The Runner-Up

Clay gets to within striking distance of his Republican opponent, but his lack of finances forces him to venture into dangerous Tea Party territory. As Election Day looms, Clay creates a firestorm with his position on same-sex marriage.

Clay wins a razor-thin primary victory but faces new challenges in the general election. He argues with his team when they want him to run a negative campaign and, desperately short of cash, he holds fund-raisers with "American Idol" winners Ruben Studdard and Fantasia. Clay also prepares for a televised debate.

Aiken begins his run with hopes of being the South's first openly gay congressman but a shocking twist sends him into a tough general election against the incumbent Republican candidate.