Ep 5. War Crimes

In The West Wing season 3 episode 5, titled "War Crimes," the Bartlet administration faces a moral dilemma when a former dictator from the fictional African country of Equatorial Kundu seeks asylum in the United States. The dictator, General Baraka, is wanted for war crimes committed during his regime, including the mass murder of his own people.

President Jed Bartlet and his team are split on whether or not to grant Baraka asylum. On one hand, they have a duty to uphold the law and principles of justice. On the other hand, they have to consider the possibility of political instability in Equatorial Kundu if Baraka is extradited and brought to trial.

Meanwhile, Sam Seaborn is preparing for a debate against a Republican rival, Hallie Latham. Sam's campaign is shaken when a scandal breaks out involving Hallie's personal life, highlighting the double standards and sexism present in politics.

The episode also explores the personal lives of White House staff members, including Josh Lyman's relationship with his assistant Donna Moss and CJ Cregg's difficulty in balancing her work and personal life.

As the president weighs his decision on Baraka's asylum, tensions rise between the administration and the State Department, who believe that extraditing Baraka is the correct course of action. The episode builds to a dramatic conclusion, as the fate of Baraka and the stability of Equatorial Kundu hang in the balance.

Overall, "War Crimes" is a thought-provoking episode that examines the complex issues of justice, politics, and morality. With strong performances by the cast and tight writing, it is a standout episode in The West Wing's third season.