House of Cards Season 2 Episode 12: The President in Crisis, Raymond Under Investigation, Frank Emerges as the Ultimate Winner
James Foley
Director
David Fincher
Director
Kevin Spacey
Francis Underwood
Robin Wright
Claire Underwood
Michael Joseph Kelly
Doug Stamper
Kate Mara
Zoe Barnes
Kristen Connolly
Christina
Plot Summary:The President summons Frank, accusing him of framing him for secret diplomatic activities. He discovers that Frank aims to weaken his power in preparation for the 2016 election, but Frank denies everything, claiming it was ultimately for the President's own good—though the President refuses to believe him and vows to fight back, ensuring Frank’s schemes will not succeed. Unbeknownst to the President, Frank successfully isolates him from everyone, including himself. The bond of old comradeship is thus destroyed. Claire calls First Lady Tricia to defend Frank, hoping she can mediate and ease tensions between the President and Frank, but Tricia wishes to prioritize family and avoid entanglement. Frank decides to target the doctor instead, waiving confidentiality to deflect blame onto the doctor and relieve pressure on himself. When Frank meets Secretary of State Catherine, she rebukes him for attacking the President, but Frank offers no explanation—only suggesting that dragging the President down would benefit her too. Catherine requests immunity from冯 so he can testify about potential money laundering. To save himself,冯 betrays Raymond, who then receives a subpoena and begins to panic. The formal investigation into Raymond officially begins. Meanwhile, Megan hosts a TV segment on General McKinney’s sentencing. Jackie calls, directly blaming Claire for abandoning her and forcing her to shoulder all the burden. Megan tries to explain but gets no chance. Claire watches from the sidelines and resolves to talk things through with Jackie, promising to withdraw the proposal. Jackie’s main issue stems from losing faith in Frank due to his distrust and surveillance. Claire has sacrificed much for Frank, only wishing he could weather this storm. With the President cornered, Tricia urges him not to surrender his confidentiality. He assures her he’ll protect her from harm. In the crisis, the President and his wife’s relationship noticeably improves. Though nearly the entire public turns against the President after his illegal actions are exposed, only Frank stands by him—though even his support carries hidden motives.