10 Best Political TV Shows, Ranked
10. Designated Survivor
What would happen if a low-ranking cabinet member suddenly became President of the United States? ‘Designated Survivor’ answers that question through Tom Kirkman (Kiefer Sutherland), a mild-mannered Secretary of Housing and Urban Development who unexpectedly ascends to the presidency after an attack on the Capitol wipes out the government’s leadership. As Kirkman navigates the immediate chaos, political power grabs, and threats to national security, viewers get a gripping drama about leadership under extreme pressure.
9. The Diplomat
Keri Russell stars as Kate Wyler, a career diplomat suddenly thrust into the spotlight as the new U.S. ambassador to the United Kingdom, and a potential Vice Presidential candidate. In ‘The Diplomat,’ Wyler must juggle international crises, a turbulent marriage to a political superstar, and intense political scrutiny. The series combines emotional drama with geopolitics, revealing the complexity of diplomacy and the personal costs of public service.
8. The Man in the High Castle
Based on Philip K. Dick’s novel, ‘The Man in the High Castle’ imagines an alternate history where the Axis powers won World War II and the U.S. is split between Nazi Germany and Imperial Japan. In this oppressive dystopia, resistance movements and mysterious films showing alternate realities spark hope and fear. The show delves into themes of authoritarianism, propaganda, and resistance, offering a chilling look at how politics and power could play out in a dark parallel world.
7. Madam Secretary
‘Madam Secretary’ follows Elizabeth McCord (Téa Leoni), a former CIA analyst turned Secretary of State, as she tackles international diplomacy, government bureaucracy, and domestic politics—all while balancing life as a wife and mother. The show blends timely political issues with personal storylines, offering a behind-the-scenes look at the complexities of U.S. foreign policy and the ethical challenges faced by those in high office.
6. Veep
For a satirical and sharply funny take on politics, ‘Veep’ stands tall in the TV game. Julia Louis-Dreyfus stars as Selina Meyer, a Vice President and later President, who is as self-serving as she is hilariously inept. The series mocks the vanity, backstabbing, and absurdities of American politics with biting wit. With its rapid-fire dialogue and cringe-inducing political gaffes, ‘Veep' is a comedy that exposes the human flaws behind the podium.
5. Scandal
Created by Shonda Rhimes, ‘Scandal’ centers on Olivia Pope (Kerry Washington), a former White House communications director who starts her own crisis management firm. Pope and her team of “fixers” handle everything from sex scandals to murder cover-ups, all while uncovering dangerous secrets about the political elite. With fast-paced storytelling, shocking twists, and steamy subplots, ‘Scandal’ is part political drama, part thriller, and wholly addictive.
4. The Newsroom
While not strictly a political show, ‘The Newsroom’ focuses on how news coverage shapes and reflects politics. The series follows anchor Will McAvoy (Jeff Daniels) and his team as they strive to produce high-integrity journalism in a sensationalist media landscape. Through real-world events, impassioned speeches, and ethical dilemmas, the show critiques modern media and underscores the responsibility of the press in a democracy.
3. House of Cards
‘House of Cards’ is a dark, stylish look at power and ambition in Washington, D.C. Kevin Spacey stars as Frank Underwood, a ruthless congressman who manipulates, schemes, and eliminates obstacles on his path to the presidency. With its Machiavellian tone and complex character dynamics, the show peels back the layers of political strategy, corruption, and betrayal. Just don’t take notes from Frank’s playbook, unless you're plotting world domination.
2. The Crown
Though focused on the British monarchy, 'The Crown’ offers deep insights into governance, diplomacy, and the political pressures faced by royalty. Spanning decades, it chronicles the reign of Queen Elizabeth II, juxtaposing personal struggles with landmark events like the Suez Crisis, Thatcherism, and the rise of Diana. The series is a masterclass in historical drama, showing how tradition and modernity collide in the halls of power.
1. The West Wing
‘The West Wing’ remains a gold standard in political television. Set in the White House under fictional President Josiah Bartlet (Martin Sheen), the series portrays the daily lives of senior staffers as they grapple with policy, crises, and idealism. Known for its intelligent writing, fast-paced dialogue, and optimistic tone, the show presents a vision of politics as a noble, albeit messy, endeavor. It’s both aspirational and deeply human.
