John F. Kennedy is preparing to run for re-election amongst heightened racial tensions and the defection of support from Southern Democrats. He and his brain trust decide to begin the Kennedy ‘64 campaign in Dallas, TX to show they still intend to be competitive in the Bible Belt.

Meanwhile, Republican support begins pooling around upstart Barry Goldwater despite establishment worries that his brand of inflexible conservatism is irresistible to fringe groups like the John Birch Society.

After an unforeseen tragedy, Lyndon Baines Johnson takes charge.