1. They can't drop the issue of the dam because it's a major political scandal involving corruption and kickbacks, and it's central to the plot that Senator Paine is trying to cover up.
2. Governor Hopper's children believe Jefferson Smith should be nominated instead because they see him as honest and idealistic, unlike the corrupt politicians they know.
3. Jeffrey Smith reacts to his nomination with shock and humility, expressing disbelief and gratitude, and he gives a heartfelt speech about how he will try to live up to the honor.
4. Senator Smith wanders off to the Lincoln Memorial in the train station, seeking solitude and inspiration.
5. The newspaper interview goes poorly; Smith is unprepared, naive, and gives answers that make him look foolish, which the reporters exploit for sensational headlines.
6. Ms. Saunders will get a bonus if she successfully manipulates Jeff Smith into supporting the Willet Creek Dam bill without realizing it’s a corrupt scheme.
7. Mr. Smith initially tries to be polite and cooperative with the newspaper reporters but becomes increasingly frustrated and overwhelmed by their aggressive questioning and misrepresentations.
8. Senator Joseph Paine tells Jeff Smith to focus on building relationships with other senators and learning the “unwritten rules” of Washington politics instead of studying bills.
9. Ms. Saunders and Senator Joseph Paine are worried about the Creek because the dam project is fraudulent — it’s designed to enrich Paine and his allies through land speculation, and its exposure would ruin them.
10. Ms. Saunders reveals that Susan took out Jeff Smith because she was attracted to him and saw him as a genuine, decent man who could be manipulated for political gain.
11. Jim Taylor responds with a cynical laugh, saying, “You mean you tell these men and Senator Paine what to do?” implying that Smith is naive to think he has any real power or influence over them.
Parent Tip: Review the logic above to help your child master the concept of mr smith goes to washington worksheet.
