8 TV Politicians Who Totally Get Our Vote

Even though election coverage can be just as exciting as watching a riveting soap opera, sometimes you just want to escape and lose yourself in the world of fictional politics. That's why there's no shortage of government hot shots on TV. Some are highly corrupt, some are moral superstars, but most of them are endlessly entertaining.  Here, we shout out 8 beloved TV politicians we honestly wouldn't be surprised to see as write-in candidates on a ballot someday.  

Leslie Knope, 'Parks and Recreation'

Combine a gung-ho attitude, an undying love for breakfast food, and the most loyal friend anyone could have and you get Leslie Knope. A candidate who supports free cookies at every street corner is a candidate we can get behind.

Selina Meyer, 'Veep'

We know Selina's not the most competent of leaders, but she does spit out some of the sickest burns on the planet... so points for creativity? "I'd rather set fire to my vulva, so that's a no" would be a pretty badass way to veto a bill. 

Taylor Doose, 'Gilmore Girls'

As Stars Hollow Town Selectman, Taylor is super annoying and introduces a lot of unnecessary rules, but you have to admit he controls one of the most charming fictional TV show towns we have ever laid eyes on. A Living Art festival? A Knit-a-thon? A Haybale Maze? It seems like there's a celebration every single day (is the budget astronomical?), but it's all so darn pleasant nobody should really complain. (We're looking at you, Luke.) We could all use more Snowman Building contests and 24 Hour Dance-a-Thons in our life, to be quite honest. 

David Palmer, '24'

When Dennis Haysbert talks, you listen. How could you not be mesmerized by that deep and commanding voice? But vocal modulation aside, Palmer was cool as a cucumber, tough, and incredibly assured. Yes, he had Jack Bauer to help him through some ridiculous situations, but we have to give him credit where credit is due. 

Richard Wilkins, 'Buffy the Vampire Slayer'

Sunnydale's clean-cut Mayor was like a Norman Rockwell representation of a local government official on the outside and a dark arts sorcerer the inside. So what if was also a demon? That's politics, baby. You gotta play both sides. 

Josiah 'Jed' Bartlet, 'The West Wing'

Unwavering idealism, integrity, and compassion make this beloved "West Wing" president a true American hero. He's also funny, speaks four languages, and has a Nobel Prize. He's so inspiring that sometimes we revisit his most memorable monologues just to get through a hard day.

Laura Roslin, 'Battlestar Galactica'

Outer space politicians count too, so of course we have to include the fearless leader of the Twelve Colonies. Suddenly thrust into a high pressure situation (Cylons are no joke, people), she soldiered on with patience and tenacity despite her illness. Haters be damned. 

Joseph Quimby, 'The Simpsons'

Sing it with me, now! "Without a Mayor Quimby, our town would really stink. We wouldn't have a tire yard or a mid-sized roller rink. We wouldn't have our gallows or our shiny Bigfoot trap. It's not the mayor's fault...that the stadium collapsed!" You heard the campaign ad, folks. Corrupt Mayor "Diamond Joe" Quimby's track record isn't exactly stellar, considering he has a history of bribery, mob involvement, embezzlement, and extramarital affairs. But, remember: "If you were running for Mayor, he'd vote for you." Can't argue with that.