House of Cards Season 2 Episode 7: Frank Fights Back Against Raymond
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 opposing Republican Party suddenly acquired $25 million in funds, leaving the President anxious and eager to introduce new legislation to stop it. While deeply troubled, he vents his frustration on Frank, who remains unafraid and dares to speak back, provoking the President’s rage. Frank begins investigating the source of the massive donation, discovering that Raymond was behind it. Although Raymond didn’t make direct political contributions—thus leaving no trace—Frank is certain Raymond is the mastermind. Frank gifts the President a punching bag with a note: 'This stress ball doesn’t talk as much as I do,' making the President laugh instantly. Later, Frank and the President share a drink and have an honest conversation. Regardless of their individual goals, they now find common ground in their shared, inescapable political lives, finally reconciling. Raymie and Jackie have had multiple one-night stands, but Raymie realizes he truly likes Jackie and wants more than fleeting encounters. He tells Jackie that if she isn’t ready for a real relationship, they should end things—because he refuses to mix politics with someone he genuinely cares about. Raymie has been secretly gathering evidence against Claire regarding her abortion, having already sent an assassin to watch over her, asking Raymie to eliminate obstacles before striking. Unexpectedly, the assassin isn't motivated by money—he can't be bribed even with high fees—and has actually been recruited by Frank to become a spy inside Raymie’s circle, gathering intelligence on Raymond. Feng Deshan approaches Doug, Frank’s aide, saying he’s changed his mind and now wants to start building the bridge first, since the Vice President previously deceived him; he demands a binding commitment from Frank before proceeding. Donald is finally removed by Raymie—but though it appears to be Raymie’s conspiracy, everything is ultimately under Frank’s control, merely playing along.