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A low-level Cabinet member becomes President of the United States after a catastrophic attack kills everyone above him, in the Presidential line of succession.
Kiefer Sutherland is back in action in the nation’s capital. Supported by a well rounded recurring cast, unassuming Tom Kirkman is thrown into chaos and forced to navigate “the swamp,” and all of its power-hungry inhabitants. Here’s the catch….they’re all looking at him for direction (or as easy prey). Through a catastrophic event, Kirkman, who is the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development, has found himself as the newly minted President of the United States, or POTUS, as he is often referred by his staff.
The season opener starts with the Kirkmans planning their exit from life in Washington DC and on to their next opportunity following disagreements in policy with the sitting president. Plans quickly unfold as most of the Executive, Legislative, and Judicial branch is killed in a massive attack on a joint session of Congress. Kirkman is soon identified as the “Designated Survivor” and is sworn in as the President.
Kirkman sets about the daunting task of rebuilding the political leadership and providing direction to a cautious public. Supported by his wife Alex (Natascha McElhone of Californication ), he brings along other trusted people to fill out his inner circle, including his secretary at HUD, Emily Rhodes, and Aaron Shore to be his Chief of Staff. Navigating the legal and political minefield surrounding him, he finds plenty of people willing to give advice and play the political tit for tat. As the season unfolds, bits and pieces of the tragic bombing start making their way to the surface providing plenty of plot twists and surprises.
“Designated Survivor” delivers a serious, evenly paced portal into the world of high powered politics and the back corner deals that seem to be forever prevalent in our current political climate. Storyline and production are what one would expect from a major network, and there’s plenty of intrigue to keep you coming back for more.
Available on DVD Tuesday, August 29th
