HoC is rumored (though denied from the actors) to be based on B&HC. Then, interestingly enough, BC supposedly said, via Kevin Spacey: "99 percent of what’s seen on “House of Cards” is true."
thehill.com/blogs/in-the-know/237381-kevin-spacey-bill-clinton-backs-veracity-of-house-of-cards
Interesting because Frank and Clair Underwood will do ANYTHING, including murder by their own hands and others' (leaks/lies to press to manipulate the masses, blackmail, sleeping with others, lies, threats), to climb and keep power. They become feared by those around them. They have cronies (chief of staff, others) who do their dirty work (ie. JP), whom they protect sometimes, but would gladly throw to the wolves if it means protecting themselves.
The only thing the show doesn't really touch on is the pedo/cult world.
Otherwise, very good background for current goings on in our political climate.