Scandal: - Season 5eps21

: After a season of being sidelined, Cyrus maneuvers himself into the VP slot for the Democratic ticket, solidifying his role as a primary antagonist for the upcoming election. Finale Impact

selects Jake Ballard as her VP candidate, a move orchestrated by Olivia to save Jake from her father’s control.

: She officially steps into her father’s shoes, becoming the powerful "handler" behind the scenes. Her decision to place Jake on Mellie's ticket is a tactical win against Rowan, though it sacrifices Jake's desire for a normal life. Scandal - Season 5Eps21

: President Fitz finally learns Olivia’s "big secret"—her abortion—which leads to a moment of shared understanding rather than a typical explosive confrontation. Major Character Shifts

chooses Cyrus Beene as his running mate, marking Cyrus's successful return to a position of power. : After a season of being sidelined, Cyrus

: Jake attempts to escape Rowan Pope’s influence, even sending a secret plea for help to Olivia via Edison. Rowan, however, maintains his "master of the universe" status by forcing Jake into the political spotlight to secure a half-billion-dollar inheritance.

: The episode revolves around the Republican and Democratic candidates finalizing their tickets. Her decision to place Jake on Mellie's ticket

The episode sets the stage for the final seasons by establishing two formidable tickets: vs. Francisco Vargas/ Cyrus Beene . It effectively closes the chapter on Fitz’s presidency and transitions Olivia from a "fixer" to a political mastermind mirroring the methods of her father.