"Commander in Chief":
Could it Become a Reality?
By Kirsten Thomas, 09.29.05

Mackenzie Allen (Geene Davis), is the Independent Vice President of the United States. Through a turn of events Allen is presented the landmark historic decision to become first female president of the United States of America, in the new drama “Commander and Chief.”

Allen is informed by the President's Chief of Staff, Jim Gardner (Harry Lennix), that President Bridges has just undergone emergency surgery for a brain tumor. In the event of the president’s death the party would like her step down and resign. Later during a private meeting with President Bridges (Will Lyman), he asks Allen to resign.

Allen must face the fact that it was never intended for her to be the successor to the presidency. President Bridges chose her as Vice President to win the female vote. As an Independent Allen clearly doesn’t share the party’s ideals.

If Allen resigns the Speaker of the House (Donald Sutherland) will assume the presidency; a possible outcome that makes Allen very uncomfortable.

President Bridges dies before the transition can take place, and Allen reluctantly continues with the resignation process. In a meeting with the Speaker of the House Nathan Templeton that is not only insulting but also sexist Allen is compelled to change her mind.

Allen assumes the presidency and becomes the first female President of the United States of America.

“Commander in Chief” premiered Tuesday, Sept. 27 at 9:00 p.m. on ABC.

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