Decision 2008 Was The West Wing

President: Republicans nominate conservative irritant
West Wing: Senator Arnold Vinick (California)
Decision 2008: Senator John McCain (Arizona)

President: Democrats nominate milestone candidate
West Wing: Congressman Matt Santos (Texas)
Decision 2008: Senator Barack Obama (Illinois)

Vice President: Republicans placate conservatives
West Wing: Governor Ray Sullivan (West Virginia)
Decision 2008: Governor Sarah Palin (Alaska)

Vice President: Democrats enlist experience
West Wing: Secretary Leo McGarry (Illinois)
Decision 2008: Senator Joe Biden (Delaware)

Democrats advance via crisis
West Wing: Nuclear accident
Decision 2008: Financial crisis