5 things to binge-watch this weekend: Election edition

It's almost over.

As hard as it is to believe, this wild, unwieldy and exhausting election season is about to come to a close. But before the states are colored in red and blue on Tuesday night, you might as well have one last hurrah with a bunch of fictional politicians this weekend.

We've rounded up five shows and movies to watch to celebrate the 2016 election season in all its glory. And if you're sick of politics, we've got a pick for you, too.

If you want to hope: The West Wing's election episodes 

From Jed Bartlet's great debate in Season 4 to Matt Santos's rousing convention-floor speech in Season 6, The West Wing knows how to inspire you. By the end of a nice binge you may find yourself writing in some of the candidates from the show.

Stream The West Wing on Netflix.

If you have no hope: Veep's election episodes

It's been a depressing election season. Why not lean in? Veep does not assume all politicians are idealists trying to make the world a better place. Veep assumes all politicians are conniving and ambitious and thoughtless and will do anything to get ahead. It might just hit the spot this year.

Stream Veep on HBO Go.

If you're an Anglophile: The Crown

If you'd like to take a break from democracy, why not try the monarchy across the pond? Netflix has a dazzling new series following the early years of Britain's Queen Elizabeth II, the current and longest-ruling monarch. Politics is just a bit juicier when there's love and marriage and fancy dress involved.

Stream The Crown on Netflix.

If you like The West Wing but only have two hours: The American President

Before he was President Bartlett, Martin Sheen spent time in another White House staff created by Aaron Sorkin. The West Wing creator wrote The American President first, about a first-term president running for re-election while dating a lobbyist. It's got the same kind of inspiration as the show, but in a tighter, more romantic package.

Stream The American President on Amazon.

If you want something that has literally nothing to do with politics: Supergirl

We get it. You're tired. You've been hearing nothing but cable news for months. You're depressed. You want happiness. And sunshine. And you don't want to hear the words "margin of error" ever again. Take a trip to sunny National City and fly around with Kara Zor-El in the most optimistic show on television. If you need counter-programming to the darkness of this election season, no show is better.

Stream Supergirl on Netflix.

You can scroll through more of our binge recommendations below (see our last edition here).