S2E8 · Shibboleth

Complete story — includes the ending

Just before Thanksgiving Day a container ship arrives in San Diego, California, from East Asia; one container holds 83 surviving refugees from the People's Republic of China and the bodies of 13 who have died during the voyage; the survivors claim to be Christian evangelicals fleeing from persecution by the Communist government, and they request religious asylum. Toby and President Bartlet add the name of Josephine McGarry, Leo's sister, to a list of recess appointments, but Leo opposes the move. Leo points out a particular photograph in a newspaper, which helps him persuade her to withdraw. The President summons a representative of the Chinese illegal immigrants and speaks briefly with him in the Oval Office; the President then talks with the governor of California by telephone and makes arrangements to serve the needs of the immigrants and to allow the Chinese government to save face. Charlie spends a great deal of time finding a new carving knife for the President, who gives Charlie the one passed down through his family from Paul Revere. The President pardons one turkey and drafts another into military service. Note: Nominated for Outstanding Directing for a Drama Series. Also submitted as part of out Outstanding Drama win.