Chapter 2 Summary

Burnham lives with his wife, Sarah, and his two children, Chris and Derry. Derry and Sarah both criticize Burnham for his role in the White House. They both have strong liberal political views. Derry, in particular, has a strong affection for communism, which frustrates and angers her father. Sarah works for Senator Ted Kennedy. During breakfast, Burnham and his wife have another fight. Their son, Chris, declares that they are headed for divorce. Burnham leaves the house to avoid further confrontation and takes the bus to the White House.

Chapter 2 Analysis

Burnham's home life is presented in the same way as his work life. He considers his family to have very little connection to him personally and does not know how to become more involved or influential in the lives of his children and his wife. Burnham's character takes on a very passive...