Counter Terrorist Unit agent Jack Bauer is assigned to protect presidential candidate David Palmer from a potential assassination attempt. Unfortunately, his daughter has disappeared and someone within CTU may be involved. Mandy seduces Martin Belkin, a photographer headed for a meeting with the Senator.

Jack rushes to the aid of CTU Director Richard Walsh who comes into possession of a keycard and ends up in a shootout. Gaines encounters trouble acquiring Martin Belkin's ID from Mandy. Elsewhere, Kim realises the gravity of her situation.

Jack follows the arrested conspirator to the police station in order to get more info on Kim's whereabouts. Palmer meets with a reporter who has some damaging information. Kim realizes just how dangerous Ira Gaines really is.

Director Green and Regional Director Ryan Chappelle question Jack about the day's events. Nina takes Kim and Teri to a safe house after getting them medical attention. Palmer wants a meeting with Jack.

Jack poses as Alexis Drazen and goes to meet a contact who has vital information. However, a CTU agent with a grudge against Jack might risk the success of the mission. Dr. Parslow takes Teri back to the Bauer house.

Jack discovers a top secret detention center houses someone from his past. Tony takes Teri back to CTU as Kim finds herself in jail. Andre Drazen and his soldiers raid the detention center.

Jack is captured by Victor Drazen and Andre when they escape the detention center. Palmer learns he is dominating the California polls. Drazen's men capture Kim after she is released from jail.

In order to buy himself more time Jack puts Victor and Andre in contact via Mason with a hospitalized Alexis Drazen. Palmer becomes involved with a campaign staffer. Tony and Nina learn that Kim has been recaptured.

Jack delivers a cell phone that is unknowingly rigged to explode to Palmer. Kim manages to escape. The identity of the real mole inside CTU is exposed.