Three Political TV Shows Worth Watching
If you're in the mood for a dose of political intrigue, this selection is for you. These three political TV shows skip some heavy drama in favor of sharp humor, thrilling twists, and captivating storylines, making them perfect for a relaxing yet thought-provoking watch. These shows let you escape into fictional political messes that, compared to recent events, might just feel like light entertainment.
Scandal (2012-2018)
How about casting your vote for Fitzgerald Grant III?
One of the most striking political dramas of the past decade, Scandal introduced us to the powerful and unstoppable crisis manager Olivia Pope, played by Kerry Washington. The show delivers bold characters, unexpected twists, and a deep dive into the dirty secrets of Washington’s elite. The first four seasons can be considered a cornerstone of Shonda Rhimes’s golden era—a true classic. But, as with many long-running shows, it eventually loses its spark, turning into a melodrama with plot twists for the sake of twists and endless "what are we to each other?" moments between the main characters.
Despite its later seasons, Scandal is undeniably worth watching for its ambitious storytelling and impressive impact.
8/10
The Good Fight (2017-2022)
Kicking off with the shocking aftermath of Trump’s election in 2016, The Good Fight dives headfirst into the turbulent political landscape that followed, setting the stage for an ugly exploration of modern America. This political-legal drama takes the familiar world of The Good Wife and amps it up, tackling contentious issues with wit, audacity, and unrestrained social commentary. Christine Baranski shines as Diane Lockhart, an attorney who must now navigate a justice system seemingly more chaotic than ever, where law and politics are inextricably tangled.
With its timely storylines that often mirror or even predict real events, The Good Fight embraces an absurd world full of idiots who need to be saved, punished, or pretended not to exist. Although the show occasionally leans into surrealism, its intelligent writing and fearless critique keep it grounded and compelling, making it a standout in both the legal and political drama genres.
8/10
Veep (2012-2019)
At first, Veep feels like a weird detour from the typical TV show—it’s packed with rapid-fire insults, painfully awkward missteps, and a total lack of morals. But once you get the humor, there’s no going back. This biting political satire, starring the incomparable Julia Louis-Dreyfus as the hilariously incompetent Selina Meyer, turns the world of American politics into a circus of self-serving, shameless ambition—and it’s impossible to look away (it’s also impossible not to draw parallels with today, but let's move on).
Each episode is packed with razor-sharp dialogue and painfully accurate portrayals of the absurdities of power. Veep holds nothing sacred, gleefully exposing the utter ridiculousness of those running the country. The result? A hysterical, brutal mirror that makes real-world events seem frighteningly believable. Once you catch onto Veep’s brand of chaos, you’re hooked for good.
9/10
