In general, government shows are boring. I watched E-Ring a couple of times also. Same result - Zzzzzzz.
The only recent exception I can think of is 24. Now a 24 style government program might be interesting. If Ted Kennedy threatens a fillibuster which will consume the next 12 episode, Jack Bauer could just kneecap him and demand an immediate vote.
I gotta disagree with you on E-Ring.
I liked the show. The plots were believable and the acting was good.
But it looks like NBC has put that show on hiatus too.
Now that episode would get ratings through the roof.
Kinda disappointed in 24 making the President the bad guy. Weak, vacillating, and unsure, okay, but actively evil?