The hottest U.S. Politics Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
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Top U.S. Politics Topics

Who agrees with Liz Cheney?

Michael Tracey • 120 implied HN points • 31 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Analysis Election Dynamics Campaign strategies Political History
  1. Kamala Harris and Liz Cheney are aligning their political views, suggesting they share common ground on some issues, particularly regarding foreign policy. This connection raises questions about their past political differences.
  2. Liz Cheney's history shows that she was supportive of many Trump policies while in Congress, especially regarding foreign affairs. This past support contrasts sharply with her current criticism of him.
  3. Despite their disagreements, Trump and Cheney may both favor keeping a strong military presence in Afghanistan, indicating a surprising overlap in their views during the 2024 campaign.

Get Out the Vote for Ukraine

Thinking about... • 121 implied HN points • 15 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Democracy Foreign Policy Activism International relations
  1. Voting in the upcoming US election is important for supporting democracy in Ukraine. The choices made in America can affect Ukraine's future and its struggle against the Russian invasion.
  2. Ukrainian resistance is seen as a key sign of democratic strength in the current decade. Their fight has allowed others, including Americans, to recover from crises and participate in democratic processes.
  3. The livestream event with Liev Schreiber aims to raise awareness about Ukraine and encourage people to vote. Schreiber’s involvement brings more attention to the Ukrainian situation and the need for democratic participation.

"No Distinction on Account of Race and Color"

Journal of Free Black Thought • 44 implied HN points • 26 May 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Civil Rights Race relations Historical Figures Social justice Equality
  1. Frederick Douglass believed that our shared humanity is more important than our race. He thought people should focus on being good people, not just their skin color.
  2. He argued that race pride can create division and that everyone should be treated equally, regardless of their background. Douglass felt that the Constitution already supports equality.
  3. Douglass emphasized that one's character and actions matter more than their race. He praised those who stand up for justice and equality, no matter their skin color.

Trump’s Day 1 Executive Orders Are a Live Grenade Thrown at His Own Voters

Proof • 84 implied HN points • 22 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Policies Political Analysis Government actions Public Opinion
  1. A new president has surprised many by making decisions that seem to harm their own supporters. It feels like the president is ignoring what his voters want in favor of satisfying those who supported his campaign financially.
  2. The actions taken by the president on the first day in office have been viewed as extreme and harmful by some. This has raised concerns about loyalty to the people who voted for him.
  3. Many believe these early decisions could lead to significant backlash from his voter base. It's seen as a risky move that could hurt his relationship with those who originally backed him.
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The Problem With Neoliberalism

Integrity Talk • 33 implied HN points • 13 Jul 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Economy Policy Public funding Neoliberalism
  1. Neoliberalism focuses on free markets with less government control, believing this helps things like trade and competition. However, it can make services like healthcare and education more expensive for many people.
  2. There's a debate about whether the government should step in to support innovation. Some think government help is crucial for success in tech, while neoliberals argue the market can self-regulate better.
  3. Neoliberalism isn't just about cutting government spending; it's also about finding a balance. Some government support can be important for big projects, while markets are good at improving technologies quickly.

WEEKLY BRIEFLY NOTED for 2024-11-02 Sa

Brad DeLong's Grasping Reality • 115 implied HN points • 02 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Policy Economics Public Opinion Political History
  1. Global warming is a serious threat, especially for poorer countries like those in sub-Saharan Africa that lack resources to adapt.
  2. Decarbonization efforts in the Global North have been noticeable over the past generation, helping to address climate change.
  3. Passive investing might seem easy, but it actually leads to big market shifts as people try to track indexes, which can complicate real price discovery.

Curator

Castalia • 119 implied HN points • 30 Mar 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Race relations Political Ideologies Cultural critique Media influence Historical Analysis
  1. Wokeness is seen by some as a call for a fresh start, especially within the Black community, moving away from past injustices towards a new political entity.
  2. Ernst Junger's writings highlight a fascination with death and a disdain for boring, comfortable living, linking militarism to a critique of modern society.
  3. A.O. Scott's retirement from film criticism signals changes in how movies are perceived, and the role of reviews in shaping art is being questioned as they affect creators deeply.

On the US/EU tariff deal, aka another YUGE win for Donald Trump

Unreported Truths • 31 implied HN points • 28 Jul 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Trade policy Tariffs Foreign Relations Economic Policy Trump Era
  1. The US/EU tariff deal is seen as a major victory for Donald Trump. It gives the US more favorable terms while requiring the EU to lower their tariffs.
  2. European leaders have noticeably lost leverage in negotiations, leading to what some call an embarrassing outcome for the EU.
  3. The tariffs are low enough that they may help American manufacturing without causing much inflation, suggesting a potential positive impact on the US economy.

The Tinkerer

Unpopular Front • 98 implied HN points • 10 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political violence Civil Unrest Social Issues Ideology Historical context
  1. Luigi Mangione, the suspected killer, seemed like a normal guy from a good family, with a stable social life and a well-educated background. However, a serious back injury and frustration with the medical system might have pushed him towards violence.
  2. His interests were surprisingly typical for a young tech worker, like reading famous dystopian novels and discussing future tech, which doesn't usually lead to extreme actions. This shows how regular people can sometimes make shocking choices when feeling lost.
  3. The situation reflects a larger issue in society, where many young, successful individuals feel disconnected and frustrated with the current system. This emotional struggle can drive some to act out in desperate and dangerous ways.

August 14, 2025

Letters from an American • 26 implied HN points • 15 Aug 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Redistricting Governance Political strategy Democratic Party
  1. California is planning a special election to counteract Republican redistricting efforts in Texas. This is a way for California to protect its interests and push back against what they see as unfair tactics.
  2. Governor Newsom emphasized that democracy is at risk and urged people to pay attention to Trump's actions. He believes that it's important for everyone to stand up and fight for democratic values.
  3. Newsom's approach shows a shift in the Democratic strategy from being defensive to being more aggressive. He wants to unify people in California around the idea that their diversity is a strength, and that they should not be intimidated.

What if the USA is about to Become an Ally of Putin?

Phillips’s Newsletter • 113 implied HN points • 14 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Government Foreign Policy Political parties Legislation
  1. Donald Trump has appointed Rep. Tulsi Gabbard as the next Director of National Intelligence. This move raises questions about how the US might shift its foreign policy.
  2. Tulsi Gabbard has a mixed history with war; she opposes some conflicts while supporting others. Her stance seems to protect certain dictators like Bashar Assad, which has drawn criticism.
  3. Gabbard's alignment with controversial figures could suggest a potential change in US alliances, making the idea of becoming an ally of Putin more plausible. Overall, this situation could reshape global politics significantly.

Untreated

KERFUFFLE • 97 implied HN points • 13 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Mental health Public Policy Homelessness Legal issues Social Welfare
  1. The current state of mental health care in the U.S. struggles to address serious mental illnesses. Many people with severe issues end up homeless due to insufficient treatment options.
  2. Getting someone into a supportive psychiatric facility requires proving that they're a risk to themselves or others, which is a tough standard. This makes it hard to get help for many who desperately need it.
  3. After hospital care, many individuals are released back to the streets without proper long-term plans. This shows a systemic failure to manage mental health properly and protect the community.

Unreported Truths has spoken

Unreported Truths • 35 implied HN points • 11 Jul 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Healthcare Crisis Society Trust Ethics
  1. The audience prefers writing over podcasting, with a clear majority saying they want more written content.
  2. There's a significant concern about the state of healthcare in America, with many feeling it's failing in ethical promises and effectiveness.
  3. The current healthcare crisis seems to contribute to growing distrust and cynicism in society, affecting people's views on other institutions as well.

The New Red Menace

Disaffected Newsletter • 239 implied HN points • 05 Sep 22
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Climate Government Policy Social Issues Political Commentary Public Opinion
  1. The term 'New Red Menace' refers to a modern fear or threat that is seen as dangerous. People are often looking for new sources of concern in society.
  2. This idea can sometimes lead to heightened emotions and reactions; it encourages people to react strongly to what's perceived as a threat.
  3. Understanding these fears can help in discussing and addressing social issues calmly instead of provoking panic or division.

To America, Biden Has No Rivals. To Iran? It's RFK Jr.

Séamus Malekafzali • 138 implied HN points • 26 Apr 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Election Presidential campaign Political landscape Foreign Relations
  1. Biden is perceived as having no rivals in America for the Democratic primary in 2024.
  2. In Iran, Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s presidential campaign is seen as a significant rivalry.
  3. Despite low approval ratings, Biden's strong party support diminishes chances for other Democratic candidates to challenge him.

Jesse Singal and Alex Berenson are post-prime, one-trick Substack ponies baring their biases and unreliability

Beck of the Pack • 39 implied HN points • 08 Jan 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Media International relations Government Activism Journalism
  1. Jesse Singal and Alex Berenson are criticized for their biases and unreliability on Substack.
  2. The authors are accused of being misinformed or biased on topics like Israel and Palestine.
  3. There are concerns about the quality of journalism and integrity when it comes to reporting by Singal and Berenson.

Sen. Blackburn (R-TN) used the "socialism" trope. It proves she doesn't know her history about Tennessee.

HEALTH CARE un-covered • 239 implied HN points • 31 Aug 22
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political History Government programs Political criticism Public Policy
  1. Senator Blackburn claims Tennesseans don't want socialism, but many benefit from government programs like the Tennessee Valley Authority. This program has provided jobs and improved living standards in Tennessee.
  2. The Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA), created during the New Deal, was seen as 'socialism' but has had a positive impact on the community for many years. It helped people get jobs and electricity.
  3. The history of programs like the TVA shows that what some label as 'socialism' can actually lead to progress and improve lives. It's important to consider the benefits of such programs.

Trump’s Threat to Democracy

David Friedman’s Substack • 233 implied HN points • 09 Mar 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Election Trump administration Legal system
  1. Some believe Trump winning the 2024 election could lead to the end of free and fair elections in America due to potential election rigging or disenfranchisement of Democrats.
  2. Trump was successful in instilling fear in the political establishment, even though he achieved little in terms of policy during his presidency.
  3. There is concern that Trump, if re-elected, may resort to using legal tactics against his opponents, potentially leading to a situation similar to ruling parties in undemocratic states like Putin's Russia.

The Flim Flam Man Blinked!

C.O.P. Central Organizing Principle. • 36 implied HN points • 24 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political critique Foreign Relations Military Policy Corporate Influence Public Opinion
  1. Trump's military strategies have not worked well, as he seems outmatched by conflicts, especially with Iran. His approaches often feel like bluffs that don't lead to real peace.
  2. Many policies seem to prioritize corporate and military interests rather than the people, leading to feelings of betrayal among citizens. This suggests a disconnect between the government and the people it represents.
  3. There is a strong call for acknowledging and reconciling with First Nations, as some believe American policies interfere with justice for indigenous peoples. A change in leadership and priorities is portrayed as necessary for progress.

An update on Berenson v Biden - and the Trump Administration's missed chance to take on Biden White House censorship

Unreported Truths • 29 implied HN points • 05 Aug 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Censorship Free speech Legal issues Government Action Trump administration
  1. The Trump administration previously criticized Biden's censorship actions on social media but hasn't actively pursued a case against them, leaving the question of accountability open.
  2. A judge ruled that Berenson did not have standing to sue the Biden administration, but acknowledged evidence of censorship without a clear way for Berenson to seek damages.
  3. The Trump administration has a chance to admit to past censorship and settle the case without admitting wrongdoing, yet it seems to be avoiding action on this issue.

I, for one, am opposed to monarchy

Alex's Personal Blog • 98 implied HN points • 19 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Elections Legislation Politics Leadership
  1. Chime, a financial technology company, is planning to go public in 2025. This news has raised hopes for a surge of initial public offerings (IPOs) next year.
  2. There's a growing expectation that a single powerful figure, like Elon Musk, could influence political decisions more than traditional leaders. This shift raises concerns about the concentration of power in politics.
  3. Many tech industry supporters seem to prefer a strong leader who acts quickly without debate, akin to a king. This reflects a desire for streamlined control rather than involving the usual checks and balances in government.

Jared's Billions

Diane Francis • 299 implied HN points • 18 Apr 22
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy Ethics Investment Government Power Middle East
  1. Jared Kushner received a $2 billion investment from Saudi Arabia, raising concerns about potential favoritism and ethical issues, especially given his past role in the Trump administration.
  2. The relationship between Kushner and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman involves complex political maneuvers, including attempts to alter U.S. foreign policy and discussions about nuclear technology in the region.
  3. Critics worry that Kushner's business dealings could undermine U.S. democracy and allow foreign interests to influence American politics, especially with close ties to controversial figures.

August 13, 2025

Letters from an American • 26 implied HN points • 14 Aug 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Social Policy Historical Events Legislation Political Philosophy
  1. The Social Security Act changed how the government supports its citizens by providing benefits like unemployment insurance and old-age pensions. This created a basic safety net for Americans during tough times.
  2. Frances Perkins, who was the first female U.S. Cabinet member, played a key role in establishing the Social Security Act. Her experiences as a social worker shaped her belief that the government should help people in need.
  3. The success of the Social Security Act showed that Americans value community support over individualism. This idea has become an important part of American culture and politics, ensuring the act remains protected today.

HWFO Reading List, February 2024

Handwaving Freakoutery • 237 implied HN points • 21 Feb 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Conspiracy Theories Policy Analysis Media influence Political Commentary
  1. The foundation of SETI uses the Drake Equation to estimate the existence of extraterrestrial life, similar to how an estimate could be made for the likelihood of someone shooting Trump.
  2. James Hankins' anti-diversity statement may signal shifts in ideologies and academic environments.
  3. Studies on topics such as car seat laws affecting fertility rates and brain structures defining self-perception shed light on various intriguing scientific findings.

The election model is a little too popular

Silver Bulletin • 334 implied HN points • 20 Sep 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Election coverage Media influence Decision-making Forecasting Partisanship
  1. The election model became overwhelmingly popular, potentially overshadowing other content.
  2. The author is considering different strategies to manage the model's audience and impact.
  3. There are various options being considered, like putting the model behind a paywall or appealing to different types of audiences.

August 22, 2025

Letters from an American • 24 implied HN points • 23 Aug 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Government Legal Leadership Political strategy
  1. The FBI raided John Bolton's home, showing a strong move from Trump to use government power against his critics. It sends a clear message to anyone speaking out against him.
  2. Trump is rethinking the role of the FBI and military, suggesting that they should focus more on controlling political opponents rather than just fighting crime. This raises concerns about authoritarian tactics.
  3. There is a push from Trump's allies to rewrite history and gather support for him, including intimidating others and potentially influencing voting rights. This shows a dangerous shift in how political power is being used.

Brief: Google received cloud contract supporting U.S. Special Operations Forces

All-Source Intelligence Fusion • 223 implied HN points • 18 Mar 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Military Technology Contracts Cloud Computing
  1. Google received a cloud contract to support U.S. Special Operations Forces as part of a $9 billion program run by the Pentagon, along with Microsoft, Oracle, and Amazon.
  2. The U.S. Special Operations Command (SOCOM) with roughly 60,000 personnel works closely with elite units for direct action missions and core activities like counter-insurgency operations.
  3. The cloud computing contracts are seen as linking the CIA's cloud contract and the Pentagon's JWCC initiative, suggesting a bridge between intelligence and military operations.

Politics vs Policy

Comment is Freed • 101 implied HN points • 07 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Policy Government Public Opinion Elections Political strategy
  1. There is often a gap between expert solutions and what the public actually wants. This can create confusion and paralysis in government decisions.
  2. Policy changes in areas like taxation and climate change can be very unpopular, making it tough for leaders to make bold moves.
  3. Voters generally prefer to avoid controversial debates, which can limit the effectiveness of expert advice on important issues.

The NRC's Mission Statement

Gordian Knot News • 95 implied HN points • 23 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Legislation Nuclear policy Regulation Government Public Health
  1. The NRC needs to update its mission statement to promote more efficient and less restrictive use of nuclear energy while still focusing on public safety.
  2. The ADVANCE Act didn't really change much beyond the mission statement, and it doesn't force the NRC to consider the benefits of nuclear power.
  3. To really fix the issues with nuclear energy regulation, a new system that balances benefits and risks is necessary instead of just changing mission statements.

Real American Decider™

Situation Normal • 111 implied HN points • 03 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Voting Political Opinion Campaigning
  1. Undecided voters in elections can seem confusing, like people who can't choose between chicken or something gross. It's important to make informed choices when voting.
  2. The idea of being a 'Real American Decider' means taking the time to understand politics and make a decision that matters. Being engaged and curious is key.
  3. Even casual conversations about politics can influence voting behavior. Engaging with others about their choices can lead to better decision-making for everyone.

sunday memepool: taking stock

bad cattitude • 108 implied HN points • 10 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Political Analysis Public Opinion Campaigns Government
  1. The recent elections have led to shifts in political power. This shows that people's opinions and needs can change over time.
  2. Celebrating election outcomes is important, but it's also crucial to start thinking about what comes next. The real work often begins after the celebrations are over.
  3. Staying aware of the changes and the reasons behind them can help people engage better in future political discussions and decisions. It's a good chance to reflect and plan ahead.