A truck carrying uranium fuel crashes in an Idaho tunnel, leaving the staff to prepare for an environmental crisis. Bartlet continues to work out campaign strategy, which may include dropping Vice President Hoynes from the ticket. Meanwhile, unaware of his potential exit from the campaign, Hoynes works on a bill that would provide Internet access to the poor, then attends the same Alcoholics Anonymous meeting as Leo. Elsewhere, Charlie files his taxes on-line after being urged to do so by Bartlet, but immediately regrets taking his advice; and Josh tries to get a presidential proclamation honoring the retirement of Donna's favorite teacher.
Season 3 Episode 17 of The West Wing resulted in a 0.00 rating in the 18-49 demographic.
In a unique glimpse of the inner-workings of Presidential politics, The West Wing takes viewers inside the White House and follows the lives of the staff as they help President Jed Bartlet make the crucial decisions that shape the nation and the world around it. Working closely with the President are close friend and Chief of Staff Leo McGarry; Deputy Chief of Staff Josh Lyman; Josh's assistant Donna Moss; Communications Director Toby Ziegler; and his Deputy, Sam Seaborn; Press Secretary C.J. Cregg; First Lady Abbey Bartlet; and Charlie Young, Bartlet's Personal Aide.
As season 6 unfolded, the show shifted its focus from the current administration to the Arnold Vinick vs. Matthew Santos race for the presidency, presidential election, and transition to the new administration from the Bartlet administration.