ABC’s ‘Scandal’ season 5, episode 12 review: Who is Vanessa Moss? Also, ‘the tackle’

Thursday night’s new episode of “Scandal” was almost a classic episode of the series in so many ways. How else would you describe an hour of TV that featured at one point Cyrus and Mellie trying to find a way to question someone perceived by the country as a hero?

The main story for tonight’s episode were the heroics of Governor Vargas, a man who may be thrust onto the political stage because of a hostage situation that he navigated. He was shot, but was able in due time to overtake his captor and leave as a national hero. Don’t you think that this guy is going to become an almost-immediate contender to the American people?

As for the Olivia Pope storyline, we learned tonight that she is suddenly interested not only in Jake Ballard, but the woman he is seeing in Vanessa Moss. That is something that will probably be picked up on during the next new episode, though we’re going to see plenty more of Fitz’s love life soon! Abby read him the riot act over his personal life yet again becoming public knowledge. Maybe it’s a good thing that he is moving on from Olivia and Mellie, but who knows how long it will last?

Speaking of romance, let’s talk about the Sleazy Romance of the Week: David decided to be with Susan Ross, who announced her candidacy for President. This was all a part of Liz North’s grand plan, which we assume is of course to give her more power.

Yes, the word “Rowan” was mentioned and we really did care for Charlie being around much at all this week, but at least the political stuff was fun and we’re starting to see the race for President become all the more fascinating. Episode Grade: B+.

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