There were rumours to suggest that the writers of the show intended to have Vinick win the election and thus become the next POTUS. And this was decided way before the death of John Spencer!
True or not, it would have been quite fascinating to see Vinick take over the reigns from Bartlet, and pursue his more moderate conservatism on the nation. But as it is Santos wins, albeit by the closest of calls, and Democrat continuity remains within the halls of the West Wing.
The handling of Leo's death was also remarkable well done, especially when it placed his closest friends under the spotlight, such as CJ, Bartlet, Annabeth and of course Josh. (Although surprisingly there was no mention of Jenny, his ex wife, or Jordan, his ladyfriend from seasons 3/4)
It probably hit Josh hardest because he was the one that suggested putting Leo's name forward as candidate for VP, despite having a massive heart attack only months previously. And now Josh is going through an emotional guilt trip, thinking that he pushed Leo too hard and probably caused his death because of it.
I especially liked the very final scene where Josh is on his own in the campaign office looking at a montage of photos of campaign staffers. He then see a picture of Santos and Leo with their hands held high as they're about to embark on the campaign trail.
All Josh can do is whisper "Thanks, Boss!"
A poignant moment, and very much a reality-check for a hotheaded young Turk like Josh.
True or not, it would have been quite fascinating to see Vinick take over the reigns from Bartlet, and pursue his more moderate conservatism on the nation. But as it is Santos wins, albeit by the closest of calls, and Democrat continuity remains within the halls of the West Wing.
The handling of Leo's death was also remarkable well done, especially when it placed his closest friends under the spotlight, such as CJ, Bartlet, Annabeth and of course Josh. (Although surprisingly there was no mention of Jenny, his ex wife, or Jordan, his ladyfriend from seasons 3/4)
It probably hit Josh hardest because he was the one that suggested putting Leo's name forward as candidate for VP, despite having a massive heart attack only months previously. And now Josh is going through an emotional guilt trip, thinking that he pushed Leo too hard and probably caused his death because of it.
I especially liked the very final scene where Josh is on his own in the campaign office looking at a montage of photos of campaign staffers. He then see a picture of Santos and Leo with their hands held high as they're about to embark on the campaign trail.
All Josh can do is whisper "Thanks, Boss!"
A poignant moment, and very much a reality-check for a hotheaded young Turk like Josh.