Billy Jack Goes to Washington

Billy Jack Goes to Washington

Year: 1977

Runtime: 155 mins

Language: English

Drama

After a senator dies while sealing an investigation into the nuclear power industry, the remaining senator and the governor need a pliable candidate to protect their shady deals. They select Billy Jack, who is currently incarcerated after his previous film’s climax, assuming he lacks influence yet will draw young voters to their party.

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Timeline & Setting – Billy Jack Goes to Washington (1977)

Explore the full timeline and setting of Billy Jack Goes to Washington (1977). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

Location

Washington, D.C., United States Capitol, Capitol Hill

Set in the U.S. capital, the story unfolds largely within the halls of Congress and the Senate chamber. The Capitol serves as the stage for power struggles, debates, and behind-the-scenes lobbying. The film portrays the intense atmosphere of political decision-making and the pressure placed on legislators to compromise.

🏛️ Capitol 🗳️ Politics 🧭 Activism

Last Updated: October 04, 2025 at 15:51

Main Characters – Billy Jack Goes to Washington (1977)

Meet the key characters of Billy Jack Goes to Washington (1977), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Billy Jack (Tom Laughlin)

An idealistic, outspoken newcomer who enters the Senate with a reputation for honesty. He refuses to betray his beliefs, opposing the nuclear power plant and its ties to a national initiative for youth. His resolve is tested by bribery, threats, and intense political maneuvering, culminating in a high-stakes filibuster.

🗣️ Oratory 💪 Determination 🏛️ Politics

Sen. Joseph Paine (E. G. Marshall)

A veteran senator who publicly claims opposition to nuclear power while secretly taking graft to influence votes. He schemes to expel Billy, manipulates colleagues, and hides his corruption behind a veneer of respectability and political acumen.

🧭 Power 💰 Corruption 🎭 Manipulation

Bailey (Sam Wanamaker)

A powerful lobbyist with deep influence in his home state who pressures Billy with bribes and perks. He embodies the external force of moneyed interests trying to bend political outcomes.

💼 Lobbyist 🏛️ Influence 🎯 Pressure

Jean Roberts (Delores Taylor)

Billy's assistant who quits after the murder of a lobbyist, fearing for her safety, and returns to help him learn Senate procedure for a critical filibuster. Her loyalty and resolve contribute to Billy's ability to challenge the status quo.

🧭 Loyalty 🧠 Strategy

Last Updated: October 04, 2025 at 15:51

Major Themes – Billy Jack Goes to Washington (1977)

Explore the central themes of Billy Jack Goes to Washington (1977), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

🕊️ Integrity

An idealistic, conscience-driven attempt to vote with personal ethics rather than party lines. The narrative follows Billy Jack as he faces bribery attempts and political pressure, highlighting how truth can challenge entrenched power. The film probes whether courage and honesty can redefine a fractured political landscape.

💰 Corruption

The story exposes graft and bribery that influence legislative decisions, embodied by Paine's actions and the lobbying group led by Bailey. It shows how money can cloud judgement and threaten public service. The tension between profit and principle drives the conflict toward a climactic confrontation.

🗳️ Democracy

The plot centers on the functioning of democratic processes: debate on the Senate floor, the threat of expulsion, and a dramatic filibuster. It underscores the role of citizens and grassroots activism as a check on political power. The narrative affirms that accountability and procedure matter, even under intense pressure.

Last Updated: October 04, 2025 at 15:51

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Billy Jack Goes to Washington Summary

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Billy Jack Goes to Washington Summary

Billy Jack Goes to Washington Timeline

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Billy Jack Goes to Washington Timeline

More About Billy Jack Goes to Washington

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