After Venezuela's president and his immediate successors are killed in a devastating earthquake, Elizabeth works to stop a power grab by the late president's son, as well as secure the release of the international aid team he arrested. Also, Elizabeth's brother, Will, is torn between saving his marriage by settling down and taking a job at Walter Reed Medical Center or going to Venezuela to assist in the relief effort.

As the U.N. Security Council considers reinstating sanctions against Iran for its suspected nuclear activities, Elizabeth tries to stop Israel from taking matters into its own hands when it threatens military action against the Iranians. Also, Russell pressures Henry to woo his old Air Force buddy, Congressman Jeff Pearson, to support President Dalton in the House's election vote, and Stevie asks Russell for a recommendation to Harvard Law School.