Michael and the Mayor work around the clock to negotiate an end to the garbage strike, which leaves Stuart in charge of the office, to everyone's dismay. And, though they just moved into a new apartment, life is so hectic that Ashley and Michael never get to see each other.

Michael allows a TV crew into the office for a profile on himself, and one of his quotes lands him in hot water with Ashley. In the meantime, Carter goes behind Michael's back to get the Mayor to green-light a controversial project.

Michael substitutes for the Mayor on a political talk show, facing off against Ashley on a hot-button issue. Meanwhile, Paul plays City Hall Santa while battling a terrible bout of the flu that is sweeping the office. And everyone finds themselves going to Carter for romantic advice.

While acting as the Mayor's divorce lawyer, Michael is attracted to his opponent, Laurie Parres. Meanwhile, the press thinks Paul has suffered a nervous breakdown, so Michael enlists a psychiatrist, Dr. Benjamin, to pronounce Paul sane. But his plans go awry when Dr. Benjamin unexpectedly commits Paul to an institution.