Secretary of State Elizabeth McCord faces an abundance of political challenges, most importantly an international hostage situation; the McCord children struggle to adjust to their new schools.
A Chinese student seeking political asylum threatens a potential peace treaty between Japan and China; tension grows between Stevie and Alison.
Elizabeth's staff fails uncover corruption in her microloan program, leaving her humiliated at a public budget hearing; an investigation into Marsh's death progresses.
After being reactivated to the NSA, Henry lies about it to Elizabeth; the office is impacted by Daisy and Matt's antagonism.
Elizabeth discovers an assassination plot against the Iranian president, while dealing with a massive protest against Iran's plan to execute a gay citizen; in order to deal with her PTSD, Elizabeth sees a therapist.