Where did that come from? Miss it? No. Well, you must, sometimes. He
meant a lot to me for a while. But that's done now. What about you? What about
me? Are you unsatisfied? There's just too much at stake now. No one we can
trust. We don't have the freedom we once did. Maybe it's better this way. No
room for distractions. I don't mind the sacrifice. We chose this instead.
I assume you're here to talk about Claire's bill. It's not a pet project. There are
three dozen cosponsors on either side of the aisle. - It's a serious bill. - I don't
disagree. - Except with the language. - I can explain my thinking, but I
doubt I'll convince you anymore-- Putting aside the military's honor,
chain of command, all the things that you hold dear... ...let's consider
one simple fact. You wouldn't have this office if it weren't for me. I made
very clear that I wouldn't be a puppet. I'm not trying to pull strings, but
you could show a little gratitude. If it were anything else, Mr. Vice
President... but not this. All you're doing is making the inevitable more
difficult. It's not inevitable. Claire doesn't have the votes yet. You really
want to fight us on this. I don't want to fight you at all. Which is why I
suggested to Claire that we sit down-- I neither have the time nor the
inclination to negotiate with you! Cosponsor the bill, whip the damn
votes, I'm no longer asking. Then I'm no longer listening. You don't have

just this office to thank me for. If you win reelection, you can thank me
for that, too. Those attack ads didn't just disappear on their own. - What
do you mean? - Why don't you ask Remy Danton. And ask him about
Raymond Tusk while you're at it. That ought to make for some very
interesting pillow talk. You keep up the good work, Nancy. I will, Mr. Vice
President. I miss having you around, but you're my eyes and ears now,
otherwise I'd steal you back in a heartbeat. Well, thank you, sir. It
means a lot to me that you say that.
It's not beginning the story that I fear, it's not knowing how it will end. Everyone
is fair game now, including me.
You can bet your bottom dollar the attorney general is gonna investigate. - With
the firestorm this is causing in the media-- - What's our course of action? As your
counsel, I would encourage you not to speak to the press until we have more
information. As your average citizen, the longer you wait, the more suspicious it
looks. If there's been any irregularity, I had nothing to do with it. Your friendship
with Tusk implies guilt by association. Are we presuming guilt before innocence?
I'm a lawyer, I presume nothing. But public opinion doesn't have a law degree.
Give us a few moments. I have to advise you not to have any conversation about
this matter - without me present. - Your advisement has been noted. I'll be
right outside. Is this what you were keeping from me? We should follow
your counsel's advice - and not-- - Tell me if it's true, about the money.
With Bill out of the room, we open ourselves up to-- Damn it, Frank! I've
been in the dark too long on this. That ends now. I don't know any
details. Feng told me if the Bridge project got approved, the GOP would
stop getting money. We approved it, the money stopped. Jesus Christ,
that connects the White House directly to the money. No, sir. You knew
nothing, you still know nothing. If the DOJ finds any concrete evidence
of foreign money-- That's Raymond Tusk's head, not yours. You've done
nothing wrong. Guilt by association, Frank. You heard the man. If the
DOJ investigates, it will only prove your innocence. Nobody walks away
from something like this without bruises. Well, bruises you can survive.
I just don't know how we can avoid it at this point. Unless you want to
accelerate the process and get rid of it. We could always have the
attorney general appoint a special prosecutor. - That's a terrible idea. Maybe so. And given where we are, Frank, I'm not inclined to follow your
suggestions. Well, I wasn't suggesting it was something you should do.
Just as a possibility. No, in fact, I don't think you should. I think it's
better to drag these things out as long as possible. 00:34:52,198 -->
00:34:55,992 - Let the public fatigue on it. - And have it hanging over
our heads until the midterms? - It'll lose steam. - What if it doesn't. I've
got the Pentagon proposing tactical drone strikes in the South China
Sea. I can't be dealing with something like this for months on end.
Maybe you're right then. A special prosecutor is the way to go. I didn't
say that, you did. Oh, no. I just meant in terms of getting it off your
plate. It wouldn't be on my plate if you kept me better informed. I have
done nothing but try to insulate you, sir. Is that what you call the
feeding frenzy I just went through? I make this solemn promise to you,
Mr. President. I will take the fall if it comes to that, but it won't.

However you decide to deal with this, I think your instincts are right. We
probably shouldn't involve a special prosecutor. Send Bill back in.
Tusk is a client, doesn't mean I know everything Bullshit. The reason you're a
partner at Glendon Hill is because you know the things nobody else does. What
do you want me to say? - Is it true? - We don't talk about work. We're not in bed,
we're in my fucking office. And in here, you work for Frank. - I work for no one but
myself. - Keep telling yourself that. Unlike you, I don't peddle my goods for
whoever can pay the highest retainer. I'm the bitch to a lot of top dogs, I'm fully
aware and willing, but you're worse. You're Frank's bitch and refuse to believe it. That's not true. - Case in fucking point. Don't turn this. You knew about the
money and you didn't tell me. Even though it's thrown my seat into contention.
Let's say there was money, and let's say I did know, - what good would it have
done? - It means you were willing to watch me lose! It means I respected the
boundaries that you demanded. - No changes, no special treatment. - This is
different! - So now we're making exceptions? - When it's this important, yes! You
can't have it both ways. Were you...? Was I what? ...fucking me to get info on
Frank? - Is that what you think? - I don't know what to think. But I'm getting tired
of having to say it.
How did it go? - He's skeptical. - Should I call Tricia? No. It could look like I was
trying to go behind his back. We'll just have to wait and see. I made my case.
Hopefully, he'll disagree with it. But this could've been the wrong move. Well,
don't doubt yourself. Seth has gotten over 3,000 e-mails in the last six hours. The phones are overloaded. - So you ignore all that? I can't ignore the
Department of Justice. What can I do? Come and visit me when I'm in prison.
I'm on my way to my lawyer's office, Remy. That's not where I want to be when
I'd usually be in bed. I can't stop Frank from leaking things. No, but you can make
sure he suffers more than us. And I say "us," Remy, because your skin is in this
game now, too. - Are you gonna deny? <i>- Of course I'm gonna deny.</i> Every
step of this was legal. They can't prove the links between them. <i>- What about
Lanagin?</i> - He'll cooperate. It's Feng we need to worry about. I'll find a way to
get in touch with him. <i>We do have one major advantage.</i> The public can
hate me, but as long as Clayton West remains profitable, my stockholders won't
care. Frank doesn't have the same liberty. Public opinion can demolish him. You
need to make sure that happens. I can work with the Republicans on that.
<i>Well, we'll be under the</i> <i>magnifying glass too.</i> <i>This will be a
witch hunt.</i> I'll make sure that they pick the right targets. What you need to
do is go after the leadership. Make them hurt. They'll turn on Frank to save
themselves. <i>Birch, Womack, Sharp.</i> <i>Especially Jackie Sharp.</i>
<i>She's his chosen one.</i> - Remy? - I heard you. I got my marching orders.
i>- I'm counting on you.</i> - I'll deliver. <i>Let's talk in the morning.</i>
I don't want to do it, Bill, but my fear is this: if we wait until the water
goes from hot to boiling, we seem reactionary, not proactive. But
proactive could also seem defensive. Like the suspect that screams "I
didn't do it" before anyone asks. Aside from that, we simply haven't had
time to prepare. - Maybe wait a couple of weeks. - That defeats the
purpose. - Then a few days. - I'd like to go with Dunbar. - Sir-- - I've
made my decision. Bill, I'd like you to convey my wishes to the attorney
general. Ultimately, the decision is his. We can't appear to be pressuring

him. - Of course not. - Thank you, sir. The only thing more satisfying
than convincing someone to do what I want, is failing to persuade them
on purpose. It's like a "Do Not Enter" sign, it just begs you to walk
through the door.
Ch. 11
These were fund-raisers. I speak to dozens of people. Usually about nothing at
all. I'm Southern, Ms. Dunbar. My mother taught me that conversation during
mealtime is not only polite, it aids the digestive process. So you didn't speak to
him about the Adohi Tribe's contributions - to any of these super PACS? Absolutely not. I never discuss super PACs with any supporters. We both know the
law. During one of these polite conversations, do you recall Mr. Lanagin ever
mentioning Xander Feng? - I do not. - Does that name mean anything to you?
Other than being plastered all over the news? In that regard, it means as much as
Kim Kardashian. Then let me be more specific. What knowledge do you have of
Mr. Feng's political activities?
<i>There are rumors that you and Mr. Feng served as back channels</i> - to the
trade summit last May. - Exactly. Rumors. We have Feng in the US during the
summit. If he was back-channeling, and even if I were aware, any form of
diplomatic communication is usually classified. Have you ever discussed Feng
with the president? Any major player in Beijing is worthy of discussion. - So that's
a yes. - It's a general comment. Did you discuss him during the energy crisis? I
assume you're alluding to his refinery co-venture-- - Yes, with Raymond Tusk. The refinery was never part of our conversation. We needed an immediate
solution. A refinery would've solved nothing in the short term. And it's my
understanding that deal fell through. Correct. But Tusk did receive a subsidy. As
did every other nuclear energy provider. But his connection with Feng, then a
subsidy on samarium-- Nobody made any profits off these subsidies. At best
they're breaking even. In fact, Raymond fought us on the issue. Then let's back
up to the Port Jefferson Bridge.
Was the bridge a trade-off to prevent additional GOP funding? As far as I know,
the bridge was a delivery on a promise the president had made to the voters. Are
we finished here? Almost. How many members of Congress have you
interviewed, Ms. Dunbar? About 200? - One hundred ninety-four. - I want to be of
help, but I doubt I can offer any more than the 194 that preceded me. - I have
gotten some useful testimony. - From who? - A high-ranking House member. - In
the leadership? This individual says he attended a meeting, July 14th, in the Oval
Office. She said "he." So it must have been Birch. I'm sure Raymond had no
trouble buying him off. You attended that meeting also. - It appears so. - You
recall the subject of that meeting? A wave of conservative attack ads. We were
being outspent. It must have been quite a shock when Lanagin's tribe shifted
contributions to the other party, when they hadn't given a single dime to the
Republicans before that. It would've been a shock, but we didn't know where the
money was coming from. - According to my source-- - Bob Birch. My source says
the estimate was 25 million. You said, and I quote: "With this kind of influx,
Sounds like something I might say. Bob has a better memory than me. The
money stopped just after the Port Jefferson Bridge was approved Is there a theory
here, or are you just grasping at straws? The bridge leads to Feng. Feng gives me
Lanagin and Tusk. - Tusk and the President-- - Ms. Dunbar, you want to play six

degrees of separation, you could throw in Jimmy Hoffa and the pope. How about
one degree of separation. Douglas Stamper, your chief of staff. This is him at
Lanagin's casino, July 14th. I used these to get a warrant for flight records. The
next day, Mr. Stamper was on a flight to Beijing. Why was he at the casino? And
why was he in Beijing? - I would like to speak to my client.
The vice president needs to consult with his advisors. National security? Are you
really going - to play that card, Oliver? - His answers could entail classified
material. - When can we expect a response? - I'll let you know. - May we hold onto
the screen cap? - Be my guest. - We'll be in touch soon, Ms. Dunbar. - Mr. Vice
President. If you think you're insulated, don't. Our investigation is much bigger
than Douglas Stamper. - That's enough, Ms. Dunbar. - Thank you for your time,
Mr. Vice President. Happy to cooperate. From the lion's den to a pack of
wolves. When you're fresh meat, kill and throw them something fresher.
How did they know to look for Stamper? To search the tapes on that exact day? Don't jump to conclusions. - You're throwing me under the bus. Underwood's the
roadkill, not you. They're going to fuck me. They'll find a way. You know
that. And if that's the case, you and your family will be taken care of.
They're already offering me a plea. You haven't even been charged yet. If I cooperate. - You'll do less time. But your family will have nothing.
They'll still have nothing when you get out. You testify against Raymond
and he'll still walk, because all they'll have is your word, and that
doesn't count for much right now. You wouldn't be here if he wasn't
afraid. I'm not here because he's afraid. I'm here because you are. And I
want to make sure you don't do anything stupid.
Frank. My deputy briefed me on the latest. How did it go? We have a few followup questions we have to address. - Like what? - Nothing major. Just odds and
ends, a few details. I was under the impression this would be short and sweet. So
was I. But she's very deliberate. We need this over, Frank, at least as far as the
White House is concerned. We can't be distracted. Not with warships on the
move. I'm confident we're in the homestretch. You seem more
concerned than you're letting on. - Oh, no. Not at all. - You're fidgeting.
Oh... It's my class ring. I forget I... - I buried it. - You what? I... It's a long
story. I've never seen you this stressed before, Frank. Well, I've never
seen you this tired before, sir. You've got rings of your own, dark ones.
They're getting worse, aren't they? You should take more naps on those
sofas in the Oval. Naps don't cut it these days, Frank. Not even a dent.
Lie after lie. First to a prosecutor, then to a president. I feel exposed,
like the skin where my ring used to be. Even Achilles was only as strong
as his heel.
I paid cash for my ticket.
I was careful. Clearly not enough. Sir, the casino had cameras
everywhere. There was no way to avoid them. But there had to have
been thousands of hours of footage. - How they found that-- - I have to
ask you a question, Doug. And I'm sorry, but I need you to be honest. Are you drinking again? - God no. - Truly? - It's not an option. Because it
would explain a lot. You have every right to be upset. This was my fault.
I'm more concerned than I'm upset. I need you now, Doug, more than

ever. I know. We're not young men. If we fail, we'll die in a cage. I
haven't been myself lately. That's what you said to me 14 years ago.
When I gave you a second chance, it paid off. You got clean, Doug.
Nothing means more to me than this job, sir. Nothing. Whatever's going
on, I need to know it can be managed. And if you need my help, I'm here
to help you. I'm good, sir. I can handle myself. Things will be different.
I've never given someone a third chance... ...until this very moment.
And I'm grateful. You won't regret it. Please believe that, sir. It was
Remy who alerted them to the footage. His going-away gift. Read the
back. - What do you think he's trying to say? - I don't know. But track
him down and set up a meeting. - What about Dunbar? - We can't run
from the facts. I'll say whatever you want me to say, I'll take
responsibility for all of it. - She could indict you. - That's what having a
staff is for. I have a better solution. We'll both take responsibility. How? - Set up an interview with Dunbar, day after tomorrow. You and I
need time to do our homework. Yes, sir.
Look, Megan, I know the last six months have been difficult. But I need your help.
We just don't have the support that we expected in the leadership. Yeah, I figured
this wasn't just about checking up on me. You changed your mind before, and I
understand why. But now it seems as though things are more stable with you. Are you willing? - It's hard to say no when I'm in your house. You hear those
people out there. They're loud, but I think we need to be louder. And it can't be
my voice because I'm the "baby killer." The "cheater." It needs to be your voice. A
clear voice. I'm already testifying at the court-martial. But that's closed to the
media. It's not enough. There are so many people this has happened to, why
does it have to be me? Because you're the one who called. Are you gonna try to
put it out before McGinnis gets sentenced?
- Seth, you have a minute? - Matt, I have to call you back. Close the
door. When the vice president brought you on board I advised against it.
But I can't deny you've done a good job. I appreciate you saying that.
I'm very protective of the vice president. I find it hard to share that duty
with anyone else, which leaves me open to error. It's one of my faults.
As I told the vice president, I understand that trust is something I need
to earn. - Given how I got the job-- - If the vice president trusts you,
then I trust you. We're a team now. And the truth is I can't do this alone.
Anything and everything you ask of me. It might have nothing to do
with the media. - Press secretary is just a title. - Good. We have two
tasks. First, find me Remy Danton. - But be discreet. - I'll track him
down. Second, I need you to go through the vice president's travel logs.
- Everything in the past ten years. - What are we looking for? Anything
that could hurt us. I'll work forward, you work backward. I'm on it. And,
Doug, thanks. Nancy, I need you to order me a new phone.
- Not at all, sir. - Your chief of staff-- I had a gut feeling that the casino was
involved. I sent Doug to get to the bottom of it. You should've taken this to the
DOJ - the first inkling you-- - That's what I didn't want. To create some ruckus if
nothing was going on? You can't go on conducting your own investigations, Frank.
Fact-finding, due diligence, whatever you want to call it. If any laws were being
broken, I wanted to know. That's what you want to tell Dunbar? That I didn't want
to disclose our diplomatic protocols. That I was concerned about the midterms.

And I wanted to protect the president of the United States. Maybe what I did was
wrong, but I didn't do anything illegal. - You're certain of that? - I've discussed this
with my lawyers. Dunbar does not strike me as the sort of person who will put on
the brakes, even if we admit all of this. If fact, it might encourage her to dig
deeper. You're right. Which is why I want to hand over all of my travel logs. - And I
think you should too. - Volunteer them? - As a gesture of cooperation. - Haven't
we made enough gestures? It will take the wind out her sails. No, I don't... want
her poring over every one of my comings and goings. He's worried about his
marriage counseling, as he should be. If you're worried about your marriage
counseling, you shouldn't be. Imagine the fallout, if the public were to find out-- A
needle in a haystack, and not a needle Dunbar is looking for. She's interviewed
half of Congress. That woman's after blood. But not for gossip. Even if she does
raise an eyebrow, you were visiting a sick friend, weren't you? Ostensibly. - Well,
she couldn't possibly find any fault with that. - I'd like Galich in here. - I'll let you
two talk privately. - When are you seeing Dunbar? - Tomorrow, so you have some
time. I'll speak to Bill and get back to you. He'll advise you against it, which is his
job. But I would just encourage you to think politics, and not legalese. Thank you,
sir.
You were right. It has been a long day on the trail. It's still a close race. But not if
the voters knew how you became whip. Are you honestly threatening me? Set up
a meeting with Frank. I don't care what you talk about, as long as you're alone
and the meeting is on the books. Then you're gonna sit down with Dunbar. I've
already done my interview. Tell her Frank grilled you on your testimony. - Perjure
myself? - Save your seat. You know what? Tell everyone. - Think how that would
play out. - I don't care. You'd really toss yourself off a cliff for Frank? I have zero
allegiance to Frank Underwood. I won't be manipulated by him, and I sure as fuck
won't be manipulated by you. - I'm not bluffing. - Then I was right. - About what? How little I meant. That has nothing to do with this. It has everything to do with
this. I should feel disgusted, but I don't. Just supremely disappointed.
The president's turning over everything? - From the day he took office. - We're
sure this includes - the visits to his friend? - It has to. - It was full-security detail. Phenomenal. We have something we can work with. - Now, as for my logs. They're clean. - You bet your life on that? - I would. - Me too, sir. - We've been
through them twice, - backward and forward. - My statement? - In your inbox. - I
looked it over. Seth did a nice job. We need to go wide with this the moment the
interview's over so we beat Dunbar to the punch in case she decides to release
something. I'll be at my computer ready to press send the moment I hear from
Doug. - Have either of you slept? - We're awake, fully operational. You take a
shower and put on a fresh suit. Yes, sir. I'll see you over there. You have at least
three hours. Take a nap. You can use my office.
And what about poor Havemeyer? Was he any help to us on Jackie Sharp? I do
not take your hesitation as a promising sign. I never like disappointing you. - He
had nothing? - No. Hm... Now, do you think that's because there's nothing there, or because he's protecting her? - There's nothing there. - I can go to another
congressman. - No, no, no. It has to be somebody high-profile, someone in the
leadership who will make waves. - Let me get back to Birch. - It's too obvious,
now that he's shown no sympathy for Frank. This can't look orchestrated. Multiple
fronts, Remy. It has to be Jackie Sharp. Mack? Let's finish up here. I gotta get back

to work. - You got it, boss. - You need to get back to work too. And what we
discussed... make it happen.
- You denied being a back channel. - I did not deny. I chose not to confirm
because it was classified. - But your office has consistently-- - I instructed Doug to
do so, along with my communications department. When a back channel
becomes public, - it defeats its purpose. - An orchestrated deception-- If we had
refused to comment, it would've suggested it was true, which would've
endangered the process. I really had no choice. - Mr. Feng is currently in Dubai. - I
know. He's fleeing corruption charges, not the first time he's been accused. - And
your question? - I know he laundered the money. It's just a matter of time before I
have the proof to substantiate that. So my question, which I am asking again, is
whether you knew? And I'll repeat my answer. I did not. I did sense that
something was awry. Doug was aware of my concerns. And I took it upon myself
to find out. The vice president didn't know. You had no knowledge he was going to
the casino? None. But that doesn't mean I don't take responsibility for my staff's
behavior. - The buck stops with me. - And what did you find? Nothing. No illegal
activity. I don't have the same resources that you do. If you suspected, why didn't
you go immediately to the NIGC, the BIA, - the Department-- - You have to
understand, we're facing very difficult midterms. I didn't want to bring attention
to a series of allegations that may have no basis in fact. Now, that may have
been misguided logic, but that's how I chose to act. The mistake is mine and
mine alone. Not Doug's, certainly not the president's. It shouldn't surprise you if I
say it feels Which is why I'm prepared to give you the full picture. Oliver? The
White House believes in transparency. All of the vice president's personal travel
logs. And the last ten years since I became whip. As well as the president's since
inauguration. There should be no doubt as to whom we met with and when. - I am
skeptical about what this contains. - Which is what we anticipated, and why
Oliver will walk you through anything you might need to know. It's all there, but if
you have any questions or requests, we'll be happy to facilitate.
You're a tough man to track down these days. You got the watch? "To
improve is to change." "To perfect is to change often." What sort of
change are you looking for? - Whichever leaves me options. - Trouble at
Glendon Hill? Paid leave until the investigation is over. Well, at least
you're being paid. First step in terminating my partnership. You know
how things go. No matter what happens, there's a stain I can't wash
out. So you're looking for career opportunities. I'm not offering myself
to you wholesale. I keep fighting you, but I can fight you less. - And by
"less" you mean... - Enough to hurt, but not finish you. And in return, I
have a future beyond Glendon Hill. - Whatever that might look like. - So
you're offering neutrality. - But you'll go with the victor. - I figure let the
best man win. And if you go down, it won't be because of me. That's
worth something. - Where's this coming from? - Insurance, that's all.
Does it have anything to do with Jackie? That's over. I know you've got
Birch in your pocket. Womack's not an option. We're too close. But
Jacqueline... This is about my future, pure and simple. She's not a part
of it. Keep the watch, as a token of good faith. He might deny it, but
he's protecting her. What he doesn't realize is that I have even less
regard for Jackie than Raymond does. Poor Remy. The heart can choke
the mind when all its blood flows back unto itself.

Ch.12
Floyd Mayweather visited the White House this morning. - I thought he'd get a
kick out of it. - Did he have a go at it? He threw a combination I thought would
bust the stitching loose. That must have been a treat to watch. He was telling
me, it's not just about the power. There are plenty of boxers more powerful than
he is. No, it's his tactics, his precision, his speed, most important, his
counterpunch. He dances and dodges, then picks the perfect moment to strike.
Does that sound familiar? How do you mean, sir? You gave this to me as a
gesture of friendship. When I look at this now, I don't see friendship, I see
calculation. You set me up, Frank. - What? - Your back-channeling, the special
prosecutor... When I think about Raymond, about Linda, about Jim Matthews...
You are wrong, sir. Questions from Dunbar, about the marriage counseling. "It's a
needle in the haystack, she's not trying to find. That's what you said. Well, she
found the needle. - I am shocked, sir, I never... - Like hell you are. - You want to
diminish me. - Diminish you? Laying the groundwork for a challenge in 2016. I am
sorry to have to say this, sir, but you are being ludicrous. Do you really think I'm
so blind? A vice president has never challenged a sitting president! You've
climbed the ladder doing things other men would never do. Always in service to
you and the party. It was your idea to hand over those logs. You connected the
White House to China, the casino. Raymond Tusk entangled us with China and the
casino. - And if I hadn't intervened... - You can't dodge and duck like Floyd. I've
learned your moves now. This office breeds paranoia. Don't give into it, sir. I'd ask
for your resignation if it wouldn't make things worse. But from this moment
forward, I don't want to hear your voice. I don't want to see your face. And if I do,
I will put you on your goddamn back. Exile. I've managed to isolate the president
from everyone... ...including myself.
Francis is devastated. All he wants to do is help, but hefeels like he's being
unfairly accused. <i>I don't want to believe it, Claire,</i> <i>but Garrett is
convinced.</i> Will you talk to him? I have to concentrate on keeping my family
together right now, not getting into arguments over... <i>If Francis were</i>
<i>really up to something,</i> don't you think he would've told Dunbar about
the therapy? He basically did, by forcing us to hand over the logs. Your husband
chose to hand them over. If he had said no, Francis wouldn't have pressed the
issue. I don't want to debate this with you, Claire. <i>All I'm asking is that
you</i> <i>really think this through, Tricia.</i> - Is he with you right now? Who? <i>- Frank.</i> - No, it's just you and me. I want to get off the phone. <i>Will you please talk to Garrett?</i> - Goodbye, Claire. What do you think? I don't
think she's going to side with me instead of her husband. Did Tricia tell anyone
else about the Xanax, besides you? I doubt she would. She's very sensitive about
it. If she'd only told someone else, then we could just leak it. - But it'll too
obvious.
The doctor. He's protecting them. He won't say anything. Unless they
waive the privilege. They have absolutely nothing to gain by that. But
we do. - after I backstabbed him? - That's precisely why he'll talk to you.
- I can't go to St. Louis. - Tusk will come east. Your job is to get in the
same room with him. - What's the play? - Remy Danton, go. - Get me
Durant, in person. - I'll set it up. And Doug, let's make sure we're
airtight on everything else. - No Achilles' heel. - Yes, sir. "Cry 'Havoc,'"
said he who fought chaos with chaos, "and let slip the dogs of war."

- What are you up to? - Put Green on the fucking line, please. Anything you have
to say, you can discuss it with me. What I have to say is way above your pay
grade. Where do I turn off this shit? Look at the other screen, to the left. - What is
this? - That is the access grid to all eight of AT&T's data centers. So, what do you
say you uncuff me and tell Agent Green I'll be waiting for his call.
I'm trying to repair relations with China. Giving Feng asylum would be a slap in
the face. Garrett's in trouble. He needs to appear resolute. We're only as strong
as the president we serve. We have to rescue him. How can you be sure his
testimony won't implicate the White House? He knows where his bread is
buttered. This isn't about you saving the president. - Of course it is. - We've been
down this road before, Frank. Michael Kern, Adam Galloway. I wanted to become
secretary of state in order to engage in productive diplomacy, not full-time
damage control. Which is why we have to put Garrett back on his feet. You want
him on his ass, Frank. Is this what the president told you? He's paranoid, Cathy.
He's trying to turn people against me. You're turning them against yourself. You're
asking me to undermine the president. All right. Let's say that what the president
has accused me of... ...is true. Would that be so bad, if taken to its conclusion?
Wouldn't you stand to benefit? Wouldn't the country? - I don't want anything to
do with this. - Just one more time, Cathy. Let's unshackle ourselves. This is a onetime offer, Mr. Feng. <i>I would need it in writing. Open-ended, no
restrictions.</i> <i>The same goes</i> <i>for legal immunity.</i> First I need
to know whether or not you funneled money through Lanagin's casino. No. I will
speak freely once I have arrived safely in the United States. <i>Unless you
provide</i> <i>valuable evidence now,</i> the attorney general will not grant
immunity on any level. <i>I have denied</i> <i>these allegations in China.</i>
<i>My enemies want me dead. You're asking me to give them confirmation.</i>
And we're giving you safe haven in return. <i>I already have</i> <i>safe haven
in Dubai.</i> Your asylum there is only temporary. We're offering you permanent
status. <i>I'm confident that they will</i> <i>grant me permanent status.</i>
Did you hear that directly from the minister of foreign affairs? <i>Because I just
spoke to him.</i> Right now you are a man without a passport. Whatever assets
Beijing hasn't seized are frozen in every country with close ties to the United
States or China, which is just about every country in the world. You want your
freedom and fortune. <i>We want information.</i> <i>Mr. Feng?</i> What do
you need to know?
One of you wanna tell me what this is all about? - You have to comply. - You
mean I have to show up. - Unless we appeal. - We'd lose. She wouldn't have
issued the subpoena unless she had something substantial. I agree, which is why
I think you should go and plead the Fifth. - What do you think she has? - I don't
want to speculate. Goddamn it, I pay the six of you more in one day than it costs
to put a kid through college. I pay you to know more than I do. Her line of
questioning will tell us a lot. We could use that to prepare a defense in case
there's an indictment. - When do I have to go? - Your interview is the day after
next. Forty-eight hours?
I'm sorry to interrupt, but my producer is telling me that Jacqueline
Sharp has called in, the House majority whip. - Congresswoman, are
you there? - <i> Yes, I'm here, Chris.</i> <i>- Thank you for taking my
call.</i> <i>- </i> Thank you. <i>- Hello, Megan.</i> <i>Congresswoman.</i> First of all, as a veteran like yourself, I want to

thank you for your service to our country. <i>- Duty doesn't require
thanks.</i> - I'm glad you brought up duty, because you recently
equated it with brainwashing. - That's not what I meant. - <i> You said
"toeing the party line."</i> What I meant was the culture and the
system is one... I didn't call to argue with you, Megan. The opposite. We
can't fix this problem until we find some common ground, wouldn't you
agree? There is no middle ground, as far as I'm concerned. - The military
needs to change... - Can't we agree that you and I served so that we
could protect open debate, which is the very bedrock of democracy?
Yes, in theory, but that's not what I'm talking about. <i>Not in theory, in
reality.</i> Brave men and women die fighting for that freedom. The
meaning of bravery is fighting for the freedom of those with whom you
disagree. Sure, but let's get back to the issue here. <i>What I don't
think is brave</i> is Claire Underwood dodging this debate and having
you fight this battle for her instead. <i>That's not true.</i> <i>Then
why am I talking to you</i> <i>instead of her? It's her bill.</i> <i>It's
not just hers.</i> <i>It's all of ours.</i> <i>Except one of you</i> <i>is
brave enough to say it,</i> <i>and the other is a coward.</i> <i>Mrs.
Underwood was brave enough to go on national television and admit
that...</i> <i>And where has she been since?</i <i>Deflecting
scandal</i> <i>and hiding from the press.</i> <i>You called me
disgraceful in</i> The New York Times,<i> Megan,</i> <i>and you have
every right.</i> But I also have the right to say that Mrs. Underwood is
disgraceful, because nothing is more disgraceful than running from a
battle. - Megan? - That isn't... <i>We're not even...</i> <i>We'll be right
back.</i>
I've spoken to Elaine Brooks and I'm withdrawing the bill. What you said had
some truth. Early on, you offered to sit down with me and find a middle ground. I
decided to draw a line in the sand. The braver thing would've been for me to
swallow my pride and sit down with you. If you're still open to that, I'd love to
start over. - Are you and Frank up to something? - A passable bill. He had Nancy
spy on me. He brought my personal life into... Francis is used to getting his way,
and he'll do anything to make sure he does, especially if it's something important
to me. I don't know, Claire. I'm skeptical. We're deeply sorry for the way we've
treated you And we want to rebuild the trust we've lost. Do you think that's
possible?
I'm sorry to ambush you, I tried calling. You can't do this to me, Claire. I was very
clear that I have to respect Garrett's... Not that, the sexual assault bill, it's not
going to a vote. Did the Speaker remove it from the docket? No, I did. I just spoke
to Jackie. This is because of what she said about you? My main concern is that
she doesn't come after you next. Not while you and Garrett are going through the
investigation. I thought you should be aware, because I know how much this bill
meant to you - All the work you've put in. - That we've put in. But we'll pass
Jackie's version, take this baby step and build on it. I'm disappointed about the
bill, but I have to say, I'm relieved. How are you holding up? Did you hear what
Catherine did, giving Feng asylum? - Inexcusable. - Garrett's beside himself. He
feels cornered, like we have no choice but to waive the privilege now. - But what
about the medication? - I know. I shouldn't be sharing this. We don't have to talk
about it. You should go. I know you have

a packed schedule. <i>Thank you for doing this.</i> <i>All I had to do was</i>
<i>get her alone in a hallway.</i <i>- I meant with Jackie.</i> - We have our
priorities. I know it isn't easy to let go of something like that. - Promise me
something. - Anything. - I can't live in this house alone. - I'm not going anywhere.
You say that, but this could all backfire. Raymond will plead the Fifth. If he names
me, it's an admission of his own wrongdoing. I'm more worried about Garrett.
You've made a powerful enemy. - We're stronger than they are. - And he's still the
president. I promise you, of all the sacrifices that you've had to make, divorcing a
convict will not be one of them.
The code you're claiming infected the data center isn't there. I programmed the
code to self-erase as soon as it hit the server. It was gone before Lucas was in
cuffs. You don't believe me? This is one of the most sophisticated firewalls in the
world. Even if your code did get you in there, you couldn't break it down. Your
wife uses AT&T. - So does her lover. - What? She's over there right now. Jonathan
Kemp. It's her chiropractor, right? Want to see their texts to each other? - No. Oh, I see, you already know. I don't blame you for not making a fuss, with the kids
still at home. But you walked my code right through that door, into 32 million
people's phones. And that's on you, and it's on the FBI, and it's a shit storm that
will bring the bureau right in front of Congress. So you tell me, how much is
making that disappear worth? You have a hundred years hanging over your head,
extorting the FBI won't help you. Did Douglas Stamper tell you to set up Lucas
Goodwin? Counterterrorism Director, that's a big step up from White House
Liaison. - I think you had a helping hand. - Not true. Keep lying. Meanwhile, here's
what I want. One... I'm no longer your bitch Two, all of my charges are dropped.
Three, all of Barrett Brown's charges are dropped. - That's up to the US attorney. Figure it out.
The most I can do is ask Dr. Larkin how he would respond to certain
questions. But he's a smart man. He'll understand what I'm getting at.
And this approach keeps us within the law? We're not tampering with
testimony? It's a fine line, - but I'll stay on the right side of it. - Thanks.
He shut me out, Frank, just like he did with you. My undersecretary has
been assigned full diplomatic authority. A temporary setback, Cathy.
Where I go, you go. At this very moment, the president is in the
Situation Room. China responded to Feng's asylum exactly the way I
predicted. They're doubling their naval presence off the coast of
Yonaguni. And you know who isn't in the Situation Room? You and I,
Frank. You're thinking about where we are instead of where we're
headed. Now, that isn't the Catherine Durant I waltzed with at the
Jefferson Ball. She understood potential. She had her eyes toward the
future. I told that Catherine Durant that we needed her in the State
Department. We still need her. I wish I knew where she was, because
she's not the Catherine Durant sitting in front of me right now. But I'll
tell you something. If she doesn't show up soon, I'm just gonna have to
keep waltzing alone because I'm done trying to convince this woman in
front of me... ...to take my arm. Oh, don't let me keep you. I'm here. I'm
not going anywhere, Frank. You still have access to the presidential
briefing? Yes, I have it right here. Walk me through everything that's
going on with China. Feng is in play now. We might be able to use him. -

How? - I don't know yet. But he's clearly valuable to Beijing, which
makes him valuable to us.
That's not what I asked, Dr. Larkin. So I will ask for a third time, and let me be
more specific, was any medication prescribed or taken as a result of your
counseling session, by the president of the United States? His faculties were
operating at 100 percent, if that's what you're asking. Has anyone from the
Administration spoken to you? - How do you mean? - About this deposition. Has
anyone approached you, coached you? If you tell me now, I will qualify that as a
timely declaration. - I'd like to leave. - The president waived his privilege. - But
I'm here voluntarily. - Dr. Larkin, at first you wouldn't talk to me because it
violated your ethical code, I respect that, but let me ask you, as a man of faith, is
deliberately lying to me an exception to that code? Because that is what you're
doing by refusing to share the truth.
I thought we were doing something real, changing people's lives. How naive,
right? But at least I didn't want to give up. Maybe Jackie Sharp is right, you are a
fucking coward. I'm the one that pulled you out from under the covers. You were
hiding, you and your pills. You tell yourself whatever you need to. I'm sorry. There
were political realities we couldn't ignore. Do you ever wonder why so many
people hate Washington? It's because of people like you using phrases like that.
Raymond? I'd turn the lights on, but when you're paying for the room
with the best view, you might as well make the most of it. I've never
been in the penthouse here, have you? What's going on? Do you know
why I'm in DC? Oh, it's OK, Remy, there's nothing you can say that I
don't already know. Feng is on his way to testify. Whatever Seth has
told you, don't believe a word of it. What might he have told me that I
shouldn't believe? - don't pretend you didn't. - Playing both sides? Raymond, look. - I want to hear you say it. That you met with Frank. I'll
talk to you, Raymond, but not with him here. Leave us. - Should I hold
the elevator for you? - Go fuck yourself. OK, you can take the stairs. They're toying with you, Raymond. - No doubt, but so are you, Remy. I
wanted to lead Frank on, give him a false sense of security. If you're
going to lie, lie better than that. They want to tear us apart. I don't
blame you for wanting to keep your options open, but clearly you have
bought the wrong insurance policy. Don't shoot yourself in the foot like
this. Your foot, and you're holding the gun. - Now go some place else to
bleed. - You want to talk about blood? How much have you spilled in this
war with Frank? All I've tried to do is keep the peace. You could've let
him have the upper hand. What would that have really cost you, other
than your pride? Such a shame. You have just made 42 billion enemies,
Remy, and some change. Thirty-nine billion, Raymond. Your market cap
is shrinking.
I need you to leave, OK? For your own good. I'm just going to hurt you. I have
thicker skin than you can even imagine. Please don't make this harder than it has
to be. Everything was fine yesterday. It's so sudden. - It's like it's coming out of
nowhere. - Well, it's not. I've been thinking about it for a while. No, you haven't. I
would've sensed it. Would you please, please, please just go? - Just tell me what's
going on. - I don't expect you to understand! - Maybe if you try... - I don't want
you here! OK? I don't love you the way that you love me! I was using you

because it felt good to have you around, but it was selfish! I said the words
because I knew you wanted to hear them, but I didn't mean them and I don't
want to keep saying them. I'm gonna go for a walk while you pack your stuff. No,
I don't want anything that's been here.
I'm surprised you wanted to speak to me. I haven't been the biggest friend of
the administration. Isn't that the very best reason to speak with you? - I'd like to
begin recording. - By all means. A number of political analysts predict that the
House Judiciary Committee will commence with hearings on articles of
impeachment. Let's just stop right there. So these analysts you speak of, they're
making predictions prior to Dunbar's report even being released. That could take
months. There's no way the Judiciary will sit on this for that long. And isn't that
the fundamental flaw with these hearings? The Committee feels compelled to act
because of hypotheses advanced by those in the media, such as yourself. I can't
speak for all of my colleagues, but I'm just reporting facts. Well, you may call
them facts, but if we're being honest... In every article and interview, I report
alleged activities. And if you repeat allegations enough, again and over and over
and over, people start to believe they're true. That's human nature. I've done my
research. Xander Feng admitted to the money laundering. But you're no longer
writing about Xander Feng, are you? You're writing about the administration. The
truth is these hearings have been initiated by the press. And my fear is that the
President will be tried by the press. - Do you believe he's innocent?- Absolutely. I
said so in my written statement, and I say so again now. The White House
counsel has denied coaching Dr. Larkin, but according... Whatever comes to light,
it will only prove the president's innocence, and I'll tell you why. I have never
known anyone more honest, ethical, and patriotic than Garrett Walker. His
reverence for the Constitution and the laws of this country are surpassed by
none. Tricia and I have been blessed with a strong and loving marriage, but even
strong marriages face challenges. Like millions of Americans, we sought
counseling from a spiritual advisor, one who happened also to be a professional
therapist. Over the years, we have often turned to our faith in times of adversity.
Many have criticized us, <i>but would you rather have</i> <i>a president that
doesn't ask for help?</i> <i>I ask for help</i> <i>from my wife every day.</i>
<i>We've relied on one another</i> <i>for 23 years,</i> <i>we've raised two
beautiful</i> <i>children together,</i> <i>endured the</i> <i>campaign trails
together.</i> From the state capital in Denver, to the nation's capital, we've
always been at each other's side. I married this man for the same reason that so
many of you voted for him: because he's a man of God, because he believes in
family... <i>...because he is</i> <i>compassionate and loving.</i <i>Now, none
of us are</i> <i>perfect: I'm not, Tricia's not,</i> <i>although she certainly</i>
<i>comes close.</i> I won't ignore what makes me human, that's a form of
blindness. Good leadership means tackling my imperfections head on. Not bad
for a man on the run. You mean a man with immunity. Wherever you're most
comfortable. We have a lot to discuss. <i>I do so with open eyes,</i> just as I
love with open eyes... ...my wife, my Maker and my country.
Thank you, Meechum. Jackie, in these circumstances, normally I would
come to you, but we need to keep a public distance for the time being. I
thought I was here to discuss the sexual assault bill. - You are. - Among
other things. - You are. - Among other things. - There's a price. - We
don't think of it that way. I'm going to support your bill, no matter what

you say today. - Regarding? - Impeachment. - Well, if it goes to the

Judiciary... - It most definitely will. I'm not sure about that. Did you see
the president's address? - We did. - I think it will help, stop the
bleeding. Impeachment can be defeated. But that's what we need to
avoid. You want impeachment. Why fight a losing battle? - We have a
majority in the House. - We do now, but not if this party fails to distance
itself from a toxic president... We're thinking ahead here. It's why I
came to you about the bill, because it wasn't worth burning a bridge
over. In the long run, we have a lot more to gain by working together. I
don't understand. You said in the<i> Telegraph</i> article... I had to.
My office is three doors down from the president's, I can't publicly
deride him. You want me to do it. We want you to do what you do so
well: whip the votes. I can't abandon the president. If the party rescues
him, we'll lose 50 seats in the House in the midterms. You will lose your
position in the leadership and it will take us a decade to regain the trust
of the electorate. All we're asking is that you have an open mind. Claire
kept an open mind and you'll pass sexual assault reform as a result. You can't possibly compare impeachment... - It's an illustration, Jackie,
of what the future looks like. What we offer is progress, with a promise
of more to come. It's only the beginning, Jackie. Ruthless pragmatism,
remember? That's why I wanted you to be the whip. The three of us,
we're cut from the same cloth. Mr. Vice President, what you're asking is
just shy of treason. Just shy, which is politics. Oh, be careful, it's
delicate. What is it? Something I've been working on for a very long
time, and it's nearly finished. Jackie... help us finish it.

Ch. 13
Defend..
Force..
We needwho vote
I take it.
Brown.
Said no..
Fucked me.
Support, walker
On the advice..
Well want a.
Sets us back
Enough to..
Kitchen

The rest..theres a new president

Ch. 14
Been a while, hasn't it? Did you see that motorcade roll up? It's the first time
thatthe President of the United States has visited Gaffney. Can you believe it? Oh,
I wouldn't be here if I had a choice. But I have to do these sort of things now.
Makes me seem more human. And you have to be a little human when you're the
president. He couldn't even afford to pay for his own gravestone. I paid for it out
of my own scholarship money from The Sentinel. But I'll tell you this, though, Pop:
when they bury me, it won't be in my backyard. And when they come to pay their
respects, they'll have to wait in line.
are the bedrock of the American dream. You work hard, you pay your taxes-- No,
I'm sorry, they were the bedrock of the American dream. But they're not
anymore. Certainly not for the ten million people who are out of work. But
practically speaking, a thousand special interests, organized labor, opposition in
both parties. Now, we can do a version of what you're proposing-- I don't want a
version. I want a vision. As head of this team, and I think I speak for everyone, we have done-- - Speaking as the president, who chose this team and for whom it
works, I want five hundred billion dollars to put ten million people to work. I don't
care how much it hurts. I don't care how controversial it is. Your job is to find a
way. It's my job to convince Congress and the American people. Your job is not to
sell me on your version of my program. Now, are we all clear on what our jobs
are? Good, because I want to present this proposal to leadership in 30 days. Let's make it happen. - Paul? - Your services are no longer needed. - Excuse me?
When Marjory was ill, she wanted the same thing. She left the Smithsonian, and
you know what? She hated every second of being at home, of not being
productive, of not doing what she loved. It made her time with us much harder,
and... it made her deeply unhappy. Work is the best distraction. I wish she hadn't
retired. And, uh... before she lost her lucid thought, she said she regretted it, too.
Can you give me six months? A year at the most? That's all.
Now you see why Donald said yes. He may hate my guts, but there's nothing like
a death in the family to separate the wheat from the bullshit.
You'll make a good candidate. Not by linking arms with the president's wife. If I'm
a disaster, it makes for a good campaign ad. If I do a good job, nobody can fault
you. Either way, it doesn't hurt your chances in 2016. Well, I appreciate you
coming by before going public. It is classy, and thoughtful. I won't actively block
you. The rest is on your shoulders.
Because who knows what will happen? What if you lose? I will not be a
placeholder president, Claire I will win. And I will leave a legacy. You mean we will.
Ch. 15
We're not casting blame, sir. We just believe that this is best for the party. I
suspected this was coming, but months from now. I was hoping by then I'd have
something to show for my efforts, that I could preempt their doubts with
progress. They're nervous. They're being impulsive. Jackie? I stand by the rest of
the leadership. Well, this is certainly a lot to think about.

If we lose this, it undermines your authority. The media is all over it. We need our
rhetoric in line with the Solicitor General's. All right. Christ! Send her in. I'll put
this clip on your computer, for when you're done. Terry Womack. Today. Privately.
What's past is past? My focus is the argument I'll present to the court. She sees
me as the bank robber who made it to the county line. But she's smart enough to
leave her badge at the door. So, the case. That's a powerful image. Even
Supreme Court Justices have hearts.
Senator, you know you were taking out of context what I said. Of course I was. I
was trying to rile you up. And I succeeded. I wish I hadn't, because it's gonna
make things really tough for you. But, if you can convince my colleagues to
change their minds despite that.. why, you'd make a great Ambassador.
- Francis? - No luck. It was his idea. What are you going to do? Top 50 bundlers
from last cycle. I don't need the leadership if I can get the money. - You? - Too
early to tell. Well, I'm here if you need me. I've always said that power is more
important than money. But when it comes to elections, money gives power... well,
a run for its money.
I put a great deal of thought into what you've all asked of me. I challenged myself
to keep an open mind. And my decision is: I will not run for president. Look,
they're thinking it's too good to be true, and it is. I lied in the Oval Office before. I
didn't want to take the chance this time. It's too big a deal to jinx myself. At nine
o'clock tonight, I will announce to the nation my decision. What's the catch? I
wanted us to meet here in this room for a reason. For the past five months, my
team has sat at this very table, developing America Works. You know how much
the program means to me, and I want it to mean as much to you. - So there is a
catch. No, an opportunity. Look, we all know the-- All right, let's just say for...
argument's sake that this table here represents the next year and a half, all right?
So, this is us right now. And down there at the end, that's the election. Now, if I
did run, I'd spend the next few months fundraising. And then somewhere around
here, I'd formally announce. And then even if I did win the nomination, say,
somewhere around here, I'd start to have to face off with a Republican
challenger, probably Mendoza. And then things would get brutal. Daily, daily
events. Fending off attacks. Launching my own. And... you're right. In the
end... ...I'd probably lose. I would spend 18 months campaigning, which would
leave no time to govern. But you have opened my eyes. I feel liberated. I want to
spend these next 18 months dedicated to one thing: America Works. But I need
your help to do it. You're putting an awfully big price tag on this, Mr. President.
No, you've put an awfully big price tag on this. You're asking me to be a
placeholder for 18 months and I intend to govern And if America Works succeeds,
then whoever you choose to run in 2016 not only has the backing of a united
party, but a formidable legacy. But Social Security? Benefits. Entitlements. We
don't want to present a fresh face only to shoot ourselves in the foot. Then let's
not pretend to unite the party, let's unite the party behind this legislation. We'll
never get it past the Republicans. We are not here to negotiate! You want
forward-thinking, Bob? Then think forward. You want a fresh face for 2016? You
wanna work together? Then present my program to Congress. And if it dies there,
so be it. But I want us to fucking try! I am prepared to vacate this chair. Meet me
halfway.

You ever try to do this? Balance an egg? We used to do this as kids. You can't
change the laws of physics, can you? I was wrong. It's too hard. Sir? Fighting the
leadership, raising money. We can't get them to do what they're dead set against
doing. We'd need six months just to get them back to square one. We have to
reverse our thinking. When the wind's blowing at gale force, there's no point in
sailing against it. What do you have in mind?
Clearly, I have a source that knows more than you. Most sources do. At least they
pretend they do.
But the smart move would be to advocate on my behalf. Don't strong-arm me,
Jackie. You're the man in the middle. Who else would I strong-arm? I want to be
on your team, Remy. We do well when we're on the same team.
- Well, it's your job to know. - Things are moving fast. I'm just trying to stay ahead
of them. Work hard? Play by the rules? You aren't guaranteed success. Your
children will not have a better life than you did Ten million of you can't even get a
job, even though you desperately want one. We've been crippled by Social
Security, Medicare, Medicaid, by welfare, by entitlements. And that is the root of
the problem: entitlements. Let me be clear. You are entitled to nothing. You are
entitled to nothing. America was built on the spirit of industry. You build your
future. It isn't handed to you. And the problem with Washington is that we
haven't given you the tools to build it. The only way for us to serve you is to give
you the means to serve yourselves. Well, that's exactly what I intend to do. Not
handouts. Jobs. Real paying jobs. In the next few weeks, the Democratic
leadership will introduce a program called "America Works." Its goal is simple: to
put the ten million Americans who are unemployed to work. All of them. If you
want a job, you get one. The cost is five hundred billion dollars. Now, that's a lot
of money. To pay for it, we'll need to rethink Social Security, healthcare and
benefits from the ground up. We can't maintain the welfare state as we know it.
Now, that's not a popular thing to say. Anyone running for office wouldn't dare
utter those words. Every advisor and consultant and staff member would beg a
presidential candidate not to say them. But I can say them. Because I will not be
seeking the Democratic nomination in 2016. Candidates are cautious. They must
equivocate. They dodge and tiptoe. But I'd rather leave this office having
accomplished something of value than secure another four years having done
nothing at all. Franklin Delano Roosevelt ushered in an era of hope and progress
when he proposed the New Deal. And at the time, his reforms were considered
radical. But he once said, "This country demands bold, persistent
experimentation. It is common sense to take a method and try it. And if it fails,
ad mit it frankly and try another. But above all, try something." Roosevelt would
have understood better than anyone the necessity for trying something different.
The New Deal succeeded for many years, but we must now try something newer
before it fails us. If America Works succeeds, we will reinvent the American
dream. If we fail in our attempt, we will admit it frankly and try another. But
above all, we must try something. Thank you, and God Bless the United States of
America.
Yes, no, I'll try back again tomorrow. I can't fault you for being shortsighted. I
hope you won't fault me for having a long memory. Good night!

Is it okay if I stop by now and then? Do I have a choice? I don't, but I can't force
you to open the door. - Whatever you want. - Thanks. I'll see you soon.
16.
What is the face of a coward? The back of his head as he runs from the battle. It
plays well with the young people. It's important they see their president has
some fun, doesn't take himself too seriously.
There will be no commitment. You could've told me that on the phone. I assumed
you were undoing an insult by having me here. What insult is that? Two of your
predecessors never invited me to Washington. This summit is not just for show. I
want to make meaningful strides toward peace. The Middle East is hopeless.
History tells us that. I'm offering you the chance to make history. I'll be honest
with you, because you've been kind enough to invite me to your country.
You made your point. Now, please, sit and let us all drink and laugh, like true
Russians do. Hm? Well, Mr. President, this is proof why you made the right
decision never to have children. My staff prepped them. - They assured us. - It's
nothing. - I admire your grace. - Please. Not another word.
Excuse me. Which is more intoxicating, this wine or Claire Underwood? How often
do you use that line? - Not as often as you use yours. - Which line is that? "Viktor,
are you in love?" President Descoteaux told me you asked him the same thing
when he was here. I believe my husband quoted a Russian author the night he
gave that toast. - Don't say, uh... Tolstoy? - Pushkin. "A deception that elevates us
is dearer than a host of low truths." Ah... He didn't make that toast. Tell me, do
you actually know your Pushkin, or did you just study up before I arrived? Does it
really matter? So, this is what he does? He leaves the seduction to you. Isn't
there a... a word for that in English? Um... - For what? - "Pimping," yes? He's
pimping you out. How charming you are. Thank you.
The Nixon kids would bring their dates up this way. Kennedy probably used it for
similar reasons. Well, you know, now that I'm divorced, I don't have to sneak
anyone in and out of the palace. They can come through the front door. With
some dignity. Well, dignity's a bit overrated for a mistress, don't you think? Ah...
you know, a woman like your wife, for example, would certainly make it
worthwhile. Do you kiss the wife of every president you meet? Oh. Not every
president's wife looks like yours. I'd push him down the stairs and light his broken
body on fire just to watch it burn, if it wouldn't start a world war. - May I? - Of
course.
None of them understand, do they? What it takes to govern. They scream and
yell and stomp their feet, but if they had to spend just one day in our shoes, the
weight we carry on our shoulders... Like, um... the Middle East? Oh, I know why
we're here, smoking our cigars. - And? - You're not going to like it.
You're not even gonna give me a shot at winning in my own house? First rule of
diplomacy: stop while you're ahead, which is what I should've done, after that
third vodka of Petrov's.
You're trying to consolidate your foothold in the region. Hm? The Black Sea,
Kazakhstan, Chechnya, Crimea. So, please... don't insult me with peace Whatever
your strategic goals may be, the missile defense system is mine. Viktor, I invited

you to Washington with pure intentions, so that we could break bread and learn
to trust one another. Francis, I don't get softened up by a nice dinner and dancing
with a beautiful woman. You asked me what I want. Well... I told you. I'll tell you
what. It's my turn to get some sleep Let's attack all this with a fresh mind. We've
barely smoked our cigars. We're not men of excess, though, are we? Aren't we?
No, no. No, you're right. Enough smoke for one evening.
He's a thug. Smart, but he's still a thug. Don't cower to him. The most important
thing about the missiles is the scale-back, not the PR. My people would know I
walked away with something. And, by announcing it, I can keep you to your word.
I am more than meeting you halfway, Viktor. You see, Mr. President. I want the
Lexus. And you're trying to sell me a Lada. I'll have them bring your motorcade
around. But the... press conference. Oh. Right! I'd completely forgotten. But I
think we're gonna be okay without one today. Have a safe journey home, Mr.
President. Thank you for your hospitality, Mr. President.
But the demands that President Petrov made proves to me that peace is not a
priority for him. Peace should not have to be bought. Peace should be its own
reward, and we will achieve it, with or without him. hank you very much.
18
I am not here to defend any one person, but rather the office of the presidency
itself. We must hold everyone in government accountable to the law. We must
hold everyone in government accountable to the law. to erode constitutional
authority. We can prosecute presidents, but not the presidency. We have to
assume this is happening. We need to end her campaign before it begins.
Mr. Mahmoud, you may hate me. You may hate the office I hold. But here's the
reality: I must make decisions every day that I hope are just. I don't know right
from wrong all the time I wish I did. But what I can't be is indecisive. It says in the
Qur'an: "The taking of one innocent life is like the taking of all mankind." It also
says that "the saving of one life is like the saving of all mankind." I have a duty to
this nation, Mr. Mahmoud. I swore an oath. There's a fine line between duty and
murder. Only you have the power to stop what happened to me. The next time
you wield it... I hope you'll think twice. Yes, of course. Meechum!
We should get close to her, though. We should talk to her. - Extract something. She might recognize me. - I'll do it. - That makes me nervous. It's social
engineering. I'll just hack her that way. She won't suspect a thing.
If not, I'll stay. But, there's no rush. Must I destroy this man? Mr. President? No. I
won't. Excuse me? I won't stand by and watch you make this mistake. I've
thought this through. We're not friends, Robert. We don't know each other that
well. But I care about you. Because you served for more than 20 years on the
bench. You've established legal precedents that will outlive both of us. And...
maybe you can explain away yesterday as a senior moment. But what if another
moment happens that you can't explain away? What if somehow the news of
your illness leaks? Then every decision you've written will be called into question.
They'll be challenged. And a life's work will be undone in a heartbeat. Do you
have some ulterior motive here? Only your best interests. But why the urgency? I
want to protect you. Justice, I'm asking you, I'm pleading with you. Don't let

events get out of your control. Will you reconsider? I appreciate your concern, Mr.
President. Let me speak again to Ruth and I'll get back to you. Thank you, Justice.
- He has no grounds. - You disrespected the president, the office, and most
importantly, your fellow colleagues. - It wasn't a tough sell. - Then this becomes
my next story. Punishing a member of the press. Collusion. Pay for play. And I'll
deny. And do you think the head of the association is gonna admit anything? You
don't have any friends, Ayla, on either side of the fence. The president just made
a statement about free speech. Now you're gonna start kicking reporters out of
the White House? - No. Just you. - No, not just me! You're fucking with the second
largest daily in America. You can get rid of me, but you can't get rid of the
institution I work for. You done? Don't let your 15 minutes of power go to your
head, Seth. You can keep the plastic if you want... as a souvenir. That's all it's
good for, now.
The Democratic Party must step out of the shadow of scandal and redefine itself. I
want her here when she's done with this stunt.
And when he told me how you threatened him, I knew I had to run. Someone
needs to scrub the stink from this office. - I didn't threaten him. - What would you
call it? I was trying to save him, in the same way I'm trying to save you now. Once
the news of his Alzheimer's gets out, which it will, because no matter how much
we all try to lie about it, it's gonna leak can you imagine what that's going to do
to his reputation? He deserves better than that. And you deserve better than
being an also-ran. Help me convince him. Take the seat on the court where you
belong. Is this how you live with yourself? By rationalizing the obscene into the
palatable? I haven't excused you yet. See you in Iowa.
Hey. I just wanted to say, what you said... it really connected with me. - About
community. - Thank you. - Yeah. - I'm glad. - I'm Lisa. Hi. - Of course. Max. Hi. You're new. - It was my first time, actually. - Do you live around here? - Towson.
Just drove up. How did you find out about us? Online. Website. Yeah, I was surfing
around, and I was... I was looking for something and... - It's stupid. - No. No, no. Tell me. - Um... Okay, well, a few months ago, this girl... Um... The love of my life,
actually... - Breakup? - She just left me. Out of the blue. You know, one day she
just said it was over and that was it. Yeah. That's hard. I went through something
similar not that long ago. Oh, really? Sort of what I was talking about tonight with
the hard time I had been through. What happened? Oh... Ancient history. A guy
left you? - It was a woman. - Oh. I guess I'm not completely over it, but time
heals, you know? Mm-hmm. I gotta get home, but it was nice to meet you, Max.
Nice meeting you, Lisa.
You're forming your team. I want to be a part of it. - The real reason. - That is the
reason. He sent you. Don't lie to me. I've been out of the game for nine months,
Ms. Dunbar. I want to get back in. You're forming your team, and I want to get in
on the ground floor. The leadership isn't enough. You need the rank and file. Their
connections to county and municipal power brokers. The chiefs of a thousand
kingdoms in every primary from Iowa to Super Tuesda I worked in the whip's
office for ten years. I have files on every single member. What they want, who
they sleep with, what they eat for lunch. I can be valuable to you. How did you
know I was meeting with Giallo tonight? You rub shoulders with the leadership. I

rub shoulders with the people who work for them. Think about it, Ms. Dunbar.
That's all I ask.
Still riding the Bonneville? Sold the '67 for a Pipeburn. Beautiful bike.
You should take me for a spin sometime. I don't think so. They're a
death wish. At least you know you have a place in heaven. What's on
your mind, Mr. President? The burial the other day. You talked about
Abraham and Isaac. God giving up his only Son. Between you and me,
that's the same sermon I always use at Arlington. You put enough
soldiers in the ground, you get tired of writing new ones. - It was the
first time I had heard it. - Won't be the last. I want to understand what
justice is. That's a big one. I know. There's our justice, the kind men
create. We base it on things like the Ten Commandments. But those can
be read a million different ways. "Thou shalt not kill" seems pretty clear.
Who's to say? If we didn't kill, others would kill instead of us. There's a
lot of killing in the Bible. King David was a warrior. How do you reconcile
that with the laws that God gave Moses? Even those laws require
interpretation. There are two laws we have to remember above all else.
He tells us to love God and to love each other. You can't love the people
you kill. You sure as hell can. And you have to love the people who are
trying to kill you. Jesus loved the Romans. "Father, forgive them," he
said, "for they know not what they do." Why didn't he fight? Why did he
allow himself to be sacrificed? I ask myself that question a lot. I
understand the Old Testament God, whose power is absolute, who rules
through fear, but... him. There's no such thing as absolute power for us,
except on the receiving end. Using fear will get you nowhere. It's not
your job to determine what's just. It's not your place to choose the
version of God you like best. It's not your duty to serve this country
alone, and it better not be your goal to simply serve yourself. You serve
the Lord. And through him, you serve others. Two rules: Love God. Love
each other Period. You weren't chosen, Mr. President Only he was. May I
have a few moments? For myself. To pray. It's all yours. Love? That's
what you're selling? Well, I don't buy it. Is everything all right, sir? I was
praying and it just fell. Please have someone clean this up. Well, I've got
God's ear now.

19
There's no doubt it'll be challenged in the courts. Well, even so, by the time that
happens, people will see what America Works looks like. Tell me, in your legal
opinion... is there enough leeway here? Yes, the language is sufficiently vague.
If my people see me take the money they won't give us... well, I just won
reelection. This is why you put a brawler like Barney Hull in office, aside from
paying a debt. Add up 50 governors and 535 members of Congress you don't
come close to the gumption of one bold mayor. I want people registering for jobs
in every part of the city as soon as possible, before the court challenges bubble
up. What about one big tent right in front of the Capitol? Make Congress see the
people line up all the way back to the Lincoln Memorial. Can we do something by
July Fourth? You bring the fireworks, I'll bring the people.

People could die, Mr. President. People are dying because they don't have jobs.
Slower than a flood or an earthquake, but dying just the same. You can't compare
unemployment to a cat four hurricane. I came to your office because I want this
to remain your office. There's a reason three presidents have kept you here.
You're dedicated, you're relentless, you're exceptionally competent. If we have to
stretch dollars even further, you're the man to do it. It's either you or someone
far less experienced.
- That's right. - Sounds like it's more about money. It's about being valued. Twofifty and the points is a bargain. I want to work for you, just not as a beggar. We
don't trust you yet, Doug. We don't even halfway trust you, so you are a beggar.
And you shouldn't trust me... until I prove myself. That's a gamble you don't get
to take without putting chips on the table. Cynthia and I will discuss. I don't want
us to start making decisions from a position of weakness. That is how you lose. I
think we're inviting the fox into the hen house. Anyone who wants to be a mole
accepts the first offer without question. He's negotiating.
They're playing along because the US is pressuring them. But just one little thing
needs to go wrong, and you've got a tinderbox where everyone's holding
matches. So why is he following this course of action at all? Because he's smart. You just said-- - He's being too smart. If it pays off, hey, he wins a Nobel Prize.
But... if it backfires, he leaves himself wide open. And that's when you need to hit
him hard. A disastrous foreign policy that made the world more dangerous. And
he had his wife with zero foreign policy experience - lead the goddamn charge. I'd like to bring you aboard, Joe - When can you start? - I believe I already did. Let
me ask, who referred me? - You have quite a reputation. - Yeah, for being an
asshole. Somebody you respect must have recommended me highly. - A former
Underwood staffer. - I never worked with any of his people. Which is one of the
reasons he recommended you. Touch.
Well, they're already not happy. I spat in one eye, I might as well spit in the
other. Consider it done.
The president has built a culture of silence and fear. That can end with you. That
folder will speak louder than anything I could say. Two front page bylines on the
same day for Ms. Baldwin? You kicked out a pit bull and you let in a dragon. I
didn't think the Telegraph would send someone like her. Well, maybe you just
didn't think. You wanted me to implement discipline, sir. To send a message. And
so I did. Well, they've sent back an even stronger message, haven't they? I take
responsibility for that, sir, and I will do my best to keep her in line. Your best? It's
their top bureau chief. She's untouchable. I don't want to pretend that I can
control her 100 percent.
I'd say there's nine consultants in the country who truly know foreign policy. Me,
I'm number one. Me in a coma is number two. But that still leaves seven who are
cheaper. I value good counsel, and I'm smart enough to know what I don't know.
You can't just raid funds that Congress appropriated for a specific use, then use them however you want. - Clearly, I can. This is a direct
challenge to Congress, Mr. President Bob and I have agreed. Both
parties will fight you on this. Well, at least I'm cultivating
bipartisanship. Gentlemen, I don't want to do this, but what choice have
you left me? Our branch is here to check yours. If we didn't feel America

Works warranted taxpayer money, - then it's not fit to be law. - Now,
look. This is the first time that the leaders of both parties and not
because I didn't invite you, because you declined. So, now that we're
here, let's make the most of it. I'm willing to walk back on FEMA if we
can discuss putting AmWorks on the floor. You bullied us on the
Education Bill. - And the government freeze. It's not gonna work this
time. You watch it work and then tell me it didn't. We're drafting a law,
saying this use of the DRF is illegal. And who's going to enforce that
law? We were ready to impeach one president. We'll do the same with
you if necessary. And put Donald Blythe in this office? You know he's not
up for the job. Congress would get killed for malpractice. As crooked as
you may think I am, you know I can handle the pressure, and you know
Donald can't. So pass your law, I'll veto it. And when you overrule me in
the Senate, we'll let the third branch decide. Don't declare war on
Congress, Mr. President. Not on Congress. I'm declaring war on atrophy.
But these days, who could tell the difference?
When it gets here, I bring it into this room... with a paper towel draped over my
arm. Voil. Just like... room service. You don't let your kids eat pizza. Well,
because I've seen what it does to a carotid artery. - And you're not my kids. Mm...Do you want to get married? To you, or in general? I'm serious. So where'd
this come from? I want a husband. You want a wife. This works, the two of us,
don't you think? - It's very romantic. Aren't we past romance? I bought you a
ring. Why didn't you say anything? It's the element of surprise. That's kind of the
point, isn't it? It's in my glove compartment. I can go get it if you want. No, I want
you to order the pizza. We can do the whole ring thing tomorrow.
You need a salesman, not a novelist. "Whoever you are, whoever you think you
are, believe that you're also a silent princess. Your name is Ida. Your journey is
one through a forgotten landscape of twisting staircases and morphing castles, of
twisting staircases and morphing castles, within dimly-lit caverns cobwebbed with
ruins M.C. Escher could only grasp at in a dream state." I wasn't trying to sell
anything. Just describe my experience. That's exactly what I want you to do with
my story. No sales pitch, just your honest curiosity. Besides, these kinds of books
are always so boring, so safe. I want something different, something... unique.
Your voice. I don't even know if I believe in your program. Come with me. I want
to show you something. You build it and they come. Today, the Washington Mall is
the real Field of Dreams. Three thousand people have registered since we set up
shop this morning. Now that's what I call a Fourth of July party! And we're gonna
keep the party going 'round the clock, 24/7, till everyone in DC who wants a job
Have a look. - Do you see that line of people? - The AmWorks tent. It stretches
from there all the way to the Lincoln Memorial. They started lining up before
sunrise Thomas, at best, I'm going to be a footnote in history if I can't help those
people. At worst, I'll be a joke. I am those people. I want you to tell that story.
What do you say? - I don't know. - What's your gut say? That you don't add up,
and I'm intrigued. - But not sold. - Not yet. Well, I'll pay you well, and at the very
least, this sort of access is worth its weight in gold, isn't it? - How quickly would
you need the book? - By January. I've never written anything in less than a year.
Well, you don't strike me as someone who shies away from a challenge. I'd need
to be able to write it the way I want to write it. Meechum will show you out when
you're done. And I promise, if you say yes, you won't regret it. No writer worth his

salt can resist a good story, just as no politician can resist making promises he
can't keep.
At least he's doing something. Walker didn't do shit. I think we replaced a dud
with an atom bomb. And now we have to fight to maintain it. The freedom to
work. The freedom to live with dignity. Thank you, and God bless the United
States of America.
Ch 6
Is it Kara? Kara? What? You should ask her out. I know she'd say yes. It'd be good
for you.
Meet new people. I can't. I don't trust myself yet. What do you mean? Hey, Max.
Tell me. You promise you won't judge? I won't, I promise. Well, after she left, there
were a lot of nights of drugs and women. And some of the women, I don't even
remember. And Kara's a nice girl, so... - But you're not that person anymore. There were some dangerous situations. It was all really fucked up and I wasn't
always safe. - Well, have you gotten tested? - No. Well, then you need to be
tested.
Hm. But... that brings us to the elephant in the room. - Missile defense. - Mm-hm.
- Tell me your concerns. - [knock on door] Your wife values privacy. Excuse me?
We were talking missile defense. Why did you bring up Claire? She's... talking
privately to Corrigan. - It's no matter. - Is there something wrong? I hope not. That's all it is.
He wanted to come with us, but that wasn't possible, for obvious reasons. I
promised to call after I saw you. I was thinking... you'd call instead. From Air Force
One. He'll understand. He misses you, Michael. I miss him. I miss a lot of things.
More than two square feet of sunlight. But it's the life we chose. It's what our
bond is built on. John has been very vocal back home. All he talks about is your
release. You're causing him pain. And you don't have to. - And he didn't have to
marry me. - [sighs] - That's selfish. - Maybe. But so is contradicting everything I
believe in just to get out of this cell. I think what you're doing is more selfish. It's
about ego. Proving something to yourself. And a man back home is hurting
because of it. John is weak. He'd say the statement in a heartbeat if he spent
more than a few days in here, which is why I'm here and he's not. If he thinks I'm
being selfish, so what? Either he accepts it or he doesn't. Isn't that what marriage
is about? Accepting your partner's selfishness? You of all people should
understand. You know nothing about marriage. You think it's about... sacrifice? I
think it's about respect. And you're not respecting his pain. - His pain doesn't
matter. - How can you say that? Because mine doesn't either. You know what I've
been asking myself ever since the hunger strike? Am I truly willing to die for this?
I don't know the answer to that question. But at least I have something that I care
enough about to even ask the question. Have you asked that of yourself? - What
are you willing to die for? - [banging on door] Please inform the president I won't
be leaving until Mr. Corrigan comes with me. We can't have the First Lady
staying-- You're not going to forcibly remove me. So, please, do as I ask.
I'm positive. [stammering] I just I can't-- I can't be alone right now. Come with
me. Com e with me. Surprise, surprise. You're on the phone again. I'm on my time

now, not yours. Well, you're making great progress. And when you're fully
recovered, you know, we'll have that cell phone surgically removed from your ear.
My ex-wife's nephew is gay, the one who is basically like a son to me. Personally,
I don't care. So if you don't care, let's haul him out and put him on the plane.
Look, I don't want our deal to fall apart any more than you do. Your wife was right
on the phone. But there is more than just our deal for me to consider. I need to
show strength. No one's going to see this as a weakness. On the contrary, you'll
be applauded for letting him go. By who? Hm? The West? You don't understand
Russia, Mr. President If people don't like the job you're doing, they vote you out of
office. If they don't like the job I'm doing, they topple statues. Blood is spilled.
Chaos takes over. Is the gay propaganda law barbaric? Yes. Of course it is. But
religion, tradition, for most of my people, it's in their bones. This law was passed
for them. I have to represent my people the same way you do. And if there is no
cost to Corrigan's actions, many of my people will feel betrayed. There won't be
a revolution because you freed one man. Revolution sneaks up on you,
one small step at a time. I don't take chances, even with the smallest of
steps.
You don't have that option either, do you? How do you mean? Well, if you wanted
something else, that would be really bad for business. You should eat. Said the
snake to Eve. Eat your apple. The world won't end. They will not lay a finger on
my wife. You'd actually prefer that, wouldn't you? So you could tell the world we
dragged the First Lady out by her hair. I'm finding it more and more difficult to
tolerate your paranoia. I could say the same of your lies. When I lie to you, you'll
never know it, and it will be for a good reason. Corrigan doesn't fall into that
category. I should never have invited you here. You and I can work together. This
afternoon is proof. I would've been better off holding my ground. And forcing us
to pass the resolution? The United Nations? They mean nothing to me. If they
meant nothing to you, you would have held your ground. But you want to be
respected abroad as much as you are at home. And I came here out of respect,
Viktor. And I sympathize with the situation you're in. That we're both in. Let's not
let Michael Corrigan dictate the course of nations. Can we at least discuss what a
statement from me might look like?
Michael, let me tell you what's going to happen if you refuse to make
this statement. You'll help no one. In fact, life will get worse for the
others you were arrested with. Petrov will feel embarrassed. He will
arrest more people. He will pass worse laws. He's not going to let some
American homosexual dictate his policy. This man is ruthless. You think
he's gonna become reasonable suddenly when all of this falls apart?
You're being naive! And you're letting other people suffer because of it.
Don't undo what you've fought so hard for. You think you can shame me.
But you can't. I'm giving you the truth. I don't care how that makes you
feel. But do yourself the favor of hearing what I said. - I heard you. - I
hope so. I can't betray myself. What would I be then? You'd be a
politician. And that's what you are. Let the others do all the yelling and
screaming. You want change? Then learn how to compromise. - Be a
fucking adult about this, Michael. - I need to think. Okay? I need time.
The plane leaves tomorrow. - Clear my head. - I'm not leaving here
without you.

I know you're angry. You should be. But I had to do it. Is this some sort of
apology, or you need to get something off your chest? I want you to try
and understand. Understand? - What you did was beyond-- - I know.
You're not only the First Lady, and an ambassador, you're also my wife. In what order? - Oh, come on, Claire. I said what I said for him. Not for myself, not
for us. I felt we owed him more than a few false words. So you want me to forgive
you? To say that it was okay? - No. - Because I can't do that. - I'm not asking you
to. - Then why are we even discussing it?! - Because I want you to know why. - I
don't care why. I don't care what your reasons are. that you should have
sabotaged a peace plan we spent months on! It was a political mistake. Yes, I
admit that. But if I had said nothing, - his death would have meant nothing. - No.
Not death. Don't give him that. - Suicide. - No. Something undeniable. I
was not gonna try and deny it. - I don't even understand that. - If you'd
give me a chance. I gave you a chance with the recess appointment,
with the resolution, with handling Corrigan. He didn't have a choice,
Francis. We cornered him. - He did have a choice. - Not in his mind. No
one forced him to protest in Moscow. And we sure as hell didn't ask him
to tie your scarf around his neck! If you had spoken to him... and heard
what he had to say-- Oh, what, I would have had some moral epiphany? Yes, you would have. - I don't think so. Because I'm the President of the
United States and I can separate the big from the small. He wasn't
small. He was a coward and I'm glad he's dead. He had more courage
than you'll ever have. Do you really want to discuss courage, Claire?
Because anyone can commit suicide, or spout their mouth in front of a
camera. But you wanna know what takes real courage? Keeping your
mouth shut, no matter what you might be feeling. Holding it all together
when the stakes are this high. We're murderers, Francis. No, we're not.
We're survivors. If we can't show some respect for one brave man and still
accomplish what we set out to do, - then I'm disappointed in both of us. - I
should've never made you ambassador. I should've never made you president.
[door slides open, slides closed] What are you looking at?

17.5
I only have a few minutes. You singled me out today on purpose. - What? - The
cabinet meeting. If I'm gonna invite you to cabinet meetings, there's not gonna
be any kid gloves. Don't make it sound like a favor. You wanted to be there. I
agreed. Well, so I could be informed and do my job. Everyone in that room is
judged by what they bring to the table. What you brought to the table was
amateurish. Both Cathy and I proposed that plan. I fault her as much as you.
You're making this too personal. It is personal. I think you're punishing me for
what happened in Russia. Oh, come on. Well, you said it on the plane. Appointing
me was a mistake. Yeah, you said far worse things to me. Yes, and I've gone out
of my way to put that fight behind us. Oh, really? Like with Thomas? When you
screamed at us for waking you up. - I didn't scream. - It was embarrassing. Who
cares what he thinks? He was our guest and you walked in there like-- I think
you're searching for things that aren't there and ignoring the things that are, like
this photograph flinching nonsense. Oh, Jesus. - Do you want me to resign,
Francis? - Don't be ridiculous. - [flicking lighter] - Just say it. You never wanted me
to be ambassador. You remember what you said to me on the plane? You should

have never made me president. I was upset. I didn't mean it. You did mean it. You
think you made me. No, I don't. I think we're a team, actually. Well, we're not a
team at the moment. I can't believe we've become this. - Become what? - Like
everyone else.
All of us must face this truth eventually. And when we do, we must hand the
baton to the young. To those who have the strength to carry on our work when
we are gone. Here's another truth: Social Security is dying. Now in its 80th year,
it must give way to a new, younger, stronger plan for the future. That plan is
America Works. In Washington DC alone, we've managed to reduce
unemployment by over a third and put 25,000 people to work. If we can
accomplish so much in so little time here in Washington, imagine what we could
accomplish if Congress funded America Works nationwide. We wouldn't be talking
about thousands of jobs. We'd be talking about millions. Later this afternoon, I
will visit FDR's memorial to pay my respects to the man who ushered in Social
Security 80 years ago. We honor the dead for giving us the world we inherited.
However, we must recognize we are doomed if we allow the dead to govern us.
Thank you, and God bless the United States of America.
My husband formally approved our own humanitarian package for eighty million.
Zimbabwe will be withdrawing the amendment tomorrow. And when the
resolution goes to a vote, I expect Israel to support it like the loyal ally she is. Not
lie to us. That's not the way to solicit our support. I'm not soliciting. I'm
demanding. I feel sorry for you, Claire. Your husband sends you to talk
tough. But as soon as things go wrong in the Jordan Valley, he'll turn his
back and leave Israel to clean up the mess. He doesn't have the muscle.
He can't even get Congress to work with him. Or back you up after you
call out Petrov. He turned his back on you just like he will on us. My
husband is the bravest and most resolute man I know. He will succeed in
this plan. Brave? I served in Jordan Valley. As did the President and the
Foreign Minister. Has he? You held a gun and somebody told you where
to stand. Don't confuse that with the burden the Commander in Chief
faces. Francis has given the order to kill. He's buried soldiers he's put
into harm's way. And every day, he wakes up bearing responsibilities
you can't possibly imagine. They would crush you if they fell on your
shoulders. So you talk to your superiors. And when the amendment is
withdrawn tomorrow, you will commit to supporting the resolution.
18.
Why do they all support this emergency bill? If you pass it, I'll veto it, but there's
no reason we have to turn this into a pissing match. You know that we have the
votes to override your veto. It passes in ten days without a signature, regardless.
The only question is whether you're gonna sign it before that hurricane hits, or
watch it become law after thousands have died. Henry... I sat with Hector dozens
of times at this very table and we were always able to work out our differences,
to negotiate. This isn't Hector's office anymore. Or his table. Gentlemen, is there
no room for a compromise? - No. - Bob? No, Mr. President. It's going wide in an
hour. Seven governors, all up and down the East Coast. They're demanding that
you sign the bill. - Who tipped you off? - Jim Matthews' flack. Matthews is turning
on us? What's it say? That's enough. I don't need to hear any more. See how
many governors you can get on the phone in 30 minutes. - Yes, sir. - I've got

something else for you, sir. The AmWorks case studies. These are your ten for the
day. - I don't have time for that now. - You should see this top file. Freddy's
working as a dishwasher.
Sir, have you given any thought to simply signing the bill that Congress passed
last night? How many of you think I should sign the bill? Well, surely, some of you
think I should. You know, I think too often, the people in this room are afraid of
upsetting me. And that's my fault. I discourage dissent when it doesn't go with
the things that I want. So, I want you to be honest with me. I won't hold it against
you. How many of you think I should sign the bill? Thank you. You have all worked
very hard to get AmWorks up and running. I don't want to sign its death warrant
until we have exhausted every resource available to us first. So I need every
department to draft a proposal of what they could do in response to the
hurricane. And if we still fall short, I'll sign the bill. Is that okay with everyone?
Let's aim for the day after tomorrow. Thank you all very much.
"Critics have been harsh. And yet most have stopped short of naming
Underwood what he truly is: a tyrant." [Tom] "What drove Napoleon to keep
marching toward Moscow? Or Hannibal to cross the Alps?" [Kate] "The warning
signs are there. It's our responsibility to heed them." [Tom] "What kept a young
Frank Underwood swimming onward? And what kept him from drowning?" How
did Seth learn this? - Jackie's comms director. - And this happened last night? From what I can gather. - So why am I just hearing about it now? - I didn't hear
about it before. - She was trying to keep it a secret. But you're supposed to be
keeping tabs on her. The fact that you didn't know, and only found out from
Seth-- I'm not in Iowa, sir. I'm here running your staff. Just because Jackie and I
have a personal history doesn't mean I know her every movement. We are not
talking about your ex-girlfriend. We're talking about my running mate. And if she
can't be trusted, I can't force her to reveal things she doesn't want to. You
convinced me to make the deal with her in the first place. We needed
information. She had access. And now she's lying to us. Maybe you should speak
with her before we consider this a crisis. I don't like your tone, Remy. - You're
blowing this out of proportion. - Watch yourself. When I worked for you in
Congress, you always told me to be straight up with you. I wasn't the president
then. So you just want me to apologize and be a yes-man? I want you to treat this
office with respect. You owe your staff that same respect. I gave you a position in
the White House when no one would touch you. I don't owe you a damn thing.
How long you gonna hang that over my head? - Oh, it's like you want me to fire
you. - You couldn't, and you know it. Not right now. Seth and I are the only two
soldiers you have. Get Jackie on the phone. - Yes, sir.
"On another day, with warmer water, with the current carrying him, he might
have made it. But on this day, he would only make it halfway before his arms
gave out and the numbness overtook him, before the coast guard pulled him out
of the water despite his protests. Was he reckless? Was he foolish? Possibly. One
thing can't be denied, however. What others saw as impossible, he refused to
believe as such. The water proved him wrong. He fell far short of the other shore.
And yet he made the attempt. And that... is everything." Nobody cares about an
idea. They might care about a man with an idea. I only care about the man. I
think it might be the best thing I've written in years. It could also be utter and
complete shit. But when I can't tell the difference, it's usually a good sign. I just
don't want to lose sight of the bigger goal. I don't know any other way to write it.

[sighs] If you want something different, now's the time to find somebody else. No,
I want you to finish it. Yes, but it's not just about the book. It's about putting
people back to work. People can't work if they're dead. [Frank] Well, I'm gonna
obviously be very occupied by this hurricane for the foreseeable future. - He's not
foolish. - That wasn't my point. I wouldn't take a bullet for a man who was. Let's
go, your car's waiting.
I want to be president one day. - Well, that's never gonna happen. - But he said I
could be. Listen up, boy. He lied to you. The truth is, you ain't never gonna be
president. It's just like them basketball players you got posters of. They say you
can do anything, be a superstar, too. But they were born to be seven feet tall and
if they wasn't, tell me what would they have? Nothing. Half of them can't even
read a damn book. No, boy, this place ain't for you and me. It's good to have
dreams, just so long as they're not fantasies. You let anybody sell you that shit,
it's your own damn fault. - You hear me? - Yeah, I hear you, Pop.
I read it in college. Did it change your life? That's what you hear all day long, isn't
it? If I still got recognized on the street, which I don't. Well, can I buy you a drink?
Getting me drunk won't work. You came out to meet me here. I owe you one. Why
don't I buy you a drink? How about we have a few? A few. I can live with that.
The biggest casualty to Faith was not life or property, however, but rather
President Underwood's controversial America Works plan, which Congress
defunded in order to free up resources for storm-related disaster relief. The
president himself signed the emergency appropriation into law after facing
immense pressure from both parties and the media. Why? Because I wouldn't
give you a quote? - No, it was a whole hurricane metaphor. - Hm... Kind of takes
the wind out of the sails if there's no hurricane. Well... at least you got laid. Yep.
That... that's poetic. Yeah. I'm a writer.
Come over here, take a look out the window. You see that man working over
there? - Mm-hm. That's Freddy Hayes. - The ribs guy? - He's a groundskeeper
now. - That's generous of you. No, it wasn't. It's my job. You wrote that I refuse to
see the impossible as impossible. Freddy is one job. I have ten million more to go.
That's my story and that's why you were right. So you wanna get back to work?
I'm in. Now? I don't have my notebook. Oh, um... The pen I signed the bill with. All
right. Let's do it. I never tried to swim to Fort Sumter. Thomas probably knows I
made it up, but he wrote about it anyway because he understands the greater
truth: imagination is its own form of courage. Let's talk more about that swim. I
really did come this close to drowning.

19
You asked to be on the ticket, Jackie. It's been non-stop resistance. If you don't
want to support the president, you shouldn't want to be his number two. I'm sick
of pulling teeth. You're right. I'll do what I can. Jackie... I didn't mean to snap. I
know it's hard having a presence here and campaigning at the same time. I'm
sure it's tough on Alan and the kids, too. Alan's been a big help, actually. I'm glad
he's stepping up, giving you the support you need. I thought I would hate it, the
whole marriage thing. But it's nice. When I can get home, everyone around the
table. I even cook sometimes. - Badly, but they indulge me. - [chuckles] No. - I

have my June Cleaver moments. - Apron and all? - Don't push it.- [laughs] I can't
remember the last time I had a home-cooked meal. - Session's about to start. Yeah.
Sir, I know you have a million things on your mind, Sir, I know you have a million
things on your mind, but I would just love to talk to you about how to modernize
the food-processing industry in Iowa. Please, slit my wrists with his butter knife.
We can't talk election on the plane, Harlan. That's an FEC no-no. [Frank] This isn't
about the campaign. We're talking about the economy, not the caucus. Right,
Harlan? That's right.
Baldwin was right. Those eight bodies give Petrov options. He's not
shedding tears, he's popping champagne corks. I can hear them.
Mr. Danton, I'm Lieutenant Hixson. I'm very sorry for this misunderstanding.
Watch your head. I hope you accept my apology on their behalf. - They said I was
stopped for speeding. - Yes. When they encounter someone without a license and
registration-- Write up the ticket. You don't have to worry about that, sir. You're
free to go. If I was speeding, give me the damn ticket. That's really not necessary
after everything we put you through. Lieutenant. Hey. I'd invite you up, but the
kids, they're-- [laughs] We're bringing them to Iowa this trip and it's a total shitshow. I didn't come here to talk to you about the campaign. I probably... you
know, I shouldn't have just shown up like this, but... Here. Come this way. It's
stupid. I don't even know why I came over. Did something happen? I got pulled
over. For speeding. Things got out of hand. A nigger in a nice car. - [laughs] Jesus. I left my wallet at work. When I tried to tell the guy who I was, he didn't
believe me, so... I don't know. I didn't believe me. There I was with my hands in
cuffs and it was like, uh... It was like I was outside of myself. I could've been
anyone. I wasn't me. - Does that make any sense? - You got rattled. No, it's not
that. I look at you and Alan, and even Frank and Claire. This happened and I
didn't have anyone to tell about it. You have me, right? I'm glad you came over.
It's not fair. Intruding on you like this. If I thought you were intruding, I wouldn't
have come downstairs. I'm sorry. I'm sorry. I-- [sighs] You still mean a lot to me. I
am there for you, as your friend. You should go back up. Finish packing.
Sir? I got a voicemail from Doug last night. - He said his mom died. - My
God, that's awful. Except Julia Stamper passed away ten years ago. I
know, I was at the funeral. Send some flowers. Actually, get Doug in
here. I'd like to give my condolences in person.
How can I help you, Doug? I can't go to rehab. - Just not another hospital, or... Okay. I just... I can't... I can't do it. We'll figure something out. I'm not Peter
Russo. I won't go like he did. No, you won't. You're going to get better, Doug. I
promise you that. Yes, send Meechum in here. There's an envelope on my
desk. I need it to be incinerated. Yes, sir. And then I need you to take
Doug home. Come on, Doug, it's time to go. You stay with him until we
figure out what's next. Yes, sir. - Some privacy, please. - This is Heather
Dunbar. - [operator] I'll connect you momentarily. [Frank] Heather? Mr.
President? Doug Stamper is my friend, and you came very close to
killing him. - Excuse me? - You're aware he's an alcoholic? - Yes. - And
how serious his injuries were. - Mr. President-- - But you still put him to
work A man who's trying to recover, who's trying to get back his life. Did

you honestly think that he could handle that? Douglas came to us. And
you should've turned him away if you had one ounce of decency. What's
happened? Is he okay? You don't have the right to ask me that question.
And if you do anything that endangers his health again I swear to God, I
will put you in your fucking grave.
22
Let people go..
Hey, listen, uh, we run a half-price special for Commanders-in-Chief. So, uh... if
you're ever in Colorado with some time on your hands... Well, I hope the same
goes for ex-presidents, too. Nope. Only sittin' ones. So you better win that damn
election. I'll do my best. Nice talking to you, Tim. You too, Frank.
Now would be the time..
Focus on Congress. Yeah, but you want more than that. I could spend
more time with you and the kids. Well, I don't want a wife who's
miserable because she turned her back on the White House. Look... The
thing about surgery is, once you're in, you're in. There's a beating heart
in front of you. Someone's life. There's no room for doubt. So, whatever
goes wrong... say hemorrhage or a blood clot, you deal with it. You don't
get to walk away. But that's life or death. This isn't. It is for you.
I will be flying through it, nevertheless. Shoot me down, if you wish, because
nothing can stop me from standing side by side with my countrymen. I will
embrace the men who serve this country, because I am Russian, and Russians...
do not abandon their own.
Your plan failed. I'm sorry. It's my fault. I approved it. But now, I have to fix it.
Why won't you place faith in a diplomatic solution? This is diplomacy. Sometimes
it comes down to two men in a room. I have no faith in the UN anymore. I do have
faith in my ability to negotiate with this man. Francis, I know you value my
opinion. We have both put a great deal of effort and thought into how to handle
Russia. I'd like for this to be a decision we make together, - instead of an
impulsive response-- - [knocking on door] - Not right now. - [Remy] Petrov's in the
air. Get Admiral Dale on the line. Claire, I value your opinion. I just don't agree
with it this time.
This could be seen as an election stunt. He's trailing Dunbar in the polls,
so he wants to save the day. I guarantee you this is no stunt. The president is
taking extraordinary
measures to end this crisis. You can take your vest off now,
Mr. President. - We're safe here. - You trust these walls? If you're frightened, you
shouldn't have come. When I was in the KGB, I spent six months in Afghanistan.
This place is a palace compared to the hole in the ground I lived in. Here. You
should stay hydrated. I brought a shipment of water in on my plane. - Thank you.
Well, this is better for pictures. How do you mean? Well, if you flew into a
paradise, wouldn't be as effective, now, would it? You do have a flair for the
theatrical. I can say the same about you, showing up on my doorstep like this
This isn't your doorstep. You're squatting where you shouldn't be. I don't think my

men will see it like that. Do your men know that you're responsible for killing their
comrades? Accusations. That's how you plan to convince me? What do you
require to pull out of the valley? That your troops leave as well, and the entire
peacekeeping operation. As we agreed to twice already. That's when we were
making an entirely different deal. The main difference now is that we're both
standing in the desert, and you can't leave with nothing to show but sand in your
shoes. I'll agree to the scale-back. Same terms as before. How soon can you
mobilize a withdrawal? Well, the moment UN forces begin to pull out, we will do
the same. I've had the Pentagon come up with an exit plan that we can put into
effect as early as tomorrow. As for the rest of the UN forces, Well, yes, she would
probably make the call on my behalf. I don't think she should. You think I should
make the call? More than that. I think she should be gone. Gone in what way?
Gone from these negotiations? As ambassador. My final condition. That cannot be
on the table. It is. And it's non-negotiable.
How could you say no to your own wife? But she's blinding you. - I'm doing you a
favor. - You are being petty. The SEAL team you sent. Look how easily we
manipulated her. Moryakov didn't have to work too hard. Did we blow up our own
men? Maybe we did. Maybe we didn't. But we made her believe that we did. And
she convinced you. Now, wouldn't you call that blindness? You want to kill me
now. I can see it. I read an amusing article about, um... a Civil War re-enactor,
who said that your great-great-grandfather killed a Yankee soldier with his bare
hands. I pulled the knife away and slit his throat. Yes, I know, you've told that
story dozens of times to the press. The part I don't tell is that after I slit his
throat, I kept going. We strapped his head to a donkey so it would carry it back to
his village. I've killed a man with my bare hands. It wasn't make-believe. Do you
think you're capable? I think you are. You're ruthless. Like me. Sometimes we
must be ruthless with those who hate us. And sometimes we must be ruthless
with those we love. I don't see why Claire means so much to you. Because she
means so much to you. And if you do this, I will know you're serious.
It's just my freedom's important to me. [laughs] I'm freer than you are, pal. I
stayed in Columbus because I liked it, not because anybody made me. I chose to
put down roots. You've always been running rom something. Hey, I don't judge
you. Don't judge me. Listen to your big brother for a second. No, last thing I need
is a lecture right now. During your whole recovery, all you kept talking about was
getting back to work. Over a month I've been here, using all my vacation time
and then some. If you don't want to be here, then maybe you should go home.
It's not about that, Doug. I'm here because you're family. Because you're more
important than work. Hey... If I lost my job because of you, I'd find another one.
What do you have? Frank Underwood? You don't even have that. You got two
pictures on your fridge, and they're of my kids. That's not freedom.
More formative for you than for me. I learned how to march and shoot a
gun,that's about it. Yeah? Why's that? You go from turning tricks to being on the
bestseller list before you can legally drink, it messes with you. You told me your
friend was the one who, uh... I lied. Why? You ashamed? First time I did it, I was
scared out of my mind. And then you wrote about it. When I got famous... I
betrayed her. How? I'm not asking as your biographer. I'm asking as your friend.
Are we friends? We could pretend to be. This isn't pretend. You're hurting. She's
hurting more. Everyone's hurting. Go home. You should get some sleep. And so
should I.

11
Thank you for taking your role so seriously, Donald. You should consider a career
on the stage. Because he sure as hell isn't gonna be on my ticket.
Alan sends his kids to private school. Yeah, but they're not your kids. They're my
step-kids. And that makes me a hypocrite. Is that really what you're concerned
about? Being a hypocrite? It's my family. Oh, trust me, they'll understand the
moment they step into the White House. Jackie, I really shouldn't have to
convince you to do what it takes to get a set of keys. I'll be the pit bull, Mr.
President. Thank you, Jackie.
This nomination comes down to one word: vision. I believe that I have shown a
clear vision to this country with America Works, the most comprehensive jobs
program in nearly a century. We showed it could work in Washington DC. We need
now to take what we did there and spread it nationwide, so that the American
dream can become the American reality. But that vision isn't enough on its own.
You need someone with experience to make it happen. And between my time in
Congress and now at the White House, I have more experience than both of my
opponents combined. And, uh, when you hire someone for a job, are you gonna
hire someone with 30 years' experience, or someone with less than ten or
someone with no experience at all? Where I come from down south, we call that
as clear as a glass of moonshine. Vision and experience are exactly what America
needs. Unfortunately, he has the wrong vision and horrendous experience. You
can call America Works visionary, but in truth, it is just an ultra-conservative
agenda that's been around for decades. Dismantle the safety net and hang
people out to dry. As for the president's experience, he was in the leadership
during one of the most ineffective decades in Congressional history As president,
he has failed at everything he's done. America Works was illegal in the minds of
many legal experts, myself included. His Jordan Valley plan was a disaster. If
that's what you call experience, you're not just padding the rsum, you are
fabricating it. President Underwood isn't presenting us with a vision, he is
convincing himself of his own delusion. Now, my vision is to tackle corporate
greed, raise pay for those who need it most, and create jobs by growing the
economy, not robbing people of their retirement and health care. My experience
is 20 years defending the Constitution. You know when I take my presidential
oath, I will mean every word of it.
I'm not comfortable with the dynamic we've established. What dynamic is that?
The leash you have me on. How I'm supposed to roll over and do any trick you
want. You're taking me for granted. What, am I supposed to be, uh... appreciative
of your lackluster enthusiasm? How fortunate I am to have you "sort of" on my
team? You're not "happy" with our dynamic? Well, I'm not happy with your
attitude. If anything, you're taking me for granted. - Sir-- - We had a deal, Jackie.
And I am perfectly willing to hold up my end of the bargain. But do not be under
any illusions. This is not a partnership of equals. Nothing close to it. If you are to
be my vice president, you will do what I ask. And we will not have this
conversation every time you feel uncomfortable with what I ask you to do, or how
I choose to conduct myself. That's our dynamic. - Are we still sticking to the
timeline? - I'm sorry, I couldn't quite hear you. Are we still sticking to the
timeline? I drop out next week? I see no reason why you shouldn't. - Thank you,
Mr. President. - See you in Iowa.

- May we speak privately? - Oh, let me let y'all be. - You're in the middle of your
story. - Sir, if you don't mind. - Is it classified? - No, it is not. Then talk. Jackie just
stopped by my office. She's upset. I think we need to take her views more into
consideration. - She's being ridiculous. - I think she made some valid points. Who
do you work for, me or her? I'm just trying to communicate her concerns. She'd
better get in line and so had you. I'm never gonna win if I have to spend my time
explaining myself to my subordinates. - Look, let me let you-- - No, no. Now,
Freddy, sit down. Do you remember when we talked about how you treat your
staff? You want to win? You sure as hell won't do it without any of them. You keep
on like this, you won't have any of them left. Are you talking about loyalty? The
only brand of that I accept is unconditional. - Anything less is a-- - Y'all should put
this on pay-per-view. But you. You a big guy. But this sucker, I've seen him go
through a rack of ribs like it was wet tissue. - Who'd you put your money on? - Oh,
I'm not gonna fall into that trap. - You. [laughs] - Sir? It's your wife. - She passed
out giving blood. - What? I'll take it in my private study. Don't do no good callin' a
man out like that. It's like... blamin' a snake for having fangs. - I couldn't help
myself. - Mmm... - Could you do me a favor? - What's that? Cover for me. I got
work to do and he needs company. Back at the ribs joint, I could just walk back in
the kitchen when I got tired of hearing him talk. - Yeah. I'll tell him your boss
came over. - Thank you, brother.
My guess is she'd be even more embarrassed if she had to cancel her events.
This isn't about how she feels. This is about what's best for her. She doesn't need
a doctor. She needs you. What do you mean? She said some things, about every
seven years. About being in limbo, on the edge of a bridge. Listen, just because I
may have shared with you a few things about our marriage does not give you the
right to interfere with it. Now, please have her call me when she's ready.
All I need to do and what I encourage all of my supporters to do is to help elect
Heather Dunbar to the White House. - Judas bitch. - While I may be ending my
camp-- I'm just pissed off. I'm sorry if I offended. Yeah, I wonder what she offered
her. Nothing. Yeah, right. I know for a fact. You knew about this? You should call
the president.
12
You're in an intimate relationship with Kate Baldwin, isn't that correct? I've never
said anything because I presume that you can separate your personal life from
our professional arrangement. But before you start getting any reckless ideas,
why don't you just remember one thing: I own this material. And if you attempt to
share it with anybody, and I mean one single word, litigation will be the least of
your worries. I mean, after all, I don't think either of us wants any controversy
about the authorship of your first book. Do we?
The one you asked Doug to destroy. I wouldn't be so certain that he did it So...
One of who? The men. In their smoky back rooms. And even if there was a
journal... you don't have it in you. Make whatever assumption you want. Well,
Robert was right. I would offer you the nomination. You should take the advice of
a smart man. Three days, Mr. President. Think about Claire.Show me out, please.
She can go after me all she wants, but she goes after Claire, I'll slit her fucking
throat in broad daylight.

How do I know there aren't other copies? - Where do you keep your
cigarettes? - In the bowl up there. Why didn't you destroy it when I first
asked you to? I don't know. Something stopped me. Maybe I would need
it one day. For you. To prove my loyalty. You told her. I'd hardly call that
loyalty. I had to show her I was serious. The journal was a way to do
that. I never came close to putting it in her possession. Anything else I
should know? I'm sober. It's been 87 days. I meant in regards to Dunbar.
It is related. This is a tight race. Make me your Chief of Staff. You
promised. You promised there'd be a place for me here when I was
ready. That was before you fell off the wagon and walked in here with
that journal. I've made mistakes. I've fallen down more than once, and
you've always been there to pick me up. But you've been falling down
for the past year, too, and you need someone to pick you up this time.
It's not Remy. It's not Seth. It's me, Frank. And how can I know I can
ever trust you again? Because I just lit two million dollars on fire. Doug? - I have an update regarding the journal. - What is it? - A
message from the president. I have only one thing to say. Go fuck
yourself. Christ, that felt good. Start putting together a shortlist of
potential nominees for the court - You already...? - I'm on it, sir.
Claire has been doing a lot of events, that is true, as she has in every campaign
that I have ever run. I'm hoping, I suppose my strategy is that if the American
people well, they might think I'm smart enough to be President of the United
States. As for the ambassadorship, that was entirely her decision, not mine. She
enjoys campaigning, and I'm looking forward to getting back to Iowa with her a
little later today.
We've been lying for a long time, Francis. Of course we have. Imagine what the
voters would think if we started telling the truth. Not to them. To each other.
Good for me. A little rough for my mom, though. She's not used to
seeing me more than two days in a row. She actually ran out of
questions. I'm jealous. Have a seat. It's been nonstop here for me. Ah...
A recruiting session? You can't be surprised. I was hoping you just
wanted to see my face. We can't offer you as much as you made at
Glendon Hill, but we can offer you a lot more than you made at the
White House. I'm not interested. That was fast. Even for you. - Where'd
you land? - Nowhere. I'm out, Jackie. No more politics. You know you
don't mean that. It's who you are. That's what I thought, too, for a long
time. I don't even know if I'll stay in DC. What are you gonna do? That's
the best part. I have no idea. I'll save you the trouble of trying to
convince me.
Welcome back, Doug. Congratulations. - Thank you. - I just wanted to get a heads
up on when you'd like to make the formal announcement. Let's do it after the
caucus. I don't want to draw any attention away from the campaign. You probably
shouldn't attend the press briefing today. No. I'll take off before then. Here, you
should see this. This just came out ten minutes ago. Have you shown the
president? I drafted up some talking points. I figured you'd want to brief him. I'll
be in my office. Seth. The president told me you asked for the job. Yeah, I didn't
realize that you were in contention. I don't want you to resent me. Hey, I'm a
professional. Let me know if you want any changes made to the talking points.

I'm sure they're good. You can share 'em with the president. You don't want to
look 'em over first? No. I trust your judgment.
I can't stop thinking about you. You're married, Jackie. For the wrong reasons. I
thought you loved each other. Not like this. I'm not the person I want to be. You're
who you need to be. Look at what you've achieved. But you did it. You gave it all
up. In a heartbeat. We're different people. You should go. Put this behind you. I
guess it was naive to think that we could remain close. So this is it? Yeah. It is.
Jackie?
13

Well, Iowa has spoken. And they have spoken so loud, that I don't even need a
microphone. Listen, I wanted to come down here to our campaign headquarters
in Des Moines, not go to some fancy hotel ballroom like you know who, and say to
all of youwho worked day in and day out, on our behalf for this campaign, in
every corner of this state... It's because of you that we brought it home tonight!
Now, I know you're all wondering where Claire is. Some of you may know she's
been a little under the weather. She's from Texas. She doesn't understand these
Iowa winters you have. But she's on the mend and I'm flying to Washington
tonight, so that tomorrow she and I can get on a plane and fly to New Hampshire,
where we are gonna win there, too!
They told me you were down here. I just wanted to come somewhere to think.
Well, I hope you have. And that whatever was clouding your mind is gone.
Because I just had to give a victory speech... alone. And one way or another, I
need you on that plane with me tomorrow. No. The desk. Left-hand drawer. You
still have this. Yes. It felt wrong to throw it out, for some reason. When I said we
were lying, what I meant was... For all these years, I thought we were on this path
together. But it's not what I thought it would be. What I convinced myself it would
be, like what Thomas wrote. What I convinced myself it would be, like what
Thomas wrote. You really believe that? We earned this together. I said that to
your face the first day I walked in here as president. It's your office. Not mine. I
have not made a single major decision without asking your opinion first. But see,
that's it. You make the decisions. Anything that I want, like the UN... It made me
ill, Francis. My stomach turned. Why, because you had to resign? No,
because I had to ask for your help in the first place. That I couldn't get
the confirmation on my own. And what is wrong with asking for my help
when you need it? The fact that I need it. I hate that feeling. It's not me.
I don't recognize myself when I look in the mirror. I do things... like I did
in the hotel in Iowa. I can't even talk with you about it. Instead you want
me to slap you around like some animal. That's what we are when we
strip everything away. - That I can understand! - It was deranged,
begging me to take you like that. And you couldn't even give that to me.
If you wanted a husband who proved his manhood to you that way, you
should've stayed back in Dallas with your mother and married the prom
king. At least I would've known where I stood. No, you can't have it both
ways. You want an equal partner when it suits you? You want a man to
take charge when it suits you? And I'm supposed to what, just divine
when you want which? Stop being so selfish.
You're better than that. I'm not being selfish. - You are. We're in the
middle of an election, and look at us. That's exactly it. Look at us,
Francis. We used to make each other stronger. At least I thought so, but
that was a lie. We were making you stronger. And now I'm just weak and
small, and I can't stand that feeling any longer. All right. What do you

want? What is the goddamn alternative? Please, Claire, tell me, because
I don't understand. All I am hearing is, it's not enough. That the White
House is not enough. That being First Lady is not enough. - Not enough!
- No. It's you that's not enough. When we lose... because of you... there
will be nothing. No plan. No future. We will only be has-beens. And you
want to amount to something? Well, here is the brutal fucking truth.
And you can hate me, you can be disgusted, you can feel whatever it is
you wanna feel because frankly, I'm beyond caring. But without me, you
are nothing. You're right. This office has one chair. And you have always
known that from the very beginning. And if you now can't stomach that,
well, then I'm a fool for having married you in the first place. But I don't
have time to be a fool. I have to run this country and win a nomination.
I'm doing my job. Doug is out there doing his job. And it's time now for
you to do yours. You want me to take charge? Fine. I will take charge.
You will get on that plane tomorrow. You will come to New Hampshire.
You will smile and shake hands and kiss babies. And you will stand with
me on a stage. And you will be the First Lady! And you do all that. I
don't give a damn if you vomit on your own time. You're scheduled to
depart in 20 minutes, sir. Thank you. Check in with the First Lady, make
sure she's ready. Are you okay? I'm good to go, sir.

Season 4
That my opponent..
Your father told mine.
Greetead him with a
Flashy headline.
Your daughter
To kill thisand let me just.

2
Slay a dragon.
First lady is here now you are here.
Thank yourself you played it..
Goodnight
My axe..
Good evening.
3
How many of you drove
Its as though
Than to invade rusia
Marriage problem issue, the day before and now we have this
Just me sir.

Step outside please

The bitternes.s.
Hypocrite..
Wanted to believe it.

4
How to sel it
If I wantd to sabotage
If diplomacy would working.

The president appreciates talent..

A real mark..
You make enemies.
We confirm nothing
That crap.
As far as threaths go

Give s a minute douglas.

5
Pipes..
We needed a head to roll
Planted a bug
I wil come find you..
Shes good isn't she
Chaos..
Some ice.
The president would never let Raymond
Not in here.

6
Hes number two
He would even have this conversation

I'm not gonna keep the

Would you give us a minute
I'm on standby.
My wife is here..
7
Weird at me..,,
Not even these men..
Edwuard..
Imagine a..
Trust me..
In person..
To practice?
Youre not gonna like it at first.
you play the bad cop.
You guessed it
I need to speak with him
Abort the.
8
Curiosity..
That was our deal..
A meeting.
When I was sitting..

Francis.
In the last 24 hours..
Strongarm..
He was a coward.
The only problem with..

9
Get you on the move
If it werent for the pills

Caught us both..
Wonder if it was his idea.
Your service to this country, he called our bluff
Thank you mr president.
Desperation
Could if you want to
Play video
Nixon.
Either youregone
Shes a much better.
Whatever you say

10
To get me in the same room..
Shoplifted.
When you promised him secretary of state.
You dont have any porrff.
Is she happy..
Total war or nothing else x2
On the ground..
Coffe table..
Dont forget about her speech..

11
Secretary durrant

Double digits.
Does Claire know I'm here.
Beyond happened.

Adrian Van Oyen

Marouf Bankousli Daca ai maini de domnisoara:))

Hamude Fmm :))

Marouf Bankousli _)_ indreapt-o

Marouf BankousliHow easily can two strangers fall in love?

Si noi astia urati cum ne gasim perechea?

Simona Ana-Maria Nu tiu ce nelegi tu prin "urat",dar las impresia asta acas.
O s i gseti perechea ,nu eti lsat pe dinafar
13 hrs Like 1

Marouf Bankousli Urat e o persoana care de obicei e aratata cu degetul, nu foarte

placut privita de sexul opus samd. Mai vrei deifinitii?
13 hrs Like

Cosmin Moisii Stai calm, curvele`s ieftine.

13 hrs Like 1

Marouf Bankousli Nu e vorba de curve, in Syria ma costa in jur de 500usd o

nevasta daca e sa o luam asa:)))
13 hrs Like 3

Adrian Bogdan Ruf esti in cautare?

13 hrs Like 1

Marouf Bankousli Ce-ati sarit toti pe mine ma?:)))))))))))))))0

13 hrs Like

Hamude Mey bork aigi la romania trebuie bani pentru gasit femeie la tine
12 hrs Like 1

Simona Ana-Maria *Curva. Iti trebuie bani pentru o curva.

12 hrs Like

Marouf Bankousli Adica romance?

12 hrs Like

Simona Ana-Maria Wtf? Nu

12 hrs Like

Hamude Da mey la romange trebuie mult bani si masina furmos mercedes

12 hrs Like

Marouf Bankousli Esti greu de inteles Simona

12 hrs Like

Nastase Radu-Andrei Cred ca i-ai fcut o impresia greita vis a vis de romnge
mai Marouf mai. Diferit nu nseamn urt, treci peste complexul asta i o sa fie
ok.
12 hrs Like

Marouf Bankousli Eu incercam sa vorbesc cu vreo tipa mai Nastase mai...

12 hrs Like

Marouf Bankousli Daca nu esti femeie, cum ai putea sa ma convingi ca nu am

dreptate?
12 hrs Like

Simona Ana-Maria Toate tipele sa vina la Marouf

12 hrs Like 2

Marouf Bankousli Mersi, mersi=)))

12 hrs Like

Simona Ana-Maria Cu placere ;3 Poti sa incepi sa-ti exprimi preferintele:

blonda,bruneta etc etc,si nu,nu poti sa iei 2 tipe.
12 hrs Like

Nastase Radu-Andrei Dac tu crezi ca doar femeile i pot dovedi ca greeti e

problema ta =))
12 hrs Like

Marouf Bankousli Sa nu fie curva e de ajuns=))

12 hrs Like

Simona Ana-Maria Gata boss,s-a facut.

12 hrs Like

Marouf Bankousli Asa boss, batem palma

12 hrs Like

Hamude Ce tara azta mey la noi la arabi luat 4 nevazte.

12 hrs Like

Hamude Daca ai gamile furmos si mercedes iei 6

12 hrs Like

Marouf Bankousli Am martzides originel

12 hrs Like

Simona Ana-Maria =))))) E bine de stiut

12 hrs Like 1

Marouf Bankousli Evenimentul asta o sa fie esuat din start, toti care se vor cupla
o vor face pentru ca sunt cumva atrasi de la prima privire, parere sincera.
12 hrs Like

Simona Ana-Maria Who cares? Se cupleaza? E perfect.Lumea e fericita.

12 hrs Like

Hamude E esuat ca doate fomeile o sa vina bentru mine si gamilele mele

12 hrs Like

Hamude Si mercedes
12 hrs Like

Marouf Bankousli Da, dar nu se cupleaza prin ideea originala, la asta ma refeream
12 hrs Like

Simona Ana-Maria Atunci eu nu's femeie. Lasa,ca ne ocupam noi de experiment.O

sa ne iasa. Voi trebuie sa va distrati *in limita bunului simt.
12 hrs Like

Marouf Bankousli Pai nu esti femeie, esti inca fata.

12 hrs Like

Laura Spataru "Noi, astia urati" nu o sa ne gasim perechea. O sa ne gaseasca ea

pe noi smile emoticon
11 hrs Like

Marouf Bankousli E ca si cum ti-ar fi sete si nu ai incerca fiecare ulcior de-l vezi..

11 hrs Like

Alex Ander noi astia urati ne gasim altii mai urati =)))
11 hrs Like 2

Laura Spataru Marouf - pai nu. Te uiti in fiecare ulcior inainte, eventual ii mirosi
continutul, nu bagi direct gura in el, ca poate e ceva naspa inauntru :)))
Alex - Asta nu!
11 hrs Like

Marouf Bankousli Nu stii niciodata de cine dai, deci n-are relevanta ce zici. Vorbim
de persoane, spre deosebire de ulcior pot avea o mie de fete.
11 hrs Like

Laura Spataru Stii ce mi se pare foarte trist? Ca ai perfecta dreptate! frown

emoticon
11 hrs Like

Marouf Bankousli Thanks.

11 hrs Like

Laura Spataru Uhm.... anytime?

11 hrs Like

Alex Ander Ti-am trimis cerere, Laura. colonthree emoticon

11 hrs Like

Marouf Bankousli Bafta Alex =))

11 hrs Like

Alex Ander Nu e ceea ce pare.

11 hrs Like

Marouf Bankousli Incercam sa te incurajez si tu..:

11 hrs Like

Laura Spataru Nu, cred ca vrea sa joace WoT cu mine :))

11 hrs Like

Alex Ander De fapt, chiar da ...

11 hrs Like

Laura Spataru Stiam wink emoticon

11 hrs Like

Marouf Bankousli Eu joc lol, acum imi pareti ciudati amandoi:))

11 hrs Like 1

Alex Ander Am cont nou pe lol, lvl 26. IGN: Rabicy

11 hrs Like

Marouf Bankousli Glumeam, no offence ofc.

11 hrs Like 1