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House of Cards Season 2 Episode 11: Doug Abandons Rachel, Megan Testifies with Courage

James Foley
James Foley
Director
David Fincher
David Fincher
Director
Kevin Spacey
Kevin Spacey
Francis Underwood
Robin Wright
Robin Wright
Claire Underwood
Michael Joseph Kelly
Michael Joseph Kelly
Doug Stamper
Kate Mara
Kate Mara
Zoe Barnes
Kristen Connolly
Kristen Connolly
Christina
Plot Summary: The scandal over Chinese donation funds being laundered breaks out, with Raymond implicated and public suspicion growing about whether the White House is also involved. Frank begins to clarify everything. When discussing bridge construction as a temporary measure to cut off Republican funding, Frank claims it's merely a promise made by the president to voters. He touches on tribal issues and the 'Fong' matter, indirectly suggesting Raymond's actions differ from the White House’s stance, implying investigators have concerns about Raymond. While undermining Raymond, Frank also strives to mitigate public backlash. To resolve his current crisis, Frank decides to release a fresh 'red herring' to divert public attention. In a group sharing session, Doug expresses his feelings toward Rachel—his dependence on her akin to family, intoxicating like alcohol, impossible to resist despite repeatedly telling himself not to develop any emotions. The cycle of lies—first deceiving inspectors, then the president—leaves Frank exhausted. Noticing Doug’s increasingly erratic behavior, Frank recalls having given him a second chance after he quit drinking. Now, Frank offers another opportunity but warns that this will be the final one. Doug resolves to fully protect the Vice President, recruits Seth, proposes a joint effort to uncover threats against her, deletes Rachel’s contact information, and even destroys his phone. Yet he still cannot resist seeking Rachel, only to find she is now with Lisa—devastating him. Megan visits Claire, finding a large crowd gathered at the entrance, passionately protesting Claire’s abortion. Megan feels deeply troubled, realizing Claire remains composed under immense pressure while she herself has retreated. Finally summoning courage, Megan exposes General MacKinney’s sexual assault and reveals all his misconduct publicly. Frank meets with Raymie, who claims to have severed ties with Jackie and says there’s no way back. But Frank knows Raymie is protecting Jackie and doesn’t truly care about her fate. Frank achieves his goal: Zoe dies in a horrific subway accident on a dark street. Doug encounters Frank, informing him that both Jenna and Zoe have been investigating Peter’s death and traced it to Rachel. He asks what to do with Zoe; Frank replies, 'Don’t worry—I’ll handle it.' Meanwhile, Zoe feels anxious and insecure during intimacy. Frank approaches Jackie, asking about her future plans and whether she wants to enter leadership. He aims to recruit her as his successor, offering military support and a party whip position to secure her loyalty, ensuring he can focus on his political ambitions without concern. To persuade her, Frank shows her files from Weber and Buckwalter about Jackie, urging her to consider her options. Zoe goes to Rachel’s workplace to talk, only to discover she has already resigned. After persistent efforts, Rachel’s supervisor finally gives her an email address. Unbeknownst to Zoe, Doug had previously visited Rachel’s restaurant and urged her to quit immediately. Frank prepares disposable phones and other tools to erase Zoe’s existence. Doug arrives at Rachel’s residence, checking if she’s ready to leave—but suddenly, Rachel holds a knife to him, declaring she won’t run anymore. Doug quickly subdues her, forces her into the car, and drives away. During security preparations, Frank insists Edward Meecham must be included in the security team. Meanwhile, Zoe secretly investigates Frank. In a park confrontation, Zoe directly challenges Frank, provoking his fury. Frank’s first award as Vice President requires his wife’s attendance. Unexpectedly, Claire learns one recipient is her former college classmate—a man who once raped her. She refuses to attend, but Frank insists the event is too important. Reluctantly, she agrees. At the subway station, Zoe speaks with Frank in disguise. She never intended to give up her investigation. Finally losing patience, Frank pushes Zoe off the platform. She dies violently—on the very day of Frank’s birthday. Frank extinguishes the birthday candle Claire prepared for him. Claire gently places her hand on his.

House of Cards Season 2

United States
2014
13Complete Series

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