First Lady

The President's granddaughter who stealthily campaigns for her husband’s presidential nomination. Ambitious and calculating, she orchestrates schemes to shift power in her favor. Her confidence masks a willingness to manipulate rivals to protect her family’s political destiny.

Secretary of State and Lucy's beloved husband, a capable politician pulled into the nomination game. He becomes a focal point of the strategic maneuvering, yet his personal loyalty is tested by behind-the-scenes plots. He embodies a traditional political figure caught in modern political theater.

Lucy's arch-rival, married to a Supreme Court Justice, who seeks to divorce and pursue power with Senator Keane. Cunning and ruthless, she views politics as a battlefield where personal and public interests collide. Her ex-husband Boris's presence adds a layer of international intrigue.

Irene’s husband, a respected Supreme Court Justice who becomes entangled in the nomination plot. He represents the traditional, principled side of the legal-political complex, yet remains a pawn in the broader power play. His position makes the personal stakes of the scheme more delicate.

A rising Senator and Irene’s protégé who stands at the center of the nomination calculus. His ambitions and loyalties are tested as alliances shift due to Lucy’s maneuvers and the larger political chess game. He embodies the opportunistic path to power in Washington.

A powerful newspaper magnate whose press influence can tilt the nomination outcome. His support can turn the tide in campaigns, underscoring the close ties between media and politics. He embodies the force and reach of the era’s media-industrial complex.

A provincial leader of a large women’s organization, initially portrayed as narrow-minded yet wielding significant collective influence. Lucy uses Lavinia’s organization to sway public opinion and mobilize votes. Her transformation illustrates the power and pitfalls of mass mobilization.

Irene’s ex-husband, a foreign envoy in Washington for delicate negotiations. He brings a treaty that could redefine legal boundaries and personal relationships. His role connects international diplomacy with domestic political strategy, setting off a chain of leverage and revelation.

A social figure whose presence highlights the ceremonial side of Washington society. She embodies the etiquette and social networks that intersect with political ambition. Her role helps frame the public stage on which plotlines unfold.