Videotape: On‑Air Allegation (Leo McGarry's Copy)

A compact black‑cased videotape in a clear plastic sleeve with a hastily scrawled label identifying the broadcast. Small and portable, it passes hand to hand; the weight of the case tightens the room as Leo produces it. He wields the tape as playable proof, its physical presence converting rumor into immediate, coercive leverage.

2 appearances

Purpose

To hold a recorded copy of the on‑air allegation so staff and leadership can play, verify, and use the recording as evidentiary leverage in internal negotiations and press/damage‑control decisions.

Significance

Functions as the pivot of a political confrontation: Leo uses the tape to force Deborah O'Leary's apology and to contain a brewing scandal. The object crystallizes private knowledge into public threat, transforming ambiguous accusation into actionable pressure and accelerating moral compromise for the administration's strategic survival.

Appearances in the Narrative

When this object appears and how it's used

2 moments

S1E9 · The Short List

One-in-Three: The Allegation that Can't Be Denied

The tape of the on-air allegation is the tangible anchor that turns rumor into evidence; Leo asks for it explicitly, Margaret reports it is being retrieved, and the tape's impending arrival frames the need for factual verification before public comment.

Before: Recorded broadcast exists off-site (press/media circulation); not in Leo's possession and being located by staff.

After: In the process of being delivered to Leo's office (retrieved but not yet played or acted upon within the scene).

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S1E9 · The Short List

Toby Seizes the Crisis — Split Over How to Answer Lillienfield

A tape of the on‑air allegation is referenced as incoming evidence — Leo asks for it, Margaret confirms it is being fetched, and the tape functions narratively as the material proof that escalates rumor into verifiable, playable accusation.

Before: Recorded and in the possession of an external party or the press; not yet delivered to Leo's office but known to exist and 'being retrieved.'

After: Still en route or held by a staffer retrieving it; its arrival is anticipated but it has not yet been played or presented within the scene.

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