Bartlet's Signed Authorization for Shareef Operation

Bartlet points to his prior written order on a piece of paper during the Oval Office briefing. This document locks in his commitment to the covert Shareef operation. Advisors like Leo, Nancy, and Fitzwallace propose denials or insulation tactics, but Bartlet rejects them outright. He grips the paper's authority to refuse scapegoating his team amid Qumar's parachute provocation.

2 appearances

Purpose

Formally authorizes the covert Shareef operation and binds presidential responsibility

Significance

Blocks workarounds that disown the team, reinforces Bartlet's loyalty, and drives the group to the Situation Room for unified response

Appearances in the Narrative

When this object appears and how it's used

2 moments

S4E2 · 20 Hours in America Part II

Oval Office — Credibility, Loyalty, and the Coming Provocation

Bartlet's signed authorization (the 'piece of paper') is raised as the moral and legal tether tying the President to the Shareef operation; it constrains political options and legitimates Bartlet's refusal to disown the action.

Before: In the President's files/possession as the formal authorization for the operation; known to senior staff.

After: Remains the binding record of authorization, invoked to justify ownership and to shape how the administration will present or insulate responsibility in the coming crisis.

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S4E2 · 20 Hours in America Part II

Owning the Ship: Bartlet Refuses to Disown Shareef

Referenced verbally by Bartlet as 'a piece of paper' he signed; the signed authorization anchors his moral/ legal responsibility for the Shareef operation and constrains proposals to fully absolve him. It is the tangible proof that prevents easy deniability and forces the ethical dilemma central to the event.

Before: Signed and in existence as the formal authorization for the Shareef operation, exerting both legal and moral weight.

After: Unchanged physically but rhetorically activated — it strengthens Bartlet's public claim of responsibility and limits options proposed by advisors.

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