Ep 12. Guns Not Butter

The West Wing season 4 episode 12, titled "Guns Not Butter," is an intense political drama that showcases the intricate workings of a fictional White House administration. At the heart of the episode is a debate on gun control, where President Bartlet and his team are forced to navigate complex political terrain while dealing with the aftermath of a school shooting.

The episode opens with Bartlet and his advisors planning a meeting with the International Olympic Committee to lobby for the selection of Salt Lake City as the venue for the 2002 Winter Olympics. However, their plans are quickly derailed when news of a school shooting breaks. Bartlet soon learns that the shooter had purchased his gun at a gun show, where background checks are not required.

As the team rushes to handle the crisis, tensions rise between different factions in the White House, each with their own ideas about how to address the issue of gun control. Toby Ziegler, the White House Communications Director, argues that they should focus on the economic benefits of gun control, framing it as an issue of national security that affects the economy. Meanwhile, the First Lady, Abbey Bartlet, advocates for a more direct approach, urging her husband to take on the powerful gun lobby.

Bartlet himself is conflicted, torn between his desire to take a strong stance on gun control and his fear of alienating a significant portion of the population. The episode also gives insight into some of the other personal and professional challenges faced by the Bartlet administration, including the ongoing fallout from the President's disclosure of his multiple sclerosis, and Josh Lyman's attempts to help a Congressman in need.

As the episode progresses, tensions continue to mount as the administration tries to navigate the tricky waters of gun control. From protests outside the White House to intense debates within, every character is forced to grapple with their beliefs and priorities, making for a tense and thought-provoking episode.

Overall, The West Wing season 4 episode 12 is a standout episode in a show known for its intelligent writing and nuanced exploration of complex political issues. With its timely and compelling storyline, "Guns Not Butter" is a must-watch for anyone interested in politics, whether they are a die-hard fan of the show or simply looking for a thought-provoking drama.