McKenna

pragmatic partisan calculating

McKenna surfaces as a vice-presidential prospect during the White House vetting process. Josh Lyman crosses his name off the candidate board and seating chart, disqualifying him due to health concerns that undermine confirmation prospects. This elimination refines the search amid staff debates, elevating figures like Leo McGarry and highlighting the blend of political calculation and personal loyalty that drives the team's priorities.

3 appearances

Also known as: MCKENNA

McKenna's Journey

A timeline through the narrative

3 moments

S4E12 · Guns Not Butter

Countdown Panic: Josh’s Resignation and the Hardin Gamble

Not present; functionally a lever that complicates outreach because he expects reciprocation.

McKenna is referenced as a Republican vote tied to unrelated leverage (broadband access), illustrating cross-aisle bargaining constraints that limit options for securing votes on the aid measure.

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S4E12 · Guns Not Butter

Start the Clock — Hardin Becomes the Swing Vote

Not present; functionally a bargaining chip in the staff's calculus.

Mentioned as a Republican whose vote matters for unrelated broadband access bargaining — part of Josh's cross-aisle calculus and negotiation map.

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S4E22 · Commencement

Josh Pins Leo on the VP Board

Not present to display emotion; functionally sidelined.

McKenna is not present but is actively crossed off the Senate seating chart by Josh for health reasons; this action removes him from contention and signals vetting criteria in practice.

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