S6E21 · Things Fall Apart

Faced with a Democratic party in disarray in the face of the strongest Republican challenger they have ever had, Bartlet asks Leo to take charge of the potentially chaotic Democratic National Convention, while Santos considers a party-unifying vice-presidential offer from front-runner Russell. Meanwhile, the International Space Station is leaking oxygen and a rescue of the three astronauts will be difficult, and Bartlet catches Charlie leaving Zoey's bedroom after a nighttime visit.

Plot summary and ending

Spoilers ahead. Coverage follows the scope labeled below.

Complete story — includes the ending

The well-organized Republican convention is making the Democrats look in disarray as the three candidates continue to battle for the nomination. Bartlet asks Leo to take control and organize the convention. Meanwhile, the International Space Station has a leak and is losing oxygen which jeopardizes the lives of the three astronauts aboard and morality and mortality are examined. A super-secret space shuttle might help them but it is considered too sensitive to reveal, until someone has a different idea. Note: The episode title refers to a passage from the poem " The Second Coming " by William Butler Yeats.

Sources and content license

Source and revision history · Adapted from Wikipedia contributors, The West Wing season 6. HTML formatting and reference markers removed. · Content license