The hottest U.S. Politics Substack posts right now

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Top U.S. Politics Topics

NZ women, a chance to speak anonymously on air about your experience of encountering a man in your space.

A B’Old Woman • 279 implied HN points • 17 Aug 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Gender Rights Political parties Legislation Public Opinion Media Coverage
  1. Women in New Zealand are given a chance to share their feelings about encountering men in women-only spaces anonymously on air. This opportunity allows women to express their experiences without fear of backlash.
  2. The National Party in NZ is hesitant to take a clear stance on the rights of women and girls regarding single-sex spaces. Despite some members expressing certain views, there seems to be a general reluctance to engage fully in discussions about gender identity.
  3. Winston Peters from the New Zealand First party openly opposes allowing men who identify as women into women’s spaces and sports. He believes this stance is crucial for protecting women's rights in these areas.

Top Links 582 The EU-US divergence. Climate adaptation. Consuming Baghdad. Class is not a thing its a happening.

Chartbook • 414 implied HN points • 09 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Economy Employment Class Climate
  1. There's a noticeable difference between how the EU and US are handling policies and strategies. This divergence affects various areas like trade and climate issues.
  2. As climate change impacts increase, there's a growing need for effective adaptation strategies to deal with these changes. Communities worldwide are developing plans to better cope with climate impacts.
  3. The concept of class is evolving; it's seen more as a dynamic process influenced by current events rather than a fixed social status. This view can change our understanding of social structures.

Inauguration Day counterprogramming

Men Yell at Me • 363 implied HN points • 20 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Climate Mental health Community Impact
  1. Sometimes, people feel overwhelmed by events happening around them, which can make them cry unexpectedly. It's okay to feel your emotions and take time to understand why you're feeling that way.
  2. Worries about family, friendships, and the state of politics can pile up and cause stress. It's normal to be concerned about how these issues affect your loved ones.
  3. Finding comfort in friends during tough times can help you cope better. Sharing meals or experiences with others can lighten your emotional load.

The Submission Chain

Thinking about... • 447 implied HN points • 14 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Political theory Public Policy International relations Political Movements
  1. Submission happens when people accept lies or narratives that aren't true, which can lead to a sense of division in politics. This creates a power dynamic where some feel they 'own' others by repeating these lies.
  2. There's a chain of submission that exists from Trump voters to Trump and then to leaders like Putin and Xi. This relationship suggests that the power structure affects how countries interact with each other, making America weaker.
  3. If the U.S. backs down on supporting Ukraine, it could embolden other countries like China. Supporting Ukraine is crucial not just for its sake but also for maintaining strength against potential threats globally.
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The US Has Taken Sides--Against Democracy

Phillips’s Newsletter • 317 implied HN points • 19 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Policy Leadership International relations Public Opinion
  1. Trump has shifted U.S. policy to blame Ukraine for the ongoing war with Russia. This shows a clear stance against democracy and freedom.
  2. His comments indicate that America is moving away from being a global defender of democratic values. This change has serious implications for countries that depend on U.S. support.
  3. Recognizing that this is the official U.S. government position is crucial. It reflects a broader issue within American politics, and not just Trump's individual beliefs.

Discord Platform: What schools and parents need to know to prevent a school shooting

School Shooting Data Analysis and Reports • 159 implied HN points • 11 Jan 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics School Safety Extremism Social media Law enforcement
  1. School shooters have used Discord to plan attacks, demonstrating how important it is for schools and parents to be aware of potential threats online.
  2. Discord is a platform with a history of being used by extremist groups for planning violence, highlighting the need for vigilance and monitoring for inappropriate content.
  3. The encrypted nature of direct messages on Discord can make it challenging for authorities to access information, emphasizing the importance of early reporting and proactive intervention.

EXCLUSIVE: Public Schoolers Are Paid $1,400 a Pop to Become Social Justice Warriors

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 969 implied HN points • 07 Mar 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Social justice Education Activism Antisemitism Inclusivity
  1. An activist group in California has been paid by a school district to provide equity and leadership training to students and teachers.
  2. The activist group pays high school students to participate in their programs, which are focused on marginalized youth.
  3. Some teachers and parents have concerns about the group's influence and messaging, seeing it as propagandistic and potentially harmful to students' education.

Baked Alaska

Comment is Freed • 112 implied HN points • 11 Aug 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy Trump Ukraine war Russia Relations Political Analysis
  1. Trump is trying to make a peace deal between Russia and Ukraine, but many think it won't work. People feel he's being misled by Putin who isn't very serious about a deal.
  2. There are worries that Ukraine might have to give up land it has fought hard to defend just to please Putin. This makes Ukrainians and Europeans very anxious about the peace talks.
  3. Many believe that any agreement reached will not be strong enough for Ukraine to accept. People are watching closely to see what happens before and during the summit.

Robodebt: When automation fails

Can We Still Govern? • 157 implied HN points • 23 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Public Policy Government Welfare Automation Technology
  1. The Robodebt system in Australia failed because it used bad assumptions that caused serious mistakes, affecting many people negatively. This shows how dangerous it can be to rely on automation without fully testing it first.
  2. When the government tried to recover supposed overpayments, many vulnerable individuals faced harsh consequences, including stress and financial ruin. This highlights how automated systems can create burdens that hurt those who are already struggling.
  3. The lessons from Robodebt emphasize the need for human oversight in automated decision-making. Governments should listen to feedback and warnings from those affected to prevent future failures.

Trump Transition Issues

In My Tribe • 425 implied HN points • 26 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political appointments Economic Policy Bureaucracy
  1. Trump's appointees may struggle because they lack management experience and don't bring their own teams. This can make it hard for them to effectively lead their agencies right away.
  2. Scott Bessent has clear goals for economic growth and budget management. His plan might help improve the economy if implemented well.
  3. There's a debate about government efficiency. Some think we should reward agencies for being cheap and effective, but others believe we need to challenge the way many agencies operate instead.

Our best and worst takes of 2024

Silver Bulletin • 386 implied HN points • 31 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Polling Political Analysis Political Commentary
  1. In 2024, a lot of focus was on the election, which made it hard to cover other topics. It's important to find a balance between major events and a wider range of issues.
  2. Some predictions made during the year were spot-on, especially about political trends and voter behavior. This shows the importance of analyzing data carefully.
  3. Not every post or opinion held up well over time. It's a good reminder that things change, and it's okay to revisit and reflect on past takes.

Further Confirmation the New York Times Peddles Lies

The DisInformation Chronicle • 355 implied HN points • 10 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Media bias Disinformation Political Commentary Journalism Fact-checking
  1. Be skeptical of what you read in major media, like the New York Times. It's important to question the facts presented to you.
  2. Some writers may ignore the reality of significant issues, such as inflation, which can lead to misleading conclusions.
  3. It's crucial to look closely at the evidence behind claims, particularly in areas like science and public health, as not all information is based on strong evidence.

Berkeley’s Culture War : EE vs. FF

The Discourse Lounge • 493 implied HN points • 18 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Local government Public Safety Transportation Policy Community Engagement
  1. Measure FF aims to improve road safety and conditions in Berkeley by funding street repairs and pedestrian enhancements. It is supported by most city leaders and focuses on creating safer streets for all users.
  2. Measure EE is backed by a coalition that opposes bike lanes and limits funding for road safety improvements. It proposes a lower tax but isn't as effective in maintaining pavement quality.
  3. The main conflict is between those wanting a more car-centric urban approach and those advocating for safer, multi-modal transportation. Voting for FF supports progressive road safety for a growing population.

PREEMPT-ive Pardon for Fauci

A Biologist's Guide to Life • 356 implied HN points • 20 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Ethics Government Accountability Legal issues Public Health Pandemic response
  1. A preemptive pardon for Fauci raises serious questions about its legality and ethics. It's unusual to pardon someone before they are even charged with a crime.
  2. Concerns exist that Fauci's actions may have contributed to the COVID-19 pandemic. Investigations have found troubling evidence regarding the research funded by his agency.
  3. The call for further investigation into Fauci's NIAID is essential for understanding the truth about the pandemic. Many believe that stopping these inquiries is like obstructing justice.

The National Security and National Defense Strategies

Who is Robert Malone • 9 implied HN points • 27 Jan 26
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics National Security Defense Policy Foreign Policy Military Strategy Homeland security Industrial Policy Migration policy
  1. The strategy puts American sovereignty first, moving away from broad global intervention and focusing on selective, interest-based engagement to protect core national priorities.
  2. Defending the homeland and the Western Hemisphere is the top priority, treating border security, migration, and narco‑terrorism as national security threats and investing in layered defenses like a ‘Golden Dome’ missile shield.
  3. Peace is sought through deterrence and strength: deter China with a robust Indo‑Pacific posture, demand greater allied burden‑sharing, and rapidly rebuild the domestic defense industrial base.

The Nuclear Reorganization Act

Gordian Knot News • 153 implied HN points • 29 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Regulation Nuclear Government Policy Safety
  1. The proposed Nuclear Reorganization Act aims to replace the current NRC with three new agencies to improve nuclear safety and certification. This could streamline the testing and certification of nuclear designs.
  2. The Nuclear Monitoring Agency will ensure that radiation levels around plants are monitored and reported publicly, helping residents stay informed about any potential risks.
  3. The emphasis is on creating a competitive environment in the nuclear industry while balancing safety with regulation. This approach aims to minimize barriers to entry and foster innovation.

Are You Charismatic Or Charming?

The Ruffian • 460 implied HN points • 16 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Election Analysis Public Figures
  1. Charisma and charm are different. Charisma makes someone seem larger than life, while charm makes them relatable and friendly.
  2. Political figures can succeed with either style, but they should stick to what suits them best. Trying too hard to switch styles can backfire.
  3. It's helpful to know if you are more charismatic or charming, as this can guide your interactions and relationships both personally and professionally.

December 14, 2025

Letters from an American • 25 implied HN points • 15 Dec 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Historic Preservation Legal Challenges Immigration Regulation Labor Rights Ethics
  1. The administration is trying to bypass rules to alter or demolish historic federal buildings and build a privately funded White House ballroom, moving forward without required reviews or public input.
  2. Policy changes are rolling back protections for ordinary people — cutting VA healthcare jobs, weakening chemical safety standards, and stripping union rights — while favoring private and industry interests.
  3. The government is simultaneously shielding wealthy allies and aggressively pursuing immigrants, exemplified by Epstein-linked revelations and the mistreatment of Kilmar Ábrego García, which has provoked legal challenges and public backlash.

Did Zohran Kill Dimes Square?

Political Currents by Ross Barkan • 36 implied HN points • 26 Nov 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political trends Elections Cultural Commentary
  1. Dimes Square was a cultural scene in New York that reacted against mainstream liberal politics. It attracted artists and writers who wanted to express different ideas.
  2. The scene began during the pandemic and was fueled by a mix of nightlife, alternative art, and a backlash against the woke movement.
  3. Zohran Mamdani's election as mayor marked a turning point, indicating a shift away from the Dimes Square vibe and its right-leaning tendencies.

Many Ukrainians Believed in Trump. Now They Feel Betrayed.

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 301 implied HN points • 24 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations War & Conflict Political Opinion U.S. foreign policy Cultural impact
  1. Many Ukrainians once admired Trump and felt hopeful about American support. Now, they feel let down and have even removed American flags from their uniforms.
  2. Odesa's historic Bristol Hotel was badly damaged in a recent Russian missile strike, showing the impact of the war on civilian life and culture.
  3. This destruction reflects a larger war not just on Ukraine but on its identity and heritage as well.

How did the polls do in 2024? It’s complicated.

Silver Bulletin • 312 implied HN points • 17 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Polling Elections Public Opinion Data Analysis Political Bias
  1. Polls in 2024 had a lower average error than in previous years, which shows improvement in their accuracy. However, most polls underestimated Republican candidates, particularly Trump.
  2. There was a consistent bias in polls, leaning towards Democrats over the past three elections. This trend is concerning as it suggests a systematic issue with polling methods.
  3. Polling accuracy in calling election winners was lower in 2024 compared to past years. Close races should be seen as uncertain, and small leads in polls don't mean much.

Yes, Trump Is a Demagogue. But So Were Many of His Forebears.

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 352 implied HN points • 19 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Rhetoric Presidential History
  1. Demagoguery is when leaders use people's emotions to gain power, and it can be both good and bad depending on how it's used.
  2. The American founders were worried about demagoguery because they thought it could harm the government and public trust.
  3. Many people find it hard to talk about demagoguery because they often see it as just a bad thing, but it's actually a more complex issue in politics.

It's time for the White House to put up or shut up

Silver Bulletin • 1000 implied HN points • 19 Feb 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Election Presidency Media Interviews
  1. Biden's re-election prospects are diminishing due to poor approval ratings, trailing in polls, and concerns about his age.
  2. The White House may be strategically limiting Biden's public appearances to avoid negative outcomes and protect his image.
  3. Critics suggest Biden should engage in more challenging interviews to prove his mental sharpness and suitability for a second term.

Congress Holds Hearing to Rip Out Censorship Orgs, Stem And Root

The DisInformation Chronicle • 305 implied HN points • 12 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Censorship Congress Fact check Political Movements
  1. Congress is looking into groups that censor information to understand their impact better. They want to remove organizations that they think are unfairly controlling what people can see and say.
  2. The investigation revealed that the Center for Countering Digital Hate, despite claims, doesn't only target one political side. It actually targets anyone who goes against mainstream beliefs from a center-left perspective.
  3. Censorship affects both conservative and liberal voices, indicating it's not just about political affiliation. People on both sides can be silenced if they don't follow certain cultural and political norms.

Gratitude to Ukraine (2024)

Thinking about... • 390 implied HN points • 16 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations Democracy Security Civil Rights Conflict resolution
  1. We owe a lot to Ukraine for their fight against Russian aggression. Their resistance has made the world a safer place and reduced the chances of major conflicts.
  2. Ukrainians remind us that freedom isn't just given to us; it's something we must work for and defend. Their struggle teaches us the real meaning of freedom and democracy.
  3. Ukrainians show incredible courage and perseverance in the face of war. Their strength and generosity, even during tough times, inspire us to appreciate our connections and responsibilities to each other.

HWFO Reading List, December 2024

Handwaving Freakoutery • 418 implied HN points • 03 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Analysis Election insights Public Health
  1. The idea of who is 'qualified' for jobs can differ greatly among people. Some argue that a person's personal motivations can make them more suited for certain roles, even if they lack traditional qualifications.
  2. Political appointments may often reflect a person's desire to address issues they personally experienced or care about, rather than following conventional career paths or qualifications.
  3. It's important to consider how personal experiences and motivations can shape the effectiveness of individuals in political positions, as they may drive them to achieve specific goals more passionately.

MAPPING THE GROWTH OF GOVERNMENT

OpenTheBooks Substack • 303 implied HN points • 20 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Federal Agencies Public Policy
  1. Government spending has been growing much faster than the number of employees and inflation. This shows that more money is being spent without a proportional increase in personnel.
  2. Many federal agencies are outdated or no longer exist, making it hard for the public to track government activities and spending. There's a push to create a better record of how taxpayer money is being used.
  3. Specific agencies, like the National Institutes of Health and the Department of Education, have seen huge increases in spending while sometimes cutting staff or having poor performance in their services.

Welcome to Big Brother's Internet

Random Minds by Katherine Brodsky • 121 implied HN points • 01 Aug 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Legislation Privacy Censorship Social media Child protection
  1. The Online Safety Act requires people to share personal information like IDs to access websites, which many feel invades their privacy.
  2. This law could block access to important information for both kids and adults, as companies might overly censor content to avoid fines.
  3. Similar laws are spreading globally, sparking concerns that they will lead to more censorship and a less informed public.

$10k defense grants + divorce reality tv + where immigration reform goes to die

ChinaTalk • 400 implied HN points • 13 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Defense Policy Reality TV Cultural Commentary Foreign Relations
  1. A new group is offering $5,000 to $10,000 grants to people who can share bold ideas about defense strategies and military innovation. They want fresh thinking and to challenge old ways of doing things.
  2. There's a popular Chinese reality show where married couples, on the verge of divorce, go on a road trip together. It's creating a lot of buzz as viewers watch their emotional journey unfold.
  3. Recent changes in U.S. immigration policy aim to help international students who were required to return to their home countries after studying. It took a long time to fix this issue, highlighting problems in the system.

How the Indigo Blob runs a bluff

Silver Bulletin • 397 implied HN points • 20 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Media Government Public Policy Political Analysis
  1. Biden's age-related decline is often hidden by the White House. Many around Washington know about it, but it's not openly discussed.
  2. Media coverage has been inconsistent about Biden's age. While some outlets pointed it out, others downplayed or ignored the issue.
  3. Claims of a conspiracy regarding Biden's ability seem to have some truth. There was effort to manage how his decline was presented to the public.

Noah Smith on Trump 2.0 and Asia + Future of the New Tech Right

ChinaTalk • 340 implied HN points • 21 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy Elections International relations Defense Strategy Political Analysis
  1. The tech right is becoming a powerful group within the Trump administration, focused on deregulation to improve the business environment in America.
  2. Nuclear weapons could greatly stabilize regions like East Asia, and countries like Japan and South Korea should consider developing their own for better security.
  3. Taiwan should leverage its tech industry to become a key supplier of defense products, like drones and batteries, to enhance its economic stability and defense against China.

Elevance's Q2 profits make Wall Street investors (and company executives) happy and wealthy

HEALTH CARE un-covered • 359 implied HN points • 20 Jul 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Healthcare Economics Corporate Governance Social Issues Policy Analysis
  1. Elevance's profits for the second quarter were better than expected, making Wall Street investors very happy. The company is on track to earn even more this year than previously thought.
  2. The company spent less on patient care compared to previous years, which boosted their profits. However, this came at the expense of providing necessary care for low-income and vulnerable populations.
  3. Elevance is growing mainly through its Medicare and Medicaid programs, while its private insurance enrollment is declining. The growth in revenue comes from premium increases and government subsidies.

the end of weaponized empathy

bad cattitude • 315 implied HN points • 05 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Social Issues Cultural critique Political Dynamics Public Sentiment
  1. Some people manipulate others by pretending to be fragile or hurt. This can make it hard for others to say no, even when they should.
  2. Over time, people start to notice when they are being used, which can lead to a breakdown in these manipulative tactics. The strategy stops working as people become less sympathetic.
  3. It's okay to not fix everyone's problems or feel guilty for their struggles. Recognizing this helps protect your own well-being.

Voices for Children - a rally at NZ's Parliament grounds on 31st Oct.

A B’Old Woman • 239 implied HN points • 30 Oct 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Activism Policy Gender Issues Children's rights
  1. There is a rally happening at New Zealand's Parliament on October 31st, focused on children's issues.
  2. Organized by a Māori women's group, this event will feature strong voices speaking on current gender topics affecting kids.
  3. Activities and policies regarding youth, like a secret program in Christchurch, are being highlighted as concerns during the rally.

The Ben Shapiro "Honesty" Hustle

Slack Tide by Matt Labash • 203 implied HN points • 15 May 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary Election Analysis Media Critique Political Ethics Trump administration
  1. Donald Trump is often seen as a conman who focuses on personal gain rather than the needs of his supporters. Many people find it ironic that he seeks luxury, like a $400 million private jet, while his followers struggle financially.
  2. Ben Shapiro, a prominent right-wing commentator, has sometimes pointed out Trump’s wrongdoings. However, he continues to support Trump despite these criticisms, which raises questions about his integrity.
  3. The Republican Party has shifted under Trump's influence, seemingly moving away from traditional values to support his more questionable actions, leading to a perception of corruption within the party.

Top Links 560 It's happening! Partisan economic sentiments are flipping. Transfer nation & Trump's golf course in Vietnam.

Chartbook • 443 implied HN points • 14 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Opinions Party Dynamics Government Policies
  1. People's feelings about the economy are changing along party lines. It's becoming noticeable that opinions are shifting.
  2. The term 'Transfer nation' is being discussed, which suggests a focus on how wealth and resources move between different groups.
  3. Trump's golf course in Vietnam is a point of interest, highlighting the combination of politics and business on a global scale.