Ruthless and cunning, Congressman Francis “Frank” J. Underwood (Kevin Spacey) is a Democrat from South Carolina’s 5th congressional district and the House Majority Whip. He’ll stop at nothing to execute his devious plans and reach higher office. His wife Claire (Robin Wright) runs a water non-profit and is beginning to doubt her role as a loyal political wife. Underwood helped ensure the election of President Garrett Walker (Michael Gill), who promised to appoint Underwood as Secretary of State. However, before Walker is sworn in, Chief of Staff Linda Vasquez (Sakina Jaffrey) announces that the president will not honor the agreement and will instead nominate Senator Michael Kern. Furious at Walker’s betrayal, Underwood and his wife make a pact to destroy Kern. Zoe Barnes (Kate Mara) is a reporter for the The Washington Herald and is desperate for a break. US Representative Peter Russo (Corey Stoll) is a Democrat from Pennsylvania’s first congressional district who becomes allies with Underwood.