Although he prevents Palmer's assassination, Jack is taken into custody where his story of his kidnapped wife and daughter is not believed. Knowing his family will only be kept alive if he is free to help Gaines, Jack knows he must escape. Back at Gaines' compound, Teri and Kimberly struggle to stay alive, while at CTU the traitor reveals that the whole unit has been wired so Gaines can watch their every move.

Jack forces Nina to help with a sting operation against her contact in the hopes that he can lead them to the bomb. Palmer and Mike try to gage Stanton's loyalty when they investigate the chopper crash. George has a final conversation with his son.

Jack locates the man who forged the audio evidence, but his efforts to break him down are sabotaged by Sherry Palmer, who has a hand in the conspiracy. Kim returns to the Matheson home, where she discovers that her problems are far from over. Palmer searches for an ally who will help him get a message out to CTU. Tony and Michelle take Chappelle out of action when he hinders their efforts to help Jack.

Jack reluctantly works with Kim on an undercover job that may help them gain an advantage over Saunders.

Palmer informs his cabinet of the crisis, while Saunders makes yet another demand.

Chase tracks down the man who left the hotel and learns that the virus is spreading to the general public.