Frank Underwood, a ruthless Congressman, and his ambitious wife Claire, are determined to climb the political ladder. Frank's primary goal is to become Vice President, while Claire seeks to advance her own agenda, often through manipulation and strategic alliances. Their ascent is fueled by a willingness to do whatever it takes, including eliminating anyone who stands in their way.

The season's central conflict revolves around Frank's power plays and his escalating war with wealthy businessman Raymond Tusk, who wields significant influence over President Walker. Frank orchestrates events to undermine Tusk, leading to a trade crisis with China and forcing President Walker into difficult decisions. Key turning points include Frank silencing journalist Zoe Barnes by pushing her in front of a train, and the shocking revelation that Lucas Goodwin, investigating Zoe's death, finds no proof of Frank's involvement. Later, Lucas is arrested for cyberterrorism after being lured into a trap.

The season culminates with Frank orchestrating the downfall of President Walker. After Walker resigns amidst impeachment proceedings, Frank Underwood is sworn in as the President of the United States, solidifying his ultimate ambition.

Season 2 of House of Cards covers episodes 1-13. Here's everything that happened:

Season 2, Episode 1: Chapter 14 - Frank, nearing his VP confirmation, silences Zoe Barnes by pushing her in front of a train. Claire undermines Gillian's lawsuit by sabotaging her health insurance. Doug relocates Rachel. Frank secures Jackie Sharp as his Whip replacement. The episode concludes with Frank's chilling direct address, acknowledging his audience.

Season 2, Episode 2: Chapter 15 - Frank is sworn in as Vice President. He manipulates trade talks with China, angering Raymond Tusk. Jackie Sharp schemes to become House Majority Whip. Lucas investigates Zoe's death, but finds no proof of Frank's involvement. Claire reveals she was raped in college, causing Frank to struggle with his composure at a military ceremony. The episode concludes with China cutting off trade talks with the U.S.

Season 2, Episode 3: Chapter 16 - Tensions escalate between Frank and Raymond Tusk as the situation with China worsens. Frank maneuvers in the Senate to pass a bill, even resorting to having senators arrested and dragged to the floor. Lucas seeks a hacker to find evidence against Frank. The episode concludes with President Walker announcing the bill's passage in the Senate. Claire notices Christina getting close to the President.

Season 2, Episode 4: Chapter 17 - A terror scare at the Capitol traps Frank in quarantine with Donald Blythe, whom he tries to sway on a crucial vote. Claire faces a CNN interview alone, admitting to a past abortion and revealing it was the result of being raped by General McGinnis. Lucas is lured further into a trap by Gavin, who is working with the feds. The episode concludes with Frank and Claire sharing a smoke.

Season 2, Episode 5: Chapter 18 - Frank sabotages trade negotiations with China to undermine Tusk. Claire faces scrutiny over her abortion. Lucas is arrested for cyberterrorism after falling into a trap. Seth Grayson leverages Claire's secret to join the Underwoods' staff. The episode concludes with Frank escalating his war against Tusk.

Season 2, Episode 6: Chapter 19 - Amidst an energy crisis, Frank and Tusk's alliance crumbles as they vie for power over President Walker. Lucas Goodwin, determined to expose Frank, refuses a plea deal, enlisting Hammerschmidt to publish his story. Janine Skorsky is coerced into discrediting Lucas. Doug's control over Rachel intensifies as she seeks solace elsewhere. The episode concludes with Lucas facing imprisonment and isolation.

Season 2, Episode 7: Chapter 20 - Frank discovers Raymond Tusk is funding attack ads against President Walker. Frank cozies up to Walker, while Claire manipulates the First Lady. Seth Grayson is hired as the new communications director, replacing Connor Ellis. Connor is offered a job in the private sector and quietly resigns. Tusk and Remy plot against Frank and Claire.

Season 2, Episode 8: Chapter 21 - Frank leverages the Gaya tribe against casino owner Dan Lanagin while pushing for the Port Jefferson Bridge. Linda Vasquez resigns after clashing with Frank over the bridge. Remy and Tusk retaliate by leaking Claire's affair with Adam Galloway to the press. The episode concludes with the scandal breaking and Frank's position seemingly secure, but Tusk's counter-move threatens the Underwoods.

Season 2, Episode 9: Chapter 22 - Claire's affair with Adam becomes public, leading the Underwoods to lie about commissioning the photo. Remy pressures Adam to release another photo by threatening his fiancée's father. Freddy's past is revealed, and Frank distances himself, ending their friendship. Tusk's ruthlessness escalates as he kills a bird, signaling a new level of war.

Season 2, Episode 10: Chapter 23 - Frank leaks information to Ayla Sayyad about Tusk's money laundering. Walker faces a military standoff with China. An ex-Marine targets Claire with a bomb threat due to her stance on abortion. Doug's obsession with Rachel intensifies, while Gavin tracks his movements. The episode concludes with Rachel reading to Doug.

Season 2, Episode 11: Chapter 24 - Frank faces scrutiny from a special prosecutor, Heather Dunbar, regarding campaign finance irregularities. Doug's obsession with Rachel intensifies, leading him to spy on her. Claire's efforts to продвигать her bill are complicated by Megan's instability. The episode concludes with a threesome involving Frank, Claire, and Meechum.

Season 2, Episode 12: Chapter 25 - Frank finds himself sidelined by President Walker, who now understands Frank's manipulations. Claire withdraws her military sexual assault bill to manipulate Jackie Sharp. Doug pressures Rachel to end her relationship with Lisa. Frank convinces Jackie to support Walker's impeachment. The episode concludes with Frank quoting Shakespeare as he solidifies his plan.

Season 2, Episode 13: Chapter 26 - Frank Underwood's machinations reach their apex as Garrett Walker resigns from the presidency amidst impeachment proceedings. Frank secures his position by convincing Tusk to implicate Walker. Meanwhile, Doug Stamper is attacked by Rachel in the woods. Frank is then sworn in as President of the United States.