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The Contender ( 2000) is a disturbing political thriller about a Democratic President who, in the wake of his Vice President's death, is seeking the confirmation of his replacement. President Evans considers nominating a loyal governor, Jack Hathaway, to the position. When he witnesses a car drive off a bridge, he tries to save the driver and fails, the President drops him, claiming that his admininstration can't afford another Chappaquiddick. He then taps a talented female Senator as his running mate, only to see her accused of sexual immorality by Republicans, possibly with the help of his first choice for VP. Refusing to dignify the ever-escalating attacks with a response, the Vice-Presidential nominee poses a tough question: would having adventuresome sex as a college student even be an issue at all if she were a man? This movie is a chilling depiction of a modern-day witchhunt.
"Sometimes you can assassinate a leader without firing a shot."
Shelly Runyon: We're both sticking to our guns. The difference is, mine are loaded.