Mays Gilliam, portrayed by Chris Rock, serves as the committed alderman of the 9th Ward in Washington, D.C., a challenging area grappling with a significant crime rate. He earns the trust of the local community by genuinely empathizing with their struggles and striving to make a positive impact. However, a shocking event disrupts his world when a local resident, Miss Pearl, returns on the day her home is set for demolition, as her cat is trapped inside. In a courageous attempt to save her, Mays argues with the demolition crew, only to find out that the countdown to destruction is unyielding. He bravely risks his own life in a bid to rescue her before the house meets its fate.
Despite his heroic efforts, Mays faces the grim possibility of losing his job, as the Mayor disapproves of his selfless actions that cost the city's budget and ultimately tarnish the Mayor’s image. This conflict escalates as Mays is evicted from his office, and even his lawyer, Bernard Cooper, advises him to conform. Adding to his personal woes, Mays' girlfriend Kim (played by Robin Givens) decides to leave him, feeling disillusioned by what she perceives as his stagnation.
In a surprising turn of events, Mays is thrust into the spotlight as the Democratic Party’s nominee for the 2004 presidential election following a tragic plane crash that claims the lives of the original candidates. Hailed as a hero for saving Miss Pearl, Mays finds himself at the center of media attention even as he grapples with self-doubt, believing the election to be a lost cause to the incumbent Republican vice-president, Brian Lewis. Under the guidance of Senator Bill Arnot, along with Debra Lassiter, played by Lynn Whitfield, and Martin Geller, the party aims to present a likable candidate for future electoral prospects.
With every challenge, Mays begins to embrace his role, finding support from those around him, including Mr. Earl, his security director, and Nicollette "Nikki" White, the executive liaison whose primary role, humorously suggested, is to maintain his image free of scandal. Amidst his burgeoning political journey, Mays also forms a connection with Lisa Clark (Tamala Jones), a gas station attendant who becomes a steadfast supporter.
As the campaign progresses, Kim reappears, claiming they are engaged, only to have Mays dismiss her with the help of security. Initially intimidated by the responsibility of representing the African American community, Mays struggles with conservative speechwriting that keeps his approval rating stagnant. This is until his brother Mitch, portrayed by Bernie Mac, convinces him to speak authentically about pivotal issues facing society. Refusing to read the bland speeches that undermine his beliefs, he resonates with voters by addressing real problems such as welfare, healthcare, and income inequality, coining the catchphrase "That A'int Right," to underline societal injustices.
With increasing public support, Mays boldly counters campaign attacks from Lewis, employing creative strategies to draw attention away from gossip and towards substantive discussions about the nation’s challenges. As his polling numbers rise, it becomes evident to him and his team that there is a clear pathway to victory, despite political maneuvering from those who wish to see him fail.
With election day approaching, Mays, now empowered by the renewed enthusiasm of his team and public engagement, prepares for a pivotal debate against Lewis. In this critical moment, he seizes the opportunity to speak candidly about pressing societal issues, advocating for a system that educates the youth and tackles social welfare with urgency and compassion.
Ultimately, Mays triumphs in the election for presidency, promising to make Lisa his First Lady, solidifying his journey from an alderman dedicated to his community to the leader of the nation.
