In the Season 2 finale of CBS's "Madam Secretary," Elizabeth McCord (Téa Leoni) falls from power. Episode 23, titled "Vartius," depicts the tension in the White House when President Dalton considers replacing her as Secretary of State.
Elizabeth may be resourceful and strong, but her power in Capitol Hill has been greatly reduced. The Secretary of State has, in the recent past, been attacked by Russell Jackon, the President's Chief of Staff. Fans of the show will remember that Bess didn't sound particularly diplomatic when she was asked about the Chilean mining conflict, or about the Doomsday clock.
The Secretary of State has been on the receiving end of Russell's tirades, and the implication of her answers on the President's hopes of re-election. In this context, it isn't surprising that President Dalton wants to fire her. But what does Bess do in order to lose her job? Could it be related to Dmitri?
In episode 22, Russia's Foreign Minister said they would exchange Dmitri and Talia for Peter Buckley, the Russian spy.
Bess knows that Dmitri's release would repair her fractured marriage, but the President wouldn't arrange Peter's travel to Russia. The promo for episode 23 includes a scene in which Russell says, "You have no business even discussing this in the middle of an election."
Will Bess lose her job? Will she contest for President in Season 3? What do you think will happen? Let us know in the comments section.
Season 2 episode 23's synopsis (via TV Guide) reads:
Season 2 concludes with shocking news about an important political operative reaching Elizabeth, who finds herself navigating her way through tricky waters after hearing that President Dalton is considering replacing her as Secretary of State. Meanwhile, Stevie and Jareth get engaged.
"Madam Secretary" Season 2 episode 23 airs at 8 p.m. EST on Sunday, May 8, on CBS. You can live-stream the episode via CBS All Access.
