In this humorous political thriller, two presidental candidates battle for the Repulican nomination. William Russell is a wit and scholar with high liberal principles, beloved of the eggheads and suspect for practical politicians. Joseph Cantwell is ruthless and hard-driving, a fighter who will not let scruples trump his ambition. Ex-President Hockstader's endorsement is critical, but who will he support.

Each candidate has information to destroy the other; one is sure to use it, while the other must decide whether to compromise. The candidates' wives also have important roles to play as the decision comes down to the last minutes of a hotly contested national convention.