Summary
Politicscan be a divisive subject, and ‘political’ is a somewhat nebulous term that can incorporate many ideologies. So let’s start by saying that, in a bid to keep this clean, this list will focus exclusively on drama series that are set in or around a government office, focusing on the machinations of said office in fictitious circumstances, and will disregard anything based on a specific political figure or attempting to elicit a specific political commentary.
The following rankings will take into account the broad audience and critical response as a barometer of the overallquality and entertainment valueof these series. Since the majority of the most popular political drama shows are American, as a final disclaimer, the subject matter is still heavily weighted toward American politics. With all that litigation out of the way, consider thesethebest political drama series to stream.
Starting things out light with a show that barely constitutes a drama,Parks and Recreationis a mockumentary-style sitcom that chronicles the working lives of the Parks Department of Pawnee, Indiana. In particular, it focuses on the dedicated deputy director, Leslie Knope, and her continued battle to improve the lives of her citizens.
The show is not completely devoid of dramatic consequences, but it is primarily a comedy. As the seasons go on, Leslie eventually begins to ascend through the ranks of local government, offering a new perspective on political responsibilities. The show alsoboasts a stellar ensemble cast, including Amy Poehler, Chris Pratt, Nick Offerman, and Aubrey Plaza.
Designated Survivorexplores the unlikely situation that would occur if a lower-ranking Secretary was suddenly thrust into the role of commander-in-chief after a national catastrophe. When an attack on the Capitol building results in the deaths of the President and much of the natural succession line, Housing Secretary Thomas Kirkman must take the reins and attempt to steer his country through the trying times that follow.
He is immediately appointed as the designated survivor, forgoing traditional elections and forcing him to contend with persistingquestions of his legitimacyas he attempts to balance his political objectives, identify the group who attacked his country, and restore order to the nation.
Madam Secretaryfollows the story of a political analyst who must reluctantly rise to the challenge after her former CIA boss puts her forward for the role of Secretary of State. Inexperienced, determined, and idealistic, she must navigate the challenges of her new role in managing international affairs.
The series handles a number of sensitive diplomatic issues that mirror real-world crises but also puts a prominent focus on her home life and personal relationships for levity. As her career progresses, she establishes significant political capital around Washington, leading to a final season titledMadam President.
Shonda Rhimes’Scandalis the series most removed from direct politics on this list. The series is set in a crisis management agency in Washington D.C. that deals directly withpolitical fallout and criminal misconductby prominent representatives and White House staff.
The first season is very much a pilot season. Fans looking to give it a try will have to stick with it until the second season, at least, when the show really finds its footing.Scandalcovers a lot of espionage and subterfuge, with the agency’s lead, Olivia Pope, finding herself in the crosshairs on more than one occasion.
3Borgen
The Danish Prime Minister
This series is another international hit for Danish public broadcaster DR, which also producedThe Killing.Borgenis an informal name for the Christianborg Palace, where all branches of parliament reside in Denmark, and it provides the setting for the series.
Borgentells the story of the rise of an embattled minor politician, Birgitte Nyborg, who becomes the first woman to assume the role of Danish Prime Minister. After a surge in popularity, the show was recently renewed fora new season on NetflixcalledBorgen Power & Glory, continuing the story of Nyborg, who is now foreign minister.
A classic American TV drama about the lives of a group of dedicated White House staff trying to inspire democracy and deliver the American dream to their citizens.The West Wingrefers to a particular area within the White House where the Oval Office and several other high-profile offices reside, which is the main setting of the show.
The subject matter is political by nature, but the crux of the narrative centers around the ensemble cast and a myriad of personal stories and challenges that bond them in their mission to deliver for the people. With a star-studded cast and the creative talents of Academy Award-winning screenwriter Aaron Sorkin,The West Wingwas a huge critical success. It is still regarded as one of the best TV shows of all time, with 100 accolades collected in its seven-season run.
It was probably impossible to completely avoid controversy with this list, asHouse of Cardshas the unfortunate association with its now-disgraced lead actor, Kevin Spacey. That might understandably put some fans off, but prior to the allegations,House of Cardswas an incredibly popular political drama that helpedlaunch Netflixas a streaming giant.
It’s akin to Shakespeare’sMacbethbut set within the framework of modern politics. Amoral congressman Frank Underwood is determined to consolidate power at all costs with the help of his equally ambitious and conniving wife. Shady deals, political subterfuge, and outright lawbreaking abound as Frankclimbs the ranks into the top officein the country. Sadly, since Spacey’s departure was unplanned, the show does suffer from a hastily cobbled-together final season that somewhat unceremoniously ends the saga.
