Cawley The West Wing

The pilot episode of The West Wing contains a number of important political issues in which the show’s characters must work through. The primary issue would most likely be the religious tension that arises from an interview with a strict Christian named Mary Marsh and the deputy chief of staff named Josh. As personalities clash and harsh words are exchanged, Josh releases an intense outburst which isn’t good for the public persona of the president. The public situation is only worsened once a supposed video of the P.O.T.U.S. cycling into a tree is released. Throughout the episode, there is a lingering question as to whether Josh will keep his job or not. This is answered once the president arrives and expresses his anger over a stuffed doll that arrived for his granddaughter, complete with a knife through its neck. It is presumably because of a statement she released about early-teen pregnancy to a magazine. The president forces Ms. Marsh and the other Christian activists out of the building, calms his staff, and gives Josh a stern warning.

Religion will always create monumental political issues. Abortion, gay and lesbian marriage, and scientific arguments are only a small amount of debates that arise from the issue. In the same episode, Deputy Chief of Communications, Sam, accidently sleeps with a call girl. Some religious extremists may find this blasphemous as well. As the president of the United States and staff to the president, the characters of The West Wing must constantly be on their toes. Unfortunately, one mistake can cost them the respect of thousands of people or their jobs.