The hottest U.S. Politics Substack posts right now

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How the Democrats can fight back against MAGA

Noahpinion • 15764 implied HN points • 25 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Partisan Politics Political strategy Democratic Party Election Dynamics Civic engagement
  1. Democrats need to offer a clear and sensible alternative to Trump's economic policies. People are worried about inflation, and they want a plan to manage it.
  2. It's important for Democrats to protect democracy and free speech. They have to stand up against any overreach by political leaders who threaten these values.
  3. The party should move away from the divisive issues of the past decade and focus on what benefits everyone. Working towards collective goals can help regain voter trust.

The Media's Mental Gymnastics Before Election Day

Erick Erickson's Confessions of a Political Junkie • 1159 implied HN points • 02 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Media Elections Public Opinion Political Commentary Economy
  1. The media often interprets statements from public figures differently depending on their political stance. They might exaggerate comments from one side while downplaying those from another.
  2. There have been significant issues with job growth lately, with reports showing a very low number of jobs created. Most of the new jobs have been in government, which doesn't help the overall economy much.
  3. As the election approaches, media coverage tends to focus on distractions instead of important economic issues. This affects how voters perceive the situation.

All These Israeli Agendas Were Planned Long In Advance

Caitlin’s Newsletter • 526 implied HN points • 26 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy Military Affairs Political Commentary International relations Geopolitics
  1. Israel has clear long-term goals in the Middle East and they are taking military actions to achieve them. This includes strengthening their position in Syria and Lebanon while pushing for changes in Gaza and the West Bank.
  2. The narrative around military and political support often has misleading implications. Support for certain countries or actions can sometimes be used to justify violence against innocent people.
  3. There are skeptical views on public figures and their true motives, especially in politics and media. People should be cautious about trusting narratives that seem convenient for powerful interests.

Only fools think Elon is incompetent

Noahpinion • 54000 implied HN points • 23 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary Public Figures Media Analysis Society
  1. Elon Musk is highly intelligent and has proven his capabilities through successful companies like SpaceX and Tesla. People underestimate him at their own risk.
  2. Real-world skills, like building organizations and inspiring teams, are more important than test scores for success in business. Elon excels in these areas.
  3. Criticism of Elon often stems from jealousy or misunderstanding of his talents. Just calling him 'dumb' won't change the reality of his achievements.

The Free Press Presents: America at 250

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 2397 implied HN points • 04 Jul 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics National Identity Civic engagement Public Discourse
  1. America is celebrating its 250th birthday, and it's a time to appreciate the country's achievements and freedoms. It's important to reflect on both the good and bad aspects of the nation's history.
  2. Despite some challenges, many Americans still believe their lives would not be possible without the opportunities this country provides. It’s a diverse place with people from various backgrounds.
  3. Throughout the year, there will be events and podcasts discussing America's history and freedoms. This is a chance for everyone to celebrate and engage with these topics together.
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Sunblock

Doomberg • 11128 implied HN points • 14 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Energy Policy Environmental Issues Legislation State Politics Public Safety
  1. California's energy system is struggling because it has shifted away from reliable sources like nuclear and natural gas in favor of solar power. This change has made it harder to manage the electricity supply effectively.
  2. A major fire at California's large battery storage facility caused serious environmental damage and highlighted the risks of relying too much on green energy solutions without a solid backup plan.
  3. The government's new bill may worsen California's energy crisis by cutting tax credits for green energy projects, which could halt new installations and leave the state without enough power during peak demand times.

Important Announcements

The Upheaval • 1952 implied HN points • 14 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Policy International relations Political theory Public Administration
  1. A book titled 'Control: The Global Rise and Coming Fall of Managerial Tyranny' is coming soon. It will be an expanded version of previous work on managerialism.
  2. The Substack will be paused indefinitely while the author takes a senior policy role at the State Department. Subscription payments are frozen, but the content will remain accessible.
  3. The author feels it's important to take action in today's world rather than just discuss issues. They hope to return to writing in the future.

If It's Worth Your Time To Lie, It's Worth My Time To Correct It

Astral Codex Ten • 33931 implied HN points • 11 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Discourse Misinformation Social Issues Rhetoric Public Opinion
  1. If someone lies to make their argument stronger, it's important to correct that lie. Even small lies can add up over time and change the conversation.
  2. Correcting false statements can be seen as nitpicking, but it's essential to reset the truth. Allowing exaggerations or false claims can lead to more extreme misconceptions.
  3. It's okay to be kind when correcting others, but we should not shy away from addressing inaccuracies just because it might seem uncomfortable.

America is being sold out by its leaders

Noahpinion • 53471 implied HN points • 21 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy Political alliances Economic Policy National Security
  1. There is a concern that America's leaders are making choices that could weaken the country, particularly in foreign relations. If the U.S. were to focus on itself and ignore global involvement, some believe it could hurt its standing in the world.
  2. Some political figures think their vision aligns better with countries like China and Russia than with traditional allies. This shift could lead to a more isolationist approach, where the U.S. limits its international influence.
  3. People worry that the U.S. might reduce military strength and abandon industrial policies, which could harm the economy. Cutting defense spending and focusing on raw materials rather than manufacturing could make the country rely more on other nations.

I’m Finally Hanging My American Flag

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 7076 implied HN points • 03 Jul 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Patriotism Activism Identity History Culture
  1. The author grew up in an environment that viewed the American flag and patriotism negatively. Their upbringing focused on social justice and activism rather than celebrating the flag.
  2. The author's perspective changed over time, leading them to finally hang the flag outside their home, which signifies a shift in how they relate to their country's symbols.
  3. The flag has personal significance for the author, tied to the memories of their grandparents, yet they struggle with the conflict between national pride and historical injustices.

As We Stare Down the Precipice, Final Ruminations

Simplicius's Garden of Knowledge • 10571 implied HN points • 31 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Media Public Opinion Political parties Trust
  1. A significant change is happening in the political landscape, particularly with the upcoming election, which could have far-reaching consequences. Many people are anxious about whether this change will bring chaos or improvement.
  2. Major media outlets have chosen not to endorse any presidential candidate this election, which is unusual and signals a loss of confidence in the current leadership and candidates.
  3. Trust in journalists and media has fallen to alarming low levels, even below Congress. This reflects a growing disconnect between media narratives and the public's beliefs about accuracy and truth.

Harris’s Lost Week

Erick Erickson's Confessions of a Political Junkie • 2298 implied HN points • 01 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Political Analysis Campaigning Public Opinion Media influence
  1. Kamala Harris's speeches and actions during a crucial week seemed overshadowed by Joe Biden's controversial remarks. This created confusion and drew attention away from her message.
  2. Donald Trump was actively campaigning and making headlines, which left Harris and the Democrats trying to play catch-up. Trump's visibility and campaigning style were noticeably more vigorous.
  3. There are signs that Democrats may be struggling with voter enthusiasm, especially among key voter groups. Despite some polls showing enthusiasm, early voting results suggest weaknesses in support.

What if super AI happens during Trump's presidency?

Faster, Please! • 91 implied HN points • 06 Mar 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Policy Governance Technology AI
  1. The idea of super AI becoming a reality during Trump's presidency is being discussed, but it wasn't a major issue in the 2024 election. People might start hearing more about it in the future.
  2. Experts believe we could see very capable AI systems soon, possibly during Trump's second term. This could change how we think about jobs and technology in our daily lives.
  3. As AI technology advances, it will be important for government leaders to plan for its impact. Understanding how AI will affect society should be a priority right now.

With Kennedy on Board, This is What a Trump Win Will Mean for Democrats

Popular Rationalism • 1367 implied HN points • 01 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Public Health Political parties Pharmaceuticals Vaccine Safety
  1. A Trump win could force the Democratic Party to rethink its ties with the pharmaceutical industry. This may lead to more transparency and accountability in health policies.
  2. Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is seen as a potential leader who could push for a health agenda focused on questioning the status quo and prioritizing public health over profit.
  3. The public is becoming more aware of vaccine safety issues, and this awareness may change how health policies are formed and implemented in the future.

No Kings

Thinking about... • 754 implied HN points • 16 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Activism Protests Civil Rights History Government
  1. We want freedom from kings and powerful leaders because they often put their needs above ours. Freedom means a government that truly works for the people.
  2. History shows that the fight for freedom is a long journey, filled with struggles against oppression. It teaches us that we need allies and to listen to each other.
  3. Protests are just the start of the work for freedom. They remind us that we can stand up and take action together for change.

‘Listen to the Science’: A 75-Year-Old Warning About the Phrase

The Take (by Jon Miltimore) • 138 implied HN points • 02 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory Public Policy Environmental Policy Ethics Health Policy
  1. When people say 'listen to the science,' they often mean 'listen to our plans.' Science can inform us, but it doesn't dictate what we should do.
  2. The economist Ludwig von Mises pointed out that science can't tell us what actions to take; it can only explain what is happening.
  3. Many debates around issues like climate change and COVID-19 are less about science and more about ethical choices, showing that not every problem has a simple scientific solution.

My Views of the Trump Administration

David Friedman’s Substack • 287 implied HN points • 04 Mar 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy Trade policy Immigration Political Philosophy
  1. The Trump administration has mixed reviews, with some seeing it as a disaster and others viewing it as a necessary change towards less government control and more individual choices.
  2. Tariffs and immigration policies under Trump are seen as not beneficial, especially since tariffs may harm trade and the economy.
  3. Foreign policy is a huge concern, especially with Trump's approach of potentially reducing support for Ukraine and NATO, which could risk European stability.

Bari Weiss: American Regeneration

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 5439 implied HN points • 02 Jul 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics History Media Independence Culture Journalism
  1. The importance of unity is highlighted through Benjamin Franklin's cartoon from 1754, which called for American colonies to come together against common threats. Fighting together was seen as crucial for survival back then.
  2. The cartoon represents America's early form of media and communication, showing how ideas could spread before modern technology existed. It was like the first American meme when it was published.
  3. As we celebrate Independence Day, it's a reminder not just of historical events, but of the ongoing choice to uphold the values of freedom and togetherness that those events represent.

The Saturday Read: The velvet curtain

The Saturday Read • 119 implied HN points • 02 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Election Analysis Political culture Populism Party Dynamics Geopolitics
  1. The rise of pop political movements, like MAGA and Thatcherism, show that they can reshape party identity and power dynamics in profound ways. This isn't just a short-term trend; it's likely to stick around.
  2. There's a real worry about the growing alignment of countries in the Brics group, which could change how global politics work. Many leaders aren't addressing this potential shift, leaving concerns about balance of power.
  3. North Korea sending troops to help Russia in Ukraine raises alarms, especially for neighboring countries like South Korea. It's a reminder of how tensions can escalate and lead to a larger conflict.

THE SHOW NOTES: Stenographers Revolt, Kamala's Employment Data Problem, & What Is Happening at CNN?

Erick Erickson's Confessions of a Political Junkie • 879 implied HN points • 01 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Government Media Campaigns Public Policy
  1. Job growth in the U.S. has slowed down a lot, with only 12,000 new jobs added in October. This is a big drop from what experts expected, which could hurt the Harris campaign's message about the economy.
  2. The White House changed a transcript to remove comments made by President Biden that insulted Trump supporters. This has caused a disagreement with the federal stenographers' office over transcript accuracy.
  3. CNN faced backlash for allowing a guest to mock JD Vance's family struggles during a discussion. This was seen as disrespectful, given the serious background of addiction in his family.

Like 2008—but Better

Magic + Loss • 477 implied HN points • 01 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Public Opinion Political trends Democratic Party Campaigns
  1. Democratic excitement for the upcoming election is higher than it was in 2008, with 77% of Democrats feeling enthusiastic. This shows a strong positive shift compared to the 50% enthusiastic in 2016.
  2. The energy and enthusiasm can be seen in rallies and public engagement, indicating that this election could be pivotal.
  3. Experts believe this enthusiasm for the election is significant and might play a crucial role in the outcome.

ATW Livestream Tonight at 8 PM ET/7 PM CT

TK News by Matt Taibbi • 1703 implied HN points • 24 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Legislation Government Media Policy
  1. There will be an ATW livestream event tonight at 8 PM ET, where important topics related to the FBI and national security will be discussed. It's a chance to hear insights from knowledgeable voices.
  2. Kash Patel has been confirmed as the new FBI director, and Dan Bongino is set to be the deputy director. This could impact how the FBI operates, especially in politically charged situations.
  3. The discussion will also cover the role of the Internet in news coverage and MSNBC's recent changes, which may interest those following media developments.

One big thing the legacy media gets wrong

Noahpinion • 28412 implied HN points • 18 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Media Analysis Public Discourse Social media
  1. Legacy media often confuses analysis with opinion, missing the need for deeper insights. Readers want clear explanations and forecasts, not just opinion pieces.
  2. Substack and similar platforms allow writers more freedom to explore topics in depth. This contrasts with traditional print media, which usually limits writers, making it harder to provide thorough analysis.
  3. Many people are tired of the constant opinions in the media and prefer thoughtful analysis instead. Legacy publications could become more relevant by shifting focus to this type of content.

What I'm Reading

In My Tribe • 531 implied HN points • 16 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory Conservatism Literature Trumpism
  1. The book 'Furious Minds' explores the MAGA New Right and profiles various scholars who support Donald Trump. It highlights how these figures have gained influence in conservative circles.
  2. The author categorizes these scholars into three groups: Postliberals, Claremonters, and National Conservatives, each with unique reasons for supporting Trump. They have different views on markets and governance.
  3. There's a noticeable lack of prominent conservative voices in academia outside of specific institutions, which may make the conservative community appear more like a tight-knit group. This raises challenges for conservative thinkers.

It's time for Europe to stand up

Noahpinion • 39412 implied HN points • 16 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy Defense Strategy Political Commentary Democracy issues International relations
  1. Europe needs to take on more responsibility for its own security since the U.S. is focusing on threats in Asia instead of Europe. It's time for European countries to step up and lead.
  2. There are major concerns about Europe's internal values and democratic principles. Leaders are worried that Europe might be losing sight of its core values and need to address these issues.
  3. To face threats like Russia and improve its economy, Europe needs to boost military spending and strengthen its economy. Better cooperation between countries and attracting skilled immigrants could help.

Political Messaging is Ambient Now

Freddie deBoer • 4053 implied HN points • 02 Jul 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Messaging Social media Public Perception Urban Issues
  1. People often act like they aren’t worried about crime when they actually are. It’s common for those living in cities to downplay serious issues just to seem cool or part of a group.
  2. Social media shapes political views more than traditional media. The constant chatter and performance online can distort real issues, making them seem less important.
  3. Ignoring public concern about crime can hurt political strategies. If political parties can't control the narrative, it leaves them exposed to misunderstandings and backlash.

Bipartisan Coalition Finally Tells Europe, and the FBI, to Shove It

TK News by Matt Taibbi • 11592 implied HN points • 21 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Legislation National Security Bipartisanship Privacy Technology Policy
  1. A bipartisan group in the U.S. is pushing back against foreign demands for encrypted user data. This marks a significant change in the way American leaders view privacy and security.
  2. The UK's Investigatory Powers Act allows its authorities to access encrypted data, making it easier for them to monitor citizens. This has raised concerns about privacy and government overreach.
  3. For years, there wasn't much opposition to government requests for encryption access. Now, key politicians are rekindling the debate, which could lead to stronger protections for user privacy.

VINDICATED! (sadly). The govt can no longer hide the decline in jobs

COVID Reason • 812 implied HN points • 01 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Employment Economy Government Labor Market Public Policy
  1. Job losses in the private sector are alarming, with 28,000 jobs lost, especially in manufacturing and retail. This shows a real problem in the economy.
  2. Government jobs increased by 40,000, which may cover up serious issues in other job sectors. This is a sign the economy isn't as strong as it looks.
  3. The labor force is shrinking, with many not participating anymore and unemployment rising. This trend is not sustainable and needs urgent attention.

How I Approached Photographing a Trump Rally at Madison Square Garden (And Why I Got Heat For It)

In the Flash • 1938 implied HN points • 31 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Events Photography Election coverage Public Opinion Media Critique
  1. Photographing a Trump rally brings mixed reactions, especially from people on the Left who sometimes assume support based on the photos shared. This can lead to negative comments and unfollows on social media.
  2. It's important to treat everyone with respect when taking photos, no matter their political views. The photographer aims to capture the humanity in people rather than portraying them in a negative light.
  3. Understanding that not all Trump supporters are the same helps to avoid labeling everyone in a group. Many are motivated by personal concerns like economic stability, and it's essential to see them as individuals rather than stereotypes.

Garbage In/Garbage Out

Erick Erickson's Confessions of a Political Junkie • 2138 implied HN points • 31 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Polling Campaigns Political parties Media
  1. The race is very close, and polls show a shift towards Trump, even if some overall numbers may be off. It's important to pay attention to these trends as Election Day nears.
  2. Biden's remark about Trump supporters being 'garbage' could be more damaging to his campaign than a comedian's joke about Puerto Rico, possibly alienating undecided voters.
  3. Early voting numbers for Democrats are concerning, especially among black voters in key states. Republicans are doing better in early voting than in previous elections.

The Failure to Secure Elections

Erick Erickson's Confessions of a Political Junkie • 1378 implied HN points • 31 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Voting Media Conspiracy Legislation
  1. There have been issues with voting technology, like a glitch in Michigan that affected some voters. This has led to accusations from both sides about election integrity.
  2. Some media outlets focus on conspiracy theories without addressing real problems in the election systems, like unauthorized votes and security lapses.
  3. The debate about election security is divided, with one side feeling ignored and the other side accused of spreading falsehoods. This causes distrust in the electoral process.

When There's No Money In The Pursuit Of The Good And No Goodness In The Pursuit Of Money

Caitlin’s Newsletter • 1937 implied HN points • 24 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Wealth Inequality Activism Capitalism
  1. Pursuing good often leads to less money and material comfort, as many helpful professions pay poorly, like teaching and environmental work.
  2. On the flip side, many wealthy people achieve their success through exploitation and harmful practices, which can hurt society and the environment.
  3. This situation shows how our systems reward those who prioritize profit over ethics, meaning the truly good people often go unrecognized while the selfish gain power.

2024 Presidential Election Night Analysis Guide

COVID Reason • 376 implied HN points • 01 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Voting Demographics Political trends Analysis
  1. In the last two presidential elections, small vote margins decided the winners. It shows how every vote really counts.
  2. It's important to watch specific voter groups like Gen Z males and working-class women, as their choices can greatly affect the results.
  3. Each state has different trends and thresholds for winning, so knowing the local demographics can help predict who might win.

How Trump will actually turn America into the 'garbage can of the world'

The Signorile Report • 1478 implied HN points • 31 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Economy Policy Government Media
  1. If Trump wins, he may give Elon Musk the power to cut $2 trillion in federal spending, which could hurt many Americans by affecting key programs like Social Security and Medicare.
  2. Companies are getting ready to raise prices due to Trump's planned tariffs on foreign goods, which could add to inflation just as it starts to ease.
  3. Overall, Trump's policies might undo the strong economy built during Biden's presidency, potentially turning the U.S. into a less favorable place for everyday people.

Trump is Trolling the AP

TK News by Matt Taibbi • 11641 implied HN points • 19 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary Media Criticism Censorship Trump Era Journalism
  1. The Associated Press claims the White House is telling them how to report, which some see as censorship. This seems ironic since the AP has always had strict rules about language in their articles.
  2. People are discussing how Trump is mocking the AP's situation, pointing out the contradiction in their messages about free speech.
  3. There's a lot of debate about what it means for the government and the media to control language and how it affects honest reporting.

After Vance Blasts Europe, the Mask Drops

TK News by Matt Taibbi • 22151 implied HN points • 16 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political speech Propaganda International relations Public Opinion
  1. J.D. Vance's speech at the Munich Security Conference made a big impact and raised many questions. People are encouraged to check it out and think about its meaning.
  2. There's a clear suggestion that propaganda influences how information is shared and understood. It's becoming easier to see how narratives can be shaped by those in power.
  3. Responses to the speech show a strong desire to fact-check and provide context. This highlights the importance of critical thinking when consuming news.

The Right to Vote

Campaign Trails • 4426 implied HN points • 29 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Voting Rights Civil Rights Political History Activism Election Integrity
  1. Voting is really important, and it has a long history of struggle. Many people fought hard to secure the right to vote for everyone.
  2. Some activists even lost their lives while fighting for voting rights. This shows just how much they believed voting mattered.
  3. If voting wasn't important, people wouldn't have had to sacrifice so much to protect it. Everyone should remember the value of their vote.

Ayaan Hirsi Ali: Glastonbury—and the Purge of the Jews

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 6580 implied HN points • 29 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Antisemitism Protests Media International relations Free speech
  1. The Glastonbury festival saw performances intertwined with strong anti-Israel sentiments, showcasing a loud protest atmosphere. Many attendees were actively chanting against the Israeli military.
  2. Some performers used their platforms to express controversial views, including calls for harm against Israeli defense forces. This sparked discussions and backlash across various media.
  3. The coverage of these events highlights a growing trend of linking criticism of Israel with broader social movements, raising concerns about how this affects perceptions of Jewish communities.

The Fight

The Ruffian • 116 implied HN points • 03 Mar 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Analysis Current Events Public Opinion Policy Debate Election Campaigns
  1. Moral outrage is sometimes necessary and ignoring it can feel wrong. It's not always smart to be overly sophisticated about serious issues.
  2. There are often simple truths that are hard to accept, but dismissing them as just tough love is misguided.
  3. It’s important to engage genuinely with significant events rather than adopt a cynical or indifferent approach. Authenticity matters in discussions about serious topics.

CBS Loses Its Mind

TK News by Matt Taibbi • 15007 implied HN points • 17 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Media Criticism Political speech International relations Government Accountability
  1. J.D. Vance gave a powerful speech in Europe defending free speech and democracy, warning that the U.S. may not support Europe if it continues to jail people for speech.
  2. CBS responded to Vance's address by airing a segment that appeared to compare defending free speech with dangerous historical events, which sparked a lot of discussion.
  3. The coverage from CBS seemed more like a political statement rather than a straightforward news report, raising questions about media bias.