The hottest U.S. Politics Substack posts right now

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Have the Democrats Learned Nothing?

Life Since the Baby Boom • 922 implied HN points • 04 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political parties Elections Political strategy
  1. The Democrats seem to be repeating past mistakes instead of learning from them. Many people believe they are doing what has already failed them.
  2. In the 1980s, the Democratic Leadership Council was formed to make the party more centrist after major losses. This shows that they have faced similar challenges before.
  3. History may repeat itself again, with a possible clash between moderate and activist members within the party. It will be interesting to see how this unfolds.

The reason of crowds

Wrong Side of History • 436 implied HN points • 18 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Public Opinion Dictatorship Historical Analysis
  1. People often hide their true feelings in a dictatorship because they fear punishment. This leads to a situation where everyone thinks they are alone in their beliefs, even when many share the same opinion.
  2. Once a few individuals find safety in expressing their true thoughts, it can create a chain reaction. This 'preference falsification cascade' can lead to rapid change, like revolutions, when many join in revealing their real feelings.
  3. Sometimes, people who were neutral or even against a regime will quickly switch sides to avoid repercussions. This can lead to extreme actions from those who were once passive, just to align with what seems to be the winning side.

January 21, 2026

Letters from an American • 29 implied HN points • 22 Jan 26
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Executive Branch Immigration Civil Rights Law enforcement Foreign Policy Judiciary Elections
  1. The president's rambling, hostile Davos speech and threats to prosecute people over the 2020 election raise serious concerns about his fitness for office and suggest he may try to use the justice system for political revenge.
  2. Immigration enforcement has grown more violent and aggressive, with agents detaining children, using force that may have caused deaths, and expanding detention operations across multiple states.
  3. A secret DHS/ICE memo appears to authorize warrantless home entries, undercutting Fourth Amendment protections and sparking whistleblower disclosures and congressional scrutiny.

Who Cares Wins

Wrong Side of History • 360 implied HN points • 15 Jul 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Terrorism Religion Ethics International relations Radicalization
  1. Morality can be affected by what people value and believe. When people feel there's a lack of guidance, they may turn to extreme actions.
  2. People often become radicalized by a strong sense of duty and loyalty to their beliefs. They see their actions as a form of protection for their community.
  3. Understanding why individuals choose violence can help in finding ways to address their motivations and prevent such actions in the future.

DOGE In the States

Points And Figures • 879 implied HN points • 18 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Entrepreneurship Tax policy Venture Capital
  1. Many government programs aiming to help entrepreneurs are seen as wasteful and do not deliver real results. It's often just a way to create jobs for government employees.
  2. Entrepreneurial ecosystems work best when driven by the private sector rather than government involvement. Government interference tends to complicate matters and can limit growth.
  3. Accountability in the private sector is focused on solving customer problems efficiently, while government often prioritizes expanding control and influence, resulting in wasted resources.
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The Trump EO on Grant Payments

Points And Figures • 959 implied HN points • 29 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Executive orders Government spending Economic Policy
  1. Many states and cities are worried about funding due to Trump's Executive Order on grant payments. They are concerned about how they will manage their budgets.
  2. A lot of government money goes to projects that might not be necessary or useful. There's a big issue with wasteful spending, which affects those who genuinely need support.
  3. Startups, especially in the medical field, are worried about losing funding because of this order. It makes it harder for them to develop new treatments and grow their businesses.

PROJECT SYNDICATE: Trump's Smoke & Mirrors

Brad DeLong's Grasping Reality • 884 implied HN points • 09 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Analysis Media Studies Public Policy Trump administration Political Commentary
  1. Trump's actions often focus on getting attention rather than creating real change. Many of his plans are more about performance than effective policy.
  2. The media needs to separate Trump's true policies from his showmanship, but many outlets are caught up in the drama instead.
  3. Trump's potential policies could harm the economy, and it's crucial for clear information to be shared so the public can understand the impact.

Politics and Capitalist Stagnation

Unpopular Front • 73 implied HN points • 04 Dec 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Economy Labor relations Class politics Neoliberalism Capitalism
  1. The economy has been stagnant for about 50 years, with profits declining because of competition from newer capitalist countries like China. This situation has left too much supply and not enough demand, which is bad for businesses.
  2. As a result of this stagnant economy, many capitalists are focusing more on politics to make money, rather than investing in actual production. This shift is called 'political capitalism' where they seek profits from political connections instead of traditional means.
  3. Workers are divided into different groups, mainly between those with professional credentials and those without. This split affects how they relate to political parties and policies, making social and economic agreements harder to achieve.

A Modest Proposal To Turn Canada Into a Narco State

Cremieux Recueil • 344 implied HN points • 30 Jul 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Drug policy Healthcare Pharmaceuticals Economics
  1. The proposal suggests that Canada could become a pharmaceutical hub for the U.S., selling cheaper drugs to help both economies. This could fix economic struggles in Canada while providing affordable medicine for Americans.
  2. The current pricing plan in the U.S. can lead to higher drug prices elsewhere, affecting global availability and creating issues for both consumers and pharmaceutical companies. Finding a better price strategy that works for everyone is essential.
  3. The FDA has a program that could allow importing Canadian drugs to the U.S., but it needs major changes to be more effective. By redesigning this program, both countries could benefit from lower prices and increased pharmaceutical production.

You don't need Epstein's list; you need to listen to women

Men Yell at Me • 357 implied HN points • 27 Jul 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Discourse Justice System Public Perception Media influence
  1. Listening to women's voices is crucial in discussions about abuse and justice. Their stories matter and deserve to be heard.
  2. The focus on Epstein's client list often turns into political arguments rather than a genuine fight for victims' rights.
  3. Many politicians use the issue for their own gain instead of truly caring about the real victims of abuse.

Pentagon’s Secret Teacher Training Reveals Defiance of White House Directives, Contractors as Backdoor to DEI

OpenTheBooks Substack • 13 implied HN points • 10 Feb 26
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Education & Policy Federal Agencies DEI Policy Parental Rights Transparency
  1. Outside contractors and professional groups are being used to push equity-focused DEI ideas and to turn students into advocates, including guidance that affirms students' gender identities.
  2. Agency staff appear to resist White House anti-DEI directives by renaming programs (for example calling SEL “resilience”) and using contractors and societies as a backdoor to keep the same practices in place.
  3. Parents and policymakers need full transparency of training materials, contracts, and curricula so officials can review partners, cancel misaligned agreements, and rebuild trust.

Some Current Things

In My Tribe • 394 implied HN points • 29 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Media Education Party Politics Finance
  1. There is growing leftism and anti-Israel sentiment within the Democratic Party. Winning elections seems to be shifting the party's beliefs more to the extreme.
  2. Instead of just banning technology in schools, some suggest completely rethinking the school system. Innovative projects can significantly cut down time students spend in traditional classrooms.
  3. Stablecoins are gaining importance in the economy. They are starting to play a role similar to cash, helping manage government debt and being linked to illegal activities.

Dingus of the week: Everyone who is mad about Zohran Mamdani

Men Yell at Me • 439 implied HN points • 27 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Socialism Political Commentary Campaigns Government Policy
  1. There's a movement in NYC for socialism that aims to raise wages and make life more affordable, which some people are reacting to negatively.
  2. Backing politicians who support corruption is seen as hypocritical, especially when they disregard kindness and community support.
  3. The conversation around social issues is getting heated, but it encourages discussions that could help improve society.

Democrats Are Still Getting Rolled by Their Interest Groups

Richard Hanania's Newsletter • 1462 implied HN points • 11 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Political parties Political strategy Labor relations
  1. Interest groups have a strong influence on the Democratic party, often guiding their decisions and actions.
  2. Political strategies focusing on character and rhetoric might overlook the importance of representing wider coalitions.
  3. Recent labor strikes, like the one involving longshoremen, highlight the challenges Democrats face when balancing interest group demands with broader voter concerns.

The Conservative Worry

In My Tribe • 1184 implied HN points • 23 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory Revolution Conservatism Governance Leadership
  1. There's a concern that Trump’s style is more about radical changes than traditional conservatism. This could lead to extreme actions rather than stable governance.
  2. People in leadership roles, like running the Defense Department, need to have experience managing other managers. Without this experience, they might struggle to lead effectively.
  3. The new appointments might focus on what they want to change, but managing large organizations is hard, and mistakes could happen if they move too quickly.

Putting Israel First, Rubio Victimizes Harmless Student Over Op-Ed

Stark Realities with Brian McGlinchey • 476 implied HN points • 01 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Immigration Free speech Foreign Policy Civil Rights Political Activism
  1. Marco Rubio has been accused of unfairly targeting foreign students who criticize Israel, using actions like deportation and imprisonment to silence their voices.
  2. The case of Rumeysa Ozturk highlights concerns about free speech, as she faced severe consequences for an op-ed she co-authored about Israel's actions in Gaza.
  3. The broader issue raises questions about rights and due process, with the fear that government actions could silence not just foreigners, but also American citizens who express similar views.

My Ancestors Fled Ukraine. It Was America That Allowed Me to Return.

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 834 implied HN points • 23 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy National Security International relations Government Leadership
  1. America's support for Ukraine is fading, as leaders are discussing withdrawing help and making unfair demands. This shift worries many who believe it sends a bad message to the world about U.S. commitments.
  2. The new U.S. administration has made sudden moves to negotiate peace in Ukraine without involving Ukrainian leaders, which seems like a betrayal. This has raised concerns about Ukraine's sovereignty and security.
  3. Some U.S. officials are suggesting that Ukraine may need to give up land and will not be allowed to join NATO, which plays into Russia's hands and goes against the interests of Ukraine.

Are the Epstein Survivors creating false memories?

Michael Tracey • 102 implied HN points • 25 Nov 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Legal issues Media Critique Political Activism Public awareness
  1. Wendy Avis, an alleged Epstein survivor, has come forward publicly, but she hasn't shared specific details about what happened to her. This raises questions about the credibility of her claims.
  2. Many survivors, like Wendy, have reportedly begun to speak out after years of silence, often prompted by legal and therapeutic encouragement. This has led to concerns about the reliability of their memories.
  3. There is a connection between the financial incentives for survivors and their willingness to recount traumatic experiences. This can complicate the public's understanding of their stories.

National Socialism and the New German Speech Police

eugyppius: a plague chronicle • 115 implied HN points • 15 Nov 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Authoritarianism Political Debate Historical comparisons Civil Liberties
  1. Germany is seen as an authoritarian place now, and many people compare its current state to the Nazi era, but those comparisons can be misleading.
  2. While making these comparisons might rattle those in charge, they often don't provide an accurate picture of what's happening today.
  3. It's important to find new ways to question and challenge the government rather than relying on old comparisons.

They are so "pro-life", they'll starve kids to prove it.

The View from Rural Missouri by Jess Piper • 477 implied HN points • 27 Dec 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Child welfare Republican Governor
  1. Republican-led states are declining federal funds meant to feed hungry kids, showcasing a concerning trend of prioritizing political agenda over the well-being of children.
  2. Instances of states like Missouri and Nebraska refusing funding to address child hunger highlight a larger issue of incompetence and lack of compassion within certain GOP-run administrations.
  3. Governor Kim Reynolds of Iowa made a shocking statement suggesting that poor kids in her state do not need food aid during the summer because they are supposedly obese, emphasizing a disturbing lack of empathy in policies affecting vulnerable children.

Top Links 750 The foreign trade agenda of US states. Namibia's green dreams. ‘Sex, Drugs and Zombies’ & Brood XIV

Chartbook • 500 implied HN points • 26 May 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Trade policy Energy Policy Environmental Issues Foreign Relations
  1. Different U.S. states have their own foreign trade goals that can impact the economy. It's important to understand how each state's agenda plays a part in the bigger picture.
  2. Namibia is working towards being more environmentally friendly, showing that even developing nations can have green ambitions. This highlights the global push for sustainability.
  3. There are various interesting cultural pieces out there, including discussions about sex, drugs, and pop culture elements like zombies. These topics can reflect different aspects of society and what's trending.

It ain't over 'til it's over

Adam's Legal Newsletter • 419 implied HN points • 16 Jan 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Legal Abortion Intervention Standing
  1. The judge's ruling allowing intervention in the mifepristone case is considered an abuse of discretion and faces criticism for being based on weak arguments and misinterpretation of legal principles.
  2. The states filed a motion to intervene in the case to continue prosecution if private plaintiffs lose standing, but their arguments for intervention are criticized for being speculative and lacking legal basis.
  3. The judge's reasoning for granting intervention is flawed, showing errors in assessing timeliness, prejudice, and the impact of the district court's judgment on future actions.

Why Women Rebel against Pro-Life

Richard Hanania's Newsletter • 5169 implied HN points • 11 Apr 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Abortion Reproductive Health Legislation Women's Rights Political strategy
  1. The abortion issue has been a negative for Republicans and a strong issue for Democrats, impacting elections.
  2. Women experience pregnancy and childbirth with significant physical and emotional challenges, making abortion regulations a matter of personal autonomy and rights.
  3. Pro-life stances create concerns about government intervention, privacy, and the intentions of those pushing for restrictions, especially seen in the context of women's autonomy.

Salman Rushdie Faces His Alleged Attacker

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 876 implied HN points • 12 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Judiciary Crime Free speech Cultural Conflict Media
  1. Salman Rushdie was attacked on stage and suffered serious injuries, including being stabbed 15 times. This attack left him with partial use of his left hand and loss of vision in his right eye.
  2. During the trial, Rushdie detailed his experience and shared the painful reality of his injuries with the jury. He displayed his glasses to show the effects of the attack on his eye.
  3. The key question in the trial is whether his attacker acted alone or as part of a larger agenda connected to Iran. This raises important discussions about the motivations behind such violent actions.

How tied are Charlotte leaders’ hands on spending tourism tax money?

The Charlotte Ledger • 412 implied HN points • 18 Jan 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Community projects
  1. Charlotte and Asheville have different approaches to spending tourism taxes, with Asheville using the money for greenways, parks, and possible affordable housing and transit.
  2. Charlotte justifies spending tourism tax money on sports facilities, while Asheville has found ways to use it for various community projects.
  3. Asheville successfully broadened the use of tourism tax money through consensus building and changing laws, showing how local leaders can impact funding decisions.

If I Ran the DOGE

In My Tribe • 1199 implied HN points • 17 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Structure Political Reform Executive Branch Public Administration Policy Analysis
  1. Reorganizing the government can make it more efficient by reducing the number of management layers and clarifying who is in charge. This could lead to better decision-making and less wasted effort.
  2. Creating a Chief Operating Officer to manage executive branch operations would help streamline authority and reduce overlap between agencies. This would allow a focus on running the government smoothly.
  3. The government could be simplified by cutting down from many agencies to just eight main ones, which would help eliminate redundancy and make it easier to manage services for the public.

Dingus of the week: The Epstein Files

Men Yell at Me • 375 implied HN points • 18 Jul 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Elections Political Commentary Media Conspiracy
  1. The Epstein files, which may contain important information about powerful people, have not been released, raising questions about accountability and transparency.
  2. Some conspiracy theorists are angry with Trump for not delivering the files they believed would expose a supposed cover-up.
  3. The article highlights the irony of people believing extreme conspiracy theories while doubting women's testimonies, showing a clear bias in how truth is perceived.

Bret Stephens averts his eyes.

INDIGNITY • 412 implied HN points • 18 Jan 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Opinion
  1. Bret Stephens expresses moral outrage over genocide accusations against Israel
  2. Stephens questions the politicization of genocide accusations
  3. The article delves into the complexities of moral indignation and accusations during conflicts

Operation Drumbeat

Unpopular Front • 102 implied HN points • 12 Nov 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Election Strategy Political media Right-wing Politics Civic engagement Propaganda
  1. The Republican Party has shifted focus from experienced policy experts to propaganda and influencers. This has led to a new style of politics driven by media personalities rather than traditional politicians.
  2. Influencers like the Libs of TikTok are using their platforms to target individuals and stir up controversy, causing real harm in communities. Their actions highlight a troubling connection between social media and state responses.
  3. Both major political parties are losing touch with their traditional roles, as they become dominated by consultants and agitators. This weakness could spark a movement that emphasizes civic engagement and community activities.

The Great Confinement

OK Doomer • 347 implied HN points • 25 Jul 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics History Eugenics Racism Fascism Policy
  1. Fascism has deep roots in American history, influenced by race laws and policies aimed at Native Americans long before it appeared in Europe. These ideas shaped actions in both the U.S. and Nazi Germany.
  2. The eugenics movement in America was popular and supported by many, even reaching influential figures and organizations. This movement promoted harmful policies that aimed to exclude and sterilize those deemed 'unfit'.
  3. Throughout history, societies have often confined or excluded people who don't fit certain norms, treating them as undesirable. Recognizing this pattern can help us understand and confront ongoing injustices today.

Trust the Border Patrol

Adam's Legal Newsletter • 359 implied HN points • 06 Feb 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Judicial system Supreme Court
  1. The Supreme Court, by a 5-4 vote, vacated an injunction that restricted the Border Patrol from cutting a fence near the Rio Grande. Governor Abbott disagreed with the decision, claiming Texas's constitutional authority above federal statutes.
  2. Texas put up concertina wire fences near the border to stop illegal immigration, leading to clashes with Border Patrol officials who cut the fences. Issues arose as to whether cutting the fence was justified in enforcing federal immigration law.
  3. The Fifth Circuit granted an injunction to Texas to stop the cutting of the fence, but the Supreme Court, in a 5-4 vote, vacated this injunction without providing any explanation, sparking disagreement and criticism.

The PPI wants kids to know that America is good, actually

In My Tribe • 379 implied HN points • 02 Jul 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Ideology Education & Policy Civic engagement Social Cohesion Democratic Norms
  1. There's a push to help kids understand and appreciate American traditions and ideals in schools. This focuses on uniting various backgrounds and fostering a sense of belonging.
  2. Many young people today feel less positive about America and democracy compared to older generations. Schools are encouraged to improve how they teach what it means to be American.
  3. The project aims to strengthen institutions as a way to counter radical changes in society. It emphasizes the need for balance and constructive dialogue in teaching about America.