When a show begins, the main cast usually signs for five years. According to creator Rod Lurie, Donald Sutherland didn't want to commit for that long, so he and Lurie made a deal. Ironically, the show got canceled after just one season.
Mackenzie Allen: So I say to the people of this nation: I am humbled by your greatness. I am humbled by the history being made here today, humbled by the notion that I am the first woman to hold this office. I'm humbled by the responsibilities that rest with me.
Grace Bridges: If Moses had been a woman, leading the Jews out of Egypt, she'd have stopped to ask for directions. They would've found Israel within a week.
Mackenzie Allen: I'm going to go out there, and I'm going to take the oath of office. I'm going to run this government... and if some Islamic nations can't tolerate a female president, then I promise you... it will be more their problem than mine!