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Ep 149: The West Wing, S2 E3-6

August 3, 2026 · 35 min

Show notes

This week we're deep in Season 2 of The West Wing (episodes 3-6) and there's a lot to unpack. We break down why Ainsley Hayes might be the perfect narrative foil for Sam Seaborn, and get into a real debate about who exactly John Larroquette is to each of us. Somewhere along the way, we also plan our dream beach vacation and make a case for bringing jazzercise back — don't ask, just listen.

We also get into the chemistry between POTUS and FLOTUS, because Bartlet is clearly obsessed with his wife, and we have thoughts on what that roleplay probably looks like (spoiler: think Grease, but make it presidential). And in true Sorkin fashion, we talk about how this fictional administration somehow feels more functional and more democratic than a lot of real ones — then and now.

If you're rewatching The West Wing or discovering it for the first time, this episode has the character analysis, the tangents, and the "wait, we need to talk about this" moments that made you fall for the show in the first place.

👇 Team Ainsley or not sure yet? Let us know!

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