While President Bartlet and some of the staff are en route overnight to Portland for a major education speech, Leo remains behind to monitor a tense situation in the Persian Gulf when a foreign tanker is suspected of smuggling contraband oil and fires on U.S. Navy helicopters sent to investigate. Elsewhere, Josh is on a tight deadline when he debates with an opposing party’s congressman (Charley Lang) — who happens to be gay — the merits of a bill brought before the President that would prohibit same-sex marriages. On the plane, Toby tries to re-work Sam’s questionable speech on education while Charlie offers a novel idea that would result in more teachers. In addition, new hire Ainsley is content to perspire freely in her overheated office while secretary Margaret worries that her boss, Leo, might be tempted to take a drink after he signs his divorce papers.

From TV Guide: The President is taking a red-eye to Portland, Ore., to deliver an education address, and Sam must go with him because he can’t get the speech right. Toby must also go, to help Sam, and C.J. has to go, too, because she’s being punished for making disparaging remarks about the President’s alma mater, Notre Dame. Back at the White House, Josh spars with a gay Republican congressman (Charley Lang) over a bill on homosexual marriage, and Leo monitors a minor crisis in the Persian Gulf involving an oil tanker.