Vice President Russell (recurring guest star Gary Cole--not appearing in this episode) appears to be the frontrunner for the Democratic nomination for President. But a new contender, Senator Rafferty (Mel Harris - "thirtysomething"), gives an amazing speech and has members of the press filling their columns with her words. Josh continues to firmly support Santos (recurring guest star Jimmy Smits) and discovers an interesting link between Senator Rafferty's health care plan and one President Bartlet created--that only a White House insider would know. Meanwhile, C.J. tries to get Congress to support a bill.