The BEST episodes of Political Animals

Every episode of Political Animals ever, ranked from best to worst by thousands of votes from fans of the show. The best episodes of Political Animals!

Sigourney Weaver portrays Elaine Barrish, a divorced former First Lady and Governor of Illinois, as well as the current Secretary of State. While the lead character does have some similarities to Hillary Clinton, Weaver has said in interviews that the show is "very much about families who have been in the White House and the price they've paid for being in the White House and the fact that families who have been in the White House often try to get back in the White House or continue to try and get in the White House.

Last Updated: 11/6/2024Network: USA NetworkStatus: Ended
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16 Hours
star
7.97
221 votes

#1 - 16 Hours

Season 1 - Episode 5 - Aired 8/12/2012

Elaine's attention is torn between catering to T.J. and a Chinese submarine rescue mission. She also makes a deal with Susan allowing her unlimited access to the rescue mission in exchange for her discretion about T.J.

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Second Time Around
star
7.79
323 votes

#2 - Second Time Around

Season 1 - Episode 2 - Aired 7/22/2012

Douglas discovers Elaine has plans to run for office again as T.J. revisits his old habits and hits rock bottom. Elaine has Bud negotiate for the lives of Iranian hostages, placing him back into the spotlight.

Directors: Bethany Rooney
Writer: Molly Newman
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star
7.70
212 votes

#3 - Resignation Day

Season 1 - Episode 6 - Aired 8/19/2012

In the Season 1 finale, Elaine's plan to resign hits a snag and her resignation letter leaks to the press. Elsewhere, Douglas confesses his betrayal and makes a rash decision; and a surprising event leaves everyone at a crossroads.

Directors: David Petrarca
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The Woman Problem
star
7.70
235 votes

#4 - The Woman Problem

Season 1 - Episode 3 - Aired 7/29/2012

Elaine makes an announcement to her family; the Hammond men visit a pollster during an impromptu fishing trip; Garcetti enacts a plan that puts Elaine in conflict with her longtime mentor; and Susan shares her top-secret story with Alex.

Directors: Michael Morris
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Pilot
star
7.64
359 votes

#5 - Pilot

Season 1 - Episode 1 - Aired 7/15/2012

In this series opener, the US Secretary of State tries to protect a shocking family secret all the while dealing with an Iranian hostage crisis.

Directors: Greg Berlanti
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Lost Boys
star
7.61
222 votes

#6 - Lost Boys

Season 1 - Episode 4 - Aired 8/5/2012

T.J. recounts the events that lead up to his suicide attempt while dealing with his family's lack of interest in his club opening. Douglas struggles to cope with his betrayal and meanwhile, Elaine has a diplomatic crisis on her hands upon her return from overseas.

Directors: David Petrarca
Watch Now:AmazonApple TV