A Definitive Ranking of Political Dramas

Can't get enough of this circus we are calling the 2016 Presidential election? Don't worry, cable can answer all of your prayers. I study Political Science, I currently work for a political organization, and I live in D.C.; it's fair to say that I have a slight obsession with politics. If I'm not studying PoliSci or working in D.C., I'm probably glued to a political drama. I mean, I did write an entire blog post just about House of Cards. But Kevin Spacey isn't the only one out there who is playing a corrupt politician. So, with House of Cards in the coveted #1 spot, here is my definitive ranking of political dramas:

1. House of Cards (Netflix) HOC follows the rise (and fall, perhaps) of the predatory politician Frank Underwood as he manipulates his way through power, politics and love and is a wonderfully addictive show. #FU2016
2. BrainDead (CBS) This satirical embodiment of the extreme political polarization in Congress might be one of the greatest things I've ever seen. A Hill staffer notices that there is something strange causing extreme partisan tensions among Congressmen and she sets out to save the government from the ultimate shutdown. Basically, it's political drama meets sci-fi meets satirical late night and it's fantastic.
3. The Royals (Hulu/E!) Just as in Frank Underwood's world, in the world of the monarchy, power is everything. This show, set in modern day London, follows a fictional British Royal family who inhabits a world of opulence and regal tradition that caters to any and every desire, but one that also comes with a price tag of duty, destiny, and intense public scrutiny. It's just as binge-worthy as HOC.
4. The Man in the High Castle (Amazon Prime) This is a fantastic Amazon Prime original that might just have one of the best pilots I have ever seen. The show is based on a book written in the 1960s that envisions what the world would be like if Nazi Germany won World War 2.
5. Newsroom (Amazon Prime/HBO) This show gives you a behind-the-scenes look at the production of a nightly, controversial newscast. Will, the show's host, is stubborn and outspoken but proves to be a dynamic character. It's a good, original show.
6. Scandal (ABC) This drama, based on a true story, follows the career of Olivia Pope as she starts her own crisis-management firm. I was really into this show for two seasons but then it started revolving too much around the love life of Olivia Pope rather than the political world of the "fixer" business. People keep telling me I should give it another try, though.
7. Veep (HBO) This comedic show follows the life of US VP Selina Meyer as she tries to pass legislation while avoiding the day-to-day political games of Washington. It's a decent show, but it's really not my type of comedy. I'd say it's more of a show for in the background than for an intense binging sesh.  
8. Political Animals (USA) While this show only had one season, it was a pretty good one season. The show deals with the issues of a former first family who is still trying to remain relevant in the ever-changing political world.
9. Madam Secretary (CBS) This show follows the life of the newly appointed Secretary of State, after the suspicious death of her predecessor. I'd say don't waste your time. The plot line was kind of interesting but I couldn't get past the terrible acting. 
10. Homeland (Showtime) This show follows Carrie, a rogue CIA agent, as she becomes convinced that a prisoner of war has turned into a double agent. In my opinion, this show is absolutely terrible. I can't stand watching actress Claire Danes who severely over-acts and the plot line is just all over the place.

This fall I'm looking forward to trying out Designated Survivor, Graves, and Notorious. Who knows, there might be a rankings update coming soon!

Be sure to let me know in the comments if you think I'm missing any shows or disagree with any of my rankings!

*Political dramas on my "To Watch List": The West Wing, Covert Affairs, Alpha House, 1600 Penn, State of Affairs, The Americans, Quantico