The hottest U.S. Politics Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
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Top U.S. Politics Topics

160 million Americans are eligible to be president. How did we end up with these two dudes again?

Silver Bulletin • 358 implied HN points • 06 Nov 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Candidates Polling Demographics
  1. 160 million Americans are eligible to be president, yet we have the same candidates running again.
  2. Trump and Biden are not very popular, with polls showing significant differences when matched against unnamed candidates.
  3. Younger voters seem less interested in Biden, especially due to concerns about his age.

Reader mailbag: Bias in journalism, criminal justice in pop culture, and how my own politics have changed

The Watch • 578 implied HN points • 14 Feb 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Media bias Criminal Justice Political Beliefs Police Reform Civil Rights
  1. Bias in journalism can skew public perceptions, especially in crime shows like _The Forensic Files_ and _Cops_.
  2. Shows like _The Wire_ and _Homicide_ offer a more accurate portrayal of problems in law enforcement.
  3. Maintaining mental well-being is crucial when working in criminal defense, to avoid burnout in the field.

Claim Chowder: She Did Good

Brad DeLong's Grasping Reality • 130 implied HN points • 09 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Political strategy Leadership Public Opinion Government Accountability
  1. Incumbent parties in 2024 faced tough challenges, and Kamala Harris struggled to meet expectations as part of that scenario.
  2. Public perception of Kamala Harris has not been very positive, affecting her and the Biden administration's approval ratings.
  3. Many Democrats are less enthusiastic about Harris as a candidate for the future, raising questions about her role in upcoming elections.

There Are No Drug Cartels!

C.O.P. Central Organizing Principle. • 30 implied HN points • 09 Aug 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government History Corruption Drug policy Foreign Relations Propaganda
  1. Some believe that drug cartels don't really exist; instead, they think the CIA controls drug trafficking through various middlemen. This suggests a hidden government involvement in the drug trade.
  2. There are claims that famous figures and events related to drug trade are misrepresented in Hollywood movies. This makes people question the truth behind what they see in film and television.
  3. The opioid crisis and rising deaths due to drugs like Fentanyl are linked to government actions and decisions. These claims highlight concerns about accountability in the health and drug policies.

Democrats' Black Voter Problem

KERFUFFLE • 119 implied HN points • 29 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Voter Demographics Election Trends Party Politics Identity politics
  1. Many black voters are feeling disappointed with the Democratic Party. They feel the party hasn’t kept its promises and hasn't improved their lives.
  2. Issues like immigration are turning some black voters away from Democrats. They believe immigrants are taking jobs and resources, leading to frustration.
  3. Younger black voters don't feel the same loyalty to Democrats as before. They want real change and feel tired of being told who to support by party leaders.
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"Nothing Will Fundamentally Change."

OK Doomer • 96 implied HN points • 30 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Public Health Policy Misinformation Debates
  1. RFK Jr. is being questioned about his ability to limit research on diseases and access to vaccines. His responses have been evasive and controversial.
  2. Democrats are very concerned about the impact of his misinformation on vaccination rates, especially among adolescents, which they say has led to tragic outcomes.
  3. There are doubts about RFK Jr.'s chances of confirmation, but the long-term effects of his potential power could still be serious for public health.

FBI Is Purging Christians, Conservatives, And Covid Skeptics, New Whistleblowers Allege

Public • 350 implied HN points • 15 Nov 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Religion Politics COVID Whistleblowers Security
  1. FBI is accused of purging Christians, Conservatives, and Covid skeptics based on whistleblower allegations
  2. Whistleblowers claim FBI has retaliated against some employees and improperly used security clearance investigations
  3. Allegations suggest FBI may be targeting specific groups while allowing misconduct by others

Naming the Perp: Very Few People Cause All of the World's Worst Problems

God's Spies by Thomas Neuburger • 125 implied HN points • 27 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Wealth Inequality Political Economy Power Dynamics Corporate Influence
  1. A small number of wealthy individuals control a huge amount of money. Just 800 Americans hold around $6 trillion, showing how wealth is very concentrated.
  2. Investment firms manage a lot of this wealth, with 117 people deciding where to invest over $50 trillion. This means a few people hold significant power over global investments.
  3. Most of the world's problems are caused by a tiny group of individuals. Recognizing them makes it easier to hold them accountable and work towards change.

Commentator

Castalia • 119 implied HN points • 07 May 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Gun Control Public Health International relations Political Commentary
  1. The recent school shooting in Serbia shows that gun violence is a global issue, not just an American one. Even after such tragedies, countries often take steps to control gun ownership more effectively.
  2. The death of Jordan Neely on the NYC subway highlights the complexities surrounding public safety and mental health. Many people want to help but are unsure of how to intervene safely in stressful situations.
  3. AI technology is advancing quickly, raising serious concerns among its creators about potential risks. Experts feel it's important for governments to step in and regulate the technology before it negatively impacts society.

sunday meanpool

bad cattitude • 127 implied HN points • 10 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Policy Elections Governance Public Opinion Political Commentary
  1. It's easier to see certain things when you finally understand them. Sometimes, the truth is clear but hard to face.
  2. People often struggle to accept obvious truths about themselves. Admitting what's true can be a challenge for many.
  3. Looking at things from a different perspective can help clarify confusing situations. A fresh viewpoint can make what seems complicated feel simple.

Reader Poll

OK Doomer • 42 implied HN points • 02 Jul 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Polls Elections Government Public Opinion Political trends
  1. Reader polls are a way to engage the audience and gather their opinions. They help creators understand what their subscribers think and want.
  2. Paid subscriptions offer exclusive content to readers. This can create a sense of community and provide added value for subscribers.
  3. Sharing content helps increase visibility and reach a wider audience. It's a simple way to support creators and spread their messages.

Marriage is down because it’s bad for women

Sex and the State • 50 implied HN points • 29 May 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Gender Policy Socioeconomics Feminism Social Issues
  1. Marriage rates are dropping because many women feel it's a bad deal for them. They are reassessing what marriage offers compared to being single.
  2. Women in the lower half of income and education often find their potential partners don't offer enough benefits in a marriage. These women are realizing they are better off remaining single.
  3. In general, marriage tends to benefit men more than women. This imbalance is particularly pronounced in marriages involving lower-income men, making marriage less appealing for women.

Saving the National AI Research Resource & my AI policy outlook

Democratizing Automation • 126 implied HN points • 13 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics AI Policy Legislation Technology Regulation Public funding
  1. The National AI Research Resource (NAIRR) is crucial for connecting the government, big tech, and academic institutions to enhance AI research in the U.S. It aims to provide resources to support AI development for everyone, not just major companies.
  2. NAIRR is facing funding uncertainties, as it relies on congressional approval to continue beyond 2024. If it loses funding, it could hinder academic progress in AI, making it harder for smaller players to compete.
  3. There is a growing concern about state legislation regulating AI. As federal policies shift, states might create laws that can affect how open-source models are used, which poses risks for academic institutions.

On the bizarre case of Stephan Kramer – the spy chief & anti-AfD crusader who leaked secrets to journalists, hung out with a Russian biker gang & got caught plagiarising from an Antifa newsletter

eugyppius: a plague chronicle • 115 implied HN points • 15 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political strategy Election Dynamics Media influence Intelligence Operations Political Campaigns
  1. A spy chief named Stephan Kramer is involved in some strange and questionable activities, including leaking secrets to journalists. He's also linked to a Russian biker gang, which raises eyebrows.
  2. There's a significant media campaign in Germany aimed at reducing the political influence of the Alternative für Deutschland (AfD) party, as they're gaining popularity.
  3. Kramer's actions, like trying to investigate the AfD without any justification, show the lengths to which some officials might go to control political narratives.

Progressive “Groups”, AI, and Diminishing Returns

From the New World • 124 implied HN points • 21 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Public Opinion Legislation
  1. Progressive groups can impact political outcomes by pushing unpopular ideas, but they keep existing because they operate without accountability.
  2. Recent public opinion has shifted on AI, revealing that previous beliefs about its unlimited potential might not be true. This could change how we approach AI research in the future.
  3. Past political movements often go unpunished when public opinion changes, which is a mistake. We should remember the lessons from these issues to prevent them from happening again.

Birthright Citizenship

The Reactionary • 97 implied HN points • 24 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Citizenship Law Executive orders Supreme Court Immigration
  1. Trump's Executive Order aims to restrict birthright citizenship for children born to undocumented immigrants or temporary visitors in the U.S.
  2. A U.S. district court has temporarily blocked this order, emphasizing the ongoing debate about the Fourteenth Amendment's citizenship clause.
  3. The Supreme Court will likely face challenges in deciding whether to uphold or change the existing rule on birthright citizenship, given its historical acceptance.

✅ A call for fresh, bold thinking to reimagine Britain’s future and its role in the world

Wadds Inc. newsletter • 19 implied HN points • 22 Apr 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Public Relations Corporate Communications Policy Making Future studies International relations
  1. A new project called Renewal aims to gather fresh ideas on Britain's future through contributions from public relations experts. They want to address important topics affecting society and the economy.
  2. David Miliband outlines four crucial questions for Britain's future: where to start, what values to uphold, where to build relationships, and what resources are available.
  3. The public relations community is encouraged to share essays that provoke thought and inspire change, with a submission deadline set for mid-July.

How Congress Can Investigate the Pandemic Origins Cover-up

The DisInformation Chronicle • 535 implied HN points • 14 Mar 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Investigation Corruption Cover-up Documents Funding
  1. Researchers and the National Institutes of Health gamed the science - follow the documents, follow the money.
  2. Congress should demand that the NIH release documents hidden from reporters and investigate criminal misuse by virologists at USAID.
  3. Congress also needs to demand documents and financial records from university virologists funded by the NIH to get to the bottom of the pandemic's origins.

Vlad the Bad

Diane Francis • 679 implied HN points • 22 Mar 21
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy Leadership Geopolitics Corruption International relations
  1. Vladimir Putin is seen as incredibly powerful and wealthy, controlling vast resources in Russia while keeping the country impoverished. Most Russians live on very little despite the country's riches.
  2. Putin's regime is characterized by harsh control, eliminating political opponents and using propaganda. His foreign policy aims to weaken Western institutions and expand Russian influence.
  3. The relationship between the U.S. and Putin is tense, especially after recent comments from President Biden calling Putin a 'killer.' There are expectations for serious consequences, but Putin is unlikely to back down easily.

Why can't the left understand restrictions on immigration?

Unreported Truths • 99 implied HN points • 22 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Immigration Policy Border control Political Commentary
  1. Some people believe having control over immigration is necessary. They argue that the reasons many migrants seek entry don't align with traditional asylum purposes.
  2. Recent immigration policies have led to criticisms from various groups, particularly concerning the treatment of migrants at the borders.
  3. The understanding of who should be allowed in and under what conditions is a big debate, leading to significant political consequences.

Thanksgiving Dinner Banter: Five facts on school shootings

School Shooting Data Analysis and Reports • 59 implied HN points • 23 Nov 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics School Shootings Gun Violence Safety concerns Policy Solutions
  1. School shootings are a top safety concern for children, teens, college students, and parents, uniting them with a shared worry.
  2. The number of school shootings is increasing each year, with 2023 projected to be significantly higher than previous years.
  3. Gun-free school zones show a significant decrease in firearm crimes, indicating their effectiveness in promoting safety within school premises.

What does Trump's win mean for the world?

Comment is Freed • 131 implied HN points • 07 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Election Analysis International relations Government Structure Foreign Policy Trade policy
  1. Trump's presidency might lean towards nationalism and isolationism. This could challenge established alliances like NATO and impact international cooperation.
  2. Expect unpredictability in Trump's upcoming administration, with potential government restructuring and a focus on unilateral decisions. This may lead to issues in the usual functioning of government.
  3. Trump's approach to foreign conflicts, especially in Ukraine and the Middle East, could shift, leading to concerns among allies about U.S. support and stability in those regions.

Klu Klux Kountry

Diane Francis • 519 implied HN points • 09 Sep 21
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political History Fascism Racism Republican party
  1. America has a complicated history that includes elements of racism and authoritarianism. This has been part of the country's identity since its founding and continues to influence politics today.
  2. The Republican Party has shifted away from its original values and now carries ideas similar to those of the Klu Klux Klan. This includes promoting a culture of discrimination and a longing for a past that favored their interests.
  3. There is a growing concern that democracy in America is under threat from factions that are using distorted political practices. Many believe that if these groups gain more power, they could dismantle important rights and freedoms.

Higher Ed is a Woke Seminary

Bet On It • 110 implied HN points • 19 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Higher education Political Bias Social Issues Podcasting
  1. Many people believe that American universities have a strong left-leaning bias in their teachings. This perspective has been noticeable for a long time.
  2. There’s a concern that so-called 'woke' ideas and beliefs from colleges may influence society and culture more than previously thought.
  3. The discussion around education and its political leanings is ongoing and important to understand the impact on students and the wider community.

tone deaf talking points

bad cattitude • 254 implied HN points • 18 Mar 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Current Events Opinion
  1. Discussing past events and individuals with honesty is important, regardless of personal viewpoints.
  2. The pandemic response resulted in significant personal freedom restrictions and economic consequences.
  3. Taking a different approach to the pandemic may have led to a better outcome, highlighting the importance of questioning decisions made by authorities.

Venture incentives, tariffs, and who owns Trump?

Alex's Personal Blog • 131 implied HN points • 07 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Political strategy Policy Analysis Market Impact Political Influence
  1. Venture capital has changed a lot. Now, big funds often focus on collecting management fees instead of helping companies grow well. This could hurt the overall success of the startups.
  2. There's a mix of excitement and doubt about what Trump will do in office. Many in the business world hope he won't act on some of his strict campaign promises, like high tariffs.
  3. The influence of the business community might lead Trump to prioritize economic relationships over extreme policies. People are curious about which side he'll listen to more once he's in charge.

But wait, there's more: Julie K. Brown's growing credibility problem

Michael Tracey • 33 implied HN points • 05 Aug 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Journalism Legal issues Public Perception Investigative Reporting
  1. Julie K. Brown has faced credibility issues due to her reliance on Virginia Giuffre's questionable accounts. This raises doubts about the validity of the claims surrounding Jeffrey Epstein.
  2. Giuffre's accusations have been a key part of many narratives about Epstein, suggesting a wider cover-up involving powerful people.
  3. There are criticisms about how some theories regarding Epstein connect to hidden agendas without addressing the inconsistencies in the evidence presented by sources like Giuffre.

It’s Day 3 of a Disastrous Presidency and the Numbers Are In: No One Likes What Donald Trump Is Doing—Including MAGAs

Proof • 94 implied HN points • 23 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Policies Political Opinion Leadership Public Sentiment
  1. Many people are unhappy with the current actions being taken by the president, including his own supporters. This suggests a disconnect between leadership choices and public opinion.
  2. There's a question regarding who the president is really trying to help with his policies. It raises doubts about his priorities and motivations.
  3. The early days of this presidency are already marked by serious criticism, indicating potential challenges ahead for the administration.

Trump Wins: What a Comeback

The Reactionary • 130 implied HN points • 06 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Candidates Political strategy Public Opinion Legislation
  1. Trump managed to unite a diverse group of voters, including independents and working-class individuals, which helped him win key states. This shows that many people are looking for change and support candidates who speak to their needs.
  2. Kamala Harris faced challenges as a candidate, which made it hard for her to connect with voters. Her lack of charisma and unchanging policies compared to Biden may have hurt her chances of winning.
  3. There are expectations for Trump's second term to be smoother without the chaos from his first term. This could lead to new legislation to improve the economy and other significant changes.

The Media's Bizarre Treatment of the Mangione Case

God's Spies by Thomas Neuburger • 115 implied HN points • 13 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Media bias Class Struggle Public Perception Political Accountability
  1. The media's reaction to the Mangione case seems strange because they don't want to show his face or publish his manifesto. They say it's to avoid inspiring others, but many people have seen these documents anyway.
  2. There's a concern that big media is protecting its sources, like police and security services, which influences their reporting decisions. They are acting almost like a part of the national security system.
  3. The situation highlights a deeper issue of class struggle. Many people feel angry about social inequality, and some even support extreme actions against those in power, showing a growing frustration with the wealthy elite.

sunday memepool: the red wave red pill

bad cattitude • 121 implied HN points • 17 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Political trends Current Events Political Commentary Social Issues
  1. Change is a constant part of life, and it’s important to embrace it. Being open to new ideas can lead to growth and understanding.
  2. The last five years were marked by intense and sometimes overwhelming ideas. It shows how discussions and opinions can evolve and become more complex over time.
  3. Having a critical perspective on trends and ideas is valuable. It helps us navigate through confusion and make informed choices.

The origin of woke: a George Mason view

Gray Mirror • 108 implied HN points • 28 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Wokeness Political theory Cultural Studies Social Psychology
  1. Wokeness is seen as a form of signaling virtue. People often support wokeness to show they are nice and moral, which helps them gain status in social groups.
  2. The origin of wokeness is linked to the desire to treat everyone equally, promoting good behavior, especially in diverse societies. It's about showing you care about people from different backgrounds.
  3. Discussing group differences and how they impact social status is important. Wokeness evolves to maintain its status, often distancing itself from less socially aware groups.

He Could Not Even Wait Until The Inauguration

Phillips’s Newsletter • 99 implied HN points • 17 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Foreign Policy Political Analysis Public Opinion Leadership
  1. Trump's tough talk on China is seen as a facade, as he has shown favoritism towards President Xi and criticized Taiwan.
  2. He has publicly doubted Taiwan's value as an ally, arguing that they should pay for U.S. defense.
  3. Many people were misled by Trump's claims, as they did not want to believe his real stance towards China and Taiwan.

The 2024 Presidential Election Hinges on Cities

The New Urban Order • 59 implied HN points • 20 Nov 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Election Cities Voter Turnout Political Campaigns
  1. Cities consistently have lower voter turnout compared to suburban and rural areas.
  2. Urban voters tend to be overwhelmingly Democratic, which leads to neglect from both Republican and Democrat campaigns.
  3. The 2024 Presidential Election is expected to focus on cities as an unexpected battleground, especially concerning the turnout of Black and Hispanic voters.