Ernest

Ernest emerges in senior White House staff dialogue as a symbol of political sacrifice. Leo invokes him during a tense discussion on patronage and retribution, noting Ernest 'went down for the gun ban' alongside others felled by taxes or similar fights. This reference frames him as a loyal partisan who championed divisive legislation at great personal cost, cautioning Toby against similar risks in ongoing confirmation battles. His example sharpens the team's awareness of how bold policy stands invite Senate payback.