Ep 13. Night Five

As tensions continue to rise between the United States and the fictional country of Qumar, President Bartlet faces a difficult decision in "Night Five", the 13th episode of The West Wing's 3rd season.

The episode takes place over the course of one night, as the President and his staff work to address a rapidly deteriorating situation with Qumar. The country's leader, Shareef, has been assassinated, and the inexperienced new leader is threatening to escalate the conflict.

As the night wears on, Bartlet meets with several of his top advisors, including Chief of Staff Leo McGarry, National Security Advisor Nancy McNally, and Joint Chiefs chairman Admiral Fitzwallace. They disagree on the best course of action, with some advocating for immediate military intervention while others urge caution.

Meanwhile, press secretary C.J. Cregg works to manage the media's coverage of the crisis, facing tough questions from journalists as she tries to avoid revealing classified information.

At the same time, young staffers Toby Ziegler and Sam Seaborn are given the daunting task of writing a speech for the President to deliver in the event of a full-on war with Qumar. They struggle to find the right words, knowing that they will be heard by millions and could shape the course of history.

As the night wears on, tensions mount and tempers flare. The President is forced to make a difficult decision that could have far-reaching consequences for the country and the world.

"Night Five" is a tense and gripping episode that showcases the complex decision-making and high-stakes drama that The West Wing is known for. As the show's characters grapple with the weight of their responsibilities, viewers are reminded of the challenges and sacrifices involved in governing a nation.