Take Out the Trash Day

Sorkin's writing is rightly revered, but this episode underscores how insightful he can be on an assortment of subjects. Without falling prey to the pitfalls of "on the other hand" or false "both sides" presentation, he manages to inject alternate opinions concerning controversies that usually are overlooked, especially in partisan discussions.

This extends even to the ongoing issue of Republicans attempting to capitalize on Leo's history of alocholism and drug addicition. The segment ends with a terrific (and moving) scene of Leo confronting the leaker who set in motion the investigation of his behaivior, and without the showiness of Sorkin's "A Few Good Men" it manages to pack a punch quietly but spectacularly. Leo actually sees how this young staffer, who we believe is destroying his life by her leak, actually had some justification, given the importance of his role in the government. Liza Weil in the role gives a wonderfully understated performance.

With plenty of humor, Sorkin illustrates how the White House manages news and stories to optimize the president's standing -not to control but rather to emphasized timing (the issue of midterm elections is rightly a major consideration). But the segment most eloquently shows how Janney's character is the conscience of the administration in so many ways, while personalizing her in a charming manner. It sure helps having such a talented and subtle actress in the role.