Poor Tom Yates (Paul Sparks). As soon as the ambitious, award-winning writer first comes into the Underwoods' orbit back in season three, it's hard not to fear for him. Hired by Frank to write a book about his America Works program, Tom eventually becomes entangled in the power-hungry couple's antics in DC and soon strikes up an affair with Claire. Despite their relationship, the first lady (who has kept her hands virtually blood-free up until now) can't take the risk that her lover's big mouth might threaten Frank's presidency.
She sees her window to dispose of him before the two end up in bed together one night, when she decides to spike his liquor with poison. The chemical doesn't take effect until they're in the middle of getting it on (she refuses to kiss him throughout so she doesn't get poisoned herself), and he ends up literally dying in her arms with one hell of a confused look on his face. Mark Usher, a member of Team Underwood, is forced to get rid of the body later on.
