Ep 10. Running Mates

The West Wing season 7 episode 10, titled "Running Mates," is an intense and thought-provoking installment in the popular political drama series. Set against the backdrop of a hotly contested presidential election, the episode showcases the challenges and complexities of political campaigns and the people who run them.

At its heart, "Running Mates" is a character-driven episode that explores the relationships and personal dynamics of the show's central cast. It centers around the selection of a vice presidential candidate for the campaign of Democratic presidential nominee Matt Santos (Jimmy Smits), a charismatic and idealistic politician who is seeking to become the country's first Latino president.

Santos has a number of qualified candidates to choose from, but his selection process is further complicated by his desire to maintain his independence and integrity as a candidate. He must balance the expectations of his campaign staff, political allies, and donors with his own vision and beliefs about what it means to be a leader.

As Santos navigates these difficult waters, the episode also explores the evolving relationships between other key characters. Josh (Bradley Whitford) and Donna (Janel Moloney) continue to dance around their unresolved romantic tension, while Leo (John Spencer) struggles to balance his loyalty to President Bartlett (Martin Sheen) with his commitment to Santos' campaign.

At the same time, the episode introduces new characters and conflicts that add further depth and complexity to the story. A young, ambitious Republican strategist named Ryan Pierce (Jesse Bradford) emerges as a formidable opponent to the Santos campaign, challenging their tactics and message at every turn. Meanwhile, Santos' own running mate selection process is complicated by the sudden revelation of a personal scandal involving one of his top contenders.

Through it all, "Running Mates" maintains a careful balance between drama and humor, showcasing the witty banter and intelligent dialogue that made the show so beloved during its seven-season run. The episode is also notable for its emphasis on issues of race and identity, as Santos faces pressure to choose a Latino running mate and confronts questions about his own identity and background.

Overall, "Running Mates" is a compelling and engaging episode that showcases the best of The West Wing's writing, acting, and storytelling. It is a nuanced exploration of the complex and unpredictable world of politics, and a fitting tribute to a show that remains one of the most influential and respected in the history of television.