Ep 3. Candidate for Crime

In Columbo season 3 episode 3, titled "Candidate for Crime," the iconic detective Lieutenant Columbo is introduced to a world of politics and power struggles as he investigates the murder of a senatorial candidate.

The episode opens with Senatorial Candidate Nelson Hayward attending a political fundraiser at the Beverly Hills home of Harold and Enid Chambers. The event is a who’s who of the political elite, including Hayward’s campaign manager, Everett Logan, who is worried about some of the candidate’s questionable behavior. Shortly after the party, Nelson is discovered dead in his car, and it's up to Columbo to solve the case.

The investigation leads Columbo through a maze of political intrigue, where everyone from the candidate’s wife to his campaign manager, and even his own brother, are all suspects. With the help of his sharp wit and keen observation, Columbo quickly starts to unravel the mystery behind Nelson Hayward’s murder.

As the investigation unfolds, it becomes clear that there were many people who would benefit from Nelson’s death. The candidate's brother, Jack Hayward, was in financial trouble and stood to inherit a large sum of money as a result of the candidate's death. Meanwhile, Everett Logan was caught up in a bribery scandal and feared that Nelson would turn on him if he won the election.

Columbo works his way through the various suspects and motives while dealing with the political climate of the time. The episode is set against the backdrop of Richard Nixon’s presidency and the political turmoil of the early 1970s. The tension and complexity of the political situation give the episode an added drama and urgency.

One of the standout moments of the episode is the confrontation between Columbo and Everett Logan. The two engage in a battle of wits, with Columbo questioning Logan’s loyalty to Nelson and his involvement in the bribery scandal. The scene is an excellent example of the show's trademark cat and mouse gameplay as the two characters circle one another, each trying to outmaneuver the other.

As the investigation progresses, Columbo uncovers a twist that turns the case on its head. In typical Columbo fashion, the twist is unexpected, and it's a testament to the show’s exceptional writing and storytelling ability.

With another case successfully solved, Columbo is once again shown to be one of the best detectives on American television. His trademark disheveled appearance, attention to detail, and tenacity make him one of the most beloved characters in TV history.

Overall, "Candidate for Crime" is a fantastic episode of Columbo that showcases the show’s ability to weave intricate storylines and complex characters. The combination of politics and murder results in a tense and exciting episode that is classic Columbo. With strong performances from the cast, a compelling story, and a memorable twist, this episode is a must-watch for anyone who loves detective dramas.