Aired: November 20, 2003 | Season: 5 | Episode: 8

Overview
Runtime: 40m
Directed by: Christopher Misiano
Written by: Mark Goffman
Guest stars: Andrew A. Rolfes, Billy Mayo, Brandon Barash, Jane Beard, Joanne McGee, Katya Abelsky, Linda Bisesti, Michael Mack, Michael P. Bryne, Paul Mendoza, Sarah Benoit, Steven Pierce, Tony Pasqualini
Description
Jed's decision not to be held hostage by Haffley shuts down the federal government; unable to get through to Jed and fearing the worst, Leo calls in the reinforcements, and Abbey returns to Washington to deliver a message and provide her husband with a little perspective; after being benched from the staff meetings, Josh gets put back in the game by Jed and sets the stage for victory; disregarding the advice of more seasoned colleagues, Haffley makes a major misstep and loses his advantage over the White House; Jed and Haffley meet and reach an accord on the budget.