The third episode of Death by Lightning commences with a poignant flashback to Charles' days in a cult, where he witnesses the surrounding participants indulging in intimate moments. During their gathering, the group jests at Charles' expense, as the women in the group show little interest in him and decline his romantic overtures. Charles vows to make a name for himself, determined to prove his worth amidst their mockery.
The scene shifts to a lavish soiree hosted by the Republican Party, celebrating James' ascendancy to the presidency of the United States. As James engages in discussions with the senators, Chester indulges in the festivities, his intoxication reflecting his unbridled joy.
Meanwhile, Roscoe engages in a heart-to-heart conversation with Senator Blaine, reminding him of his heroic intervention at the eleventh hour that saved James's political fortunes. Roscoe underscores that the financial backing from New York is not a gift but a burden. Lucretia, on the other hand, feels uneasy among the gaiety, but Charles' presence manages to brighten her mood for a moment. However, Lucretia becomes increasingly uncomfortable and withdraws from the conversation. Charles then requests to speak with James, entrusting Lucretia with the task of conveying his message to the president.
As Charles' attempts to ingratiate himself with the party by approaching Chester and seeking employment are met with resistance from the guards, who boot him out for lacking a formal invitation, James and his family embark on their relocation from Ohio to the grandiose White House in Washington.
In a separate encounter, Senator Blaine shares his thoughts with James about selecting his cabinet members. Despite being offered the position of Secretary of State, Blaine declines the offer and urges James to consider the senators already working under Roscoe's umbrella. He reveals that Roscoe holds the majority control over party finances, implying a subtle power play within the party's hierarchy.
James stood firm in his resolve, imploring Blaine to join him in overthrowing the omnipotent and corrupt Roscoe. As fate would have it, Charles arrived on the scene, seeking an interview for a coveted position under the President's wing. Lucretia and Joe frantically attempted to dissuade James from entertaining the candidates, fearing their potential treachery. However, James remained unswayed and conducted each interview with unwavering determination.
Chester, infuriatingly, informed Roscoe of James's plan to appoint senators contrary to Roscoe's wishes, jeopardizing his own reputation. Roscoe and Chester then went so far as to kidnap and threatened the senators with death. The following day, the senators reneged on their offer, further fueling James's realization that Chester remained loyal to Roscoe. Unrepentant, Chester defended his actions while Roscoe arrived to remind James of his alternative: appointing senators from New York, those he personally recommended.
Charles's disappointment was palpable as he was once again denied an audience with James. Joe, determined to assist, promised Charles a second chance to meet James the week after. However, Charles's discontentment was palpable.
That night, James conferred with Lucretia and Senator Blaine about Roscoe's treachery. Blaine suggested a lesson in violence to teach Roscoe a harsh one. Meanwhile, Charles forged a letter from James, thanking him for his contributions during the elections. He wrote to Franny, informing her of his impending appointment with the President.
Charles paid a late-night visit to Senator Blaine's abode, hoping for a chance encounter. The next week, he finally secured a one-on-one conversation with James. Charles was in awe as he spoke with the latter, but James was called away due to an emergency.
James promised to get back to Charles if he could secure a position for him. Hurrying home, James learned of Lucretia's illness with malaria. Meanwhile, Charles received a letter from Franny, informing him of his father's death that very July, during his arduous campaigning for James.
That evening, Lucretia and James engaged in a conversation about the individuals he has been encountering lately. Lucretia implored James to enlist those who love and uphold him, a sentiment that resonated deeply within him. As the night progressed, James made a momentous decision to undermine Roscoe and diminish his influence.
The following day, Roscoe and Chester were enraged at James for recruiting a new collector for the ports, especially considering that 75% of their revenue stemmed from the New York port customs. Roscoe relayed to Chester the urgency to bring James down immediately.
Meanwhile, Charles arrived to meet with James but was sent away due to James's undetermined absence. Undeterred, Charles sought out Secretary Blaine and presented him with a forged letter, hoping to secure a position. However, Blaine politely declined, stating that it was not the right time for a conversation and asked Charles to leave. Blaine's refusal to hire Charles under James's administration labeled him as an opportunist.
In response, Charles penned a heartfelt letter to James, expressing his disappointment in him. He recounted how he had dedicated his time to campaigning for James, only to be ignored now, both he and his contributions overshadowed. Believing that James was unfit to serve the people of the nation, Charles believed he did not deserve to be President.
As James struggled with Lucretia's deteriorating condition, Chester and Roscoe conspired with other senators on how they could dethrone him. The episode concluded with Charles purchasing a pistol, symbolizing his determination and resolve in the impending conflict.
