<P> Although Sam is mentioned occasionally following his departure -- most notably calling Josh to tell him to `` roll with the punches '' after the latter unwittingly caused the defection of a Democratic Senator -- he is not seen in the series until the last episodes of the seventh and final season , following the election of Congressman Matt Santos as President . Resolving the debate over the result of the California 47th 's special election , it is implied that Sam was defeated by Congressman Webb and declined the promotion to Senior Counselor to the President that had been suggested by Toby . After summarily quitting politics , Sam remained in his home state of California and joined an unnamed law firm in Los Angeles which pays him a salary that would `` make ( Josh ) puke '' . </P>
where did sam go on the west wing
joined an unnamed law firm in Los Angeles