The hottest U.S. Politics Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
Category
Top U.S. Politics Topics

The War On Drugs Was Never About Safety

Tripsitter • 59 implied HN points • 21 Aug 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Criminal Justice Public Health Social Issues
  1. The War On Drugs has not been about safety, but rather about control and power, with questionable motives behind it.
  2. The War On Drugs has cost an enormous amount of money, ruined lives, and made it harder for people with addiction to seek help.
  3. Decriminalization and legalization of drugs have shown promise in other countries, like Switzerland and Portugal, as alternative approaches to dealing with drug-related issues.

"One Fine Son of a Bitch"

The Radar • 59 implied HN points • 27 Jul 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Leadership Military Conflict Authority
  1. Gen. George Patton had a knack for intuitive leadership, known as 'coup d’oeil,' allowing him to swiftly assess situations and make decisions.
  2. Patton, despite his rough exterior, showed humility and openness to learning from his mistakes, which endeared him to his soldiers and fostered loyalty.
  3. Patton valued competence over personal relationships, surrounding himself with individuals who could perform well, even if they disagreed with him.

Chapter 8: Think And Talk About Opponents As Little As Possible | Building YIMBYs of NoVA

Cornerstone • 59 implied HN points • 16 Jun 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Advocacy Housing Coalition building Public Discourse
  1. Think and talk about opponents as little as possible to avoid validating them and looking threatened.
  2. Focus on staying positive and productive despite attacks or intimidation. Do not take the bait.
  3. Respect opponents by understanding their motivations and where they are coming from, aiming to outmaneuver rather than dehumanize them.

Movements: Europe, 1848 & USA, 1968, 2011

Banana Peel Pirouette • 59 implied HN points • 22 Sep 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Protests Social movements Cultural impact Political Activism
  1. Europe in 1848 and the USA in 1968 and 2011 experienced significant social movements driven by economic crises, political repression, and the desire for political participation and nationalistic aspirations.
  2. The aftermath of these movements saw a shift towards pragmatism and administrative changes in governance, increased focus on economic growth, infrastructure improvement, and a move towards political centrist coalitions.
  3. Occupy Wall Street in 2011 symbolized a global shift in revolutionary tactics with a focus on economic inequality, corporate influence, and sparked conversations on privilege, exclusion, and cultural transformation that have since permeated mainstream politics and societal values.

The Rainy Day Problem

The Radar • 59 implied HN points • 11 Jul 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Military Funding Leadership Investigative Reporting Government
  1. The Air Force's lack of planning has left Airmen and families in uncertainty and chaos due to funding shortfalls.
  2. The 'Rainy Day Problem' highlights how organizations, like the Air Force, must plan to protect their stakeholders from foreseeable issues.
  3. Failure to address the funding shortfall swiftly and improve planning could lead to erosion of trust within the Air Force and impact readiness.
Get a weekly roundup of the best Substack posts, by hacker news affinity:

Sundowning in America: A Series: Part III

Brad DeLong's Grasping Reality • 107 implied HN points • 25 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary Elections Public Opinion Political Rhetoric Government Critique
  1. Donald Trump is seen as promoting dangerous ideas that intimidate his political opponents, which may influence some Republican leaders but not everyone.
  2. Despite hosting a rally at Madison Square Garden, he couldn't fill the venue, signaling a potential decline in support.
  3. There are concerns about Trump's mental state as he often makes confusing statements, leading to doubts about his capability to lead.

The New New Class?

Gideon's Substack • 97 implied HN points • 27 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Populism Political Leadership Meritocracy Cultural influence
  1. There's been a shift in the people who hold real power in society, moving from landowners to those with skills and education, known as the meritocratic class. Now, we might be seeing the rise of a new group focused on gaining attention.
  2. Right-wing populism seems to rise from a reaction against the meritocratic upper class, attracting those who feel alienated by the success of educated elites. This new group connects more with traditional values and has different pathways to success.
  3. The way we compete for attention today has changed how success is defined, especially with social media's influence. The idea of being an 'influencer' could shape a new class, where winning attention plays a crucial role in gaining power and status.

DOJ plows ahead: supporting farmers in Deere anti-trust lawsuit - Week in Repair

Fight to Repair • 59 implied HN points • 17 Feb 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Antitrust Legislation Enforcement Environmental Issues
  1. The US Department of Justice is supporting farmers in an anti-trust lawsuit against Deere, highlighting the importance of right to repair and fighting against repair restrictions imposed by companies.
  2. There is a growing movement among farmers to use older machines and explore open-source tractor software to ensure they can repair their equipment themselves, especially in rural areas where repair options are limited.
  3. Legislation is being introduced in multiple states, including Colorado, to force manufacturers to provide tools and resources necessary for farmers to make their own repairs, emphasizing the need for immediate action to address repair issues in farming equipment.

August 17, 2025

Letters from an American • 23 implied HN points • 18 Aug 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics National Security Foreign Relations Government Power Political Rhetoric Election Strategy
  1. Trump's recent meeting with Putin shifted U.S. foreign policy to align more with Russia, moving away from traditional allies like Ukraine and NATO. This change raises concerns about America's standing in global relations.
  2. The Trump administration is using military forces in American cities under the pretext of managing crime, which many see as a way to exert control and instill fear among people.
  3. There is a growing division and hostility within America, driven by Trump's actions and rhetoric. This situation threatens the democratic values that the country has upheld for a long time.

Chess with Vlad

Diane Francis • 519 implied HN points • 15 Apr 21
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy Diplomacy Military Strategy Geopolitics International relations
  1. Biden's decision to withdraw troops from Afghanistan was seen as smart, but his handling of the situation with Putin and Ukraine was not viewed the same way. Engaging in talks without firm actions may show weakness.
  2. Putin operates by different rules and often violates agreements, making it hard for the West to effectively respond. The trust in diplomacy alone is misplaced when dealing with aggressive actions.
  3. To genuinely challenge Putin, the U.S. needs to adopt a stronger stance. This involves military readiness and severe economic sanctions rather than just discussions or temporary measures.

Zombie misinformation

Conspirador Norteño • 36 implied HN points • 20 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Misinformation Protests Social media Viral Trends Public Safety
  1. Misinformation can spread quickly on social media, especially older bad advice that suddenly becomes popular again. It's important to critically evaluate advice circulating online, especially in chaotic situations like protests.
  2. The 'sit down wave' meme told protesters to sit down during violence, but this is a dangerous idea. It can make people vulnerable and unable to escape harm.
  3. Even when misinformation is debunked, it can still go viral. People should be careful about sharing unverified content, especially from popular accounts.

American Nationalism, Teddy-Roosevelt Style!

Brad DeLong's Grasping Reality • 215 implied HN points • 24 Feb 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Nationalism Progressivism Wealth Inequality Financial Policy
  1. Teddy Roosevelt aimed to emphasize the importance of American heritage and the impact of the Pilgrims and Puritans on the nation.
  2. He advocated for building on the positive qualities of the past while recognizing the advancements made since then.
  3. Roosevelt promoted fighting against plutocracy and enforcing fair treatment in wealth accumulation, favoring a balance of individual initiative and collective responsibility.

On Day 2 of His Presidency, Donald Trump Fired a Bazooka Directly Into the Faces of His Voters

Proof • 75 implied HN points • 22 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Policy Governance Public Opinion Political parties
  1. Many supporters feel that their values and expectations were ignored by Donald Trump early in his presidency. It seems like the decisions made didn't align with what voters wanted.
  2. The first few days of Trump's presidency were filled with actions that caught many voters off guard. This created a sense of betrayal among his supporters.
  3. Overall, the reactions to Trump's early actions highlight a disconnect between what his supporters hoped for and what he delivered right after taking office.

August 16, 2025

Letters from an American • 23 implied HN points • 17 Aug 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Relations Military Political strategy International Law
  1. Trump met with Putin in Alaska, which was controversial since Putin is accused of serious crimes. This meeting appeared more like a power play for Putin than a productive dialogue.
  2. There were conflicting signals about what both leaders wanted from the summit. While Trump seemed optimistic, it was unclear if any real progress was made on important issues like Ukraine.
  3. Russia's presence at this meeting suggested that they want to reestablish their power on the world stage. This worried leaders in Ukraine and Europe, who thought Trump might make concessions to Putin.

'Hate and lust for vengeance are passed like poison from one generation to the next'

God's Spies by Thomas Neuburger • 110 implied HN points • 23 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics War Policy Foreign Relations National Security Human Rights
  1. Hate and revenge can be taught from one generation to the next, much like a curse that keeps going.
  2. The actions of powerful countries, like the U.S. and Israel, have serious consequences that may lead to more violence and retribution.
  3. It's important to remember the past and understand that people who suffer might seek revenge, which can lead to cycles of violence that never seem to end.

False Flag Attack

KERFUFFLE • 35 implied HN points • 13 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Immigration Protests Legislation Political Opinion Public Reaction
  1. Waving Mexican flags in protests can symbolize pride and solidarity among immigrant communities, especially during challenging times.
  2. In past protests, the visibility of Mexican flags was criticized, but the current environment shows a shift in focus from seeking acceptance to defending against aggressive policies.
  3. Protesters aren't waving flags to win over public opinion but to affirm their identity and resist what they see as an attack on their community.

Briefly Noted

Unpopular Front • 35 implied HN points • 12 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory Elections Political Economy Political History Public Policy
  1. Trump's idea of rebuilding America mixes old protectionist ideas with modern technology. This mix shows a deep desire to return to a past way of doing things while ignoring the advancements of the Enlightenment.
  2. Trump represents both wealth and the chaos of financial failure. His life story reflects a bigger story about America, blending success with economic downturns.
  3. To understand Trump and his influence, it's important to look at his financial struggles and how they match up with the nation's challenges. His rise is tied to a deeper sense of despair in American politics.

Major Media Sure Seems to Be Trying to Help Donald Trump Destroy Elon Musk

Proof • 37 implied HN points • 07 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Media influence Public Perception Political Conflict Trump Politics Corporate Influence
  1. Elon Musk is very critical of major media, and it seems they are siding with Donald Trump against him now.
  2. There are new tensions between Trump and Musk due to comments Musk made about Trump’s past.
  3. This ongoing feud highlights how media influences public perception of both business leaders.

The Media Is Furious That Dr. Jay Bhattacharya Will Be Head of NIH

Unmasked • 96 implied HN points • 27 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Health Policy Media Public Opinion Leadership
  1. Dr. Jay Bhattacharya has been appointed as the head of the National Institutes of Health. He is highly qualified with degrees in medicine and health policy.
  2. His appointment is seen as a challenge to previous leadership at NIH, particularly to Anthony Fauci and Francis Collins, as he supports evidence-based science rather than political ideology.
  3. The media is reacting negatively to his appointment because he has publicly opposed strict COVID-19 measures like lockdowns and mask mandates.

WEEKLY BRIEFLY NOTED: For 2024-12-24 Tu

Brad DeLong's Grasping Reality • 84 implied HN points • 24 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Analysis Government Policy Election insights Public Opinion Current Events
  1. Consumers' expectations can shift based on political events, and that's something to pay attention to in economic forecasts.
  2. The rise of women's empowerment in writing and being heard was slow, but significant changes started around the year 1800.
  3. The distribution of goods in the Roman Empire heavily favored the Mediterranean, showing its central role in trade and economy.

The Hon. Amb. Dr. Harald Malmgren Passed....

Dr. Pippa's Pen & Podcast • 66 implied HN points • 24 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political History Elections Trade policy International relations
  1. Dr. Harald Malmgren was a significant figure, advising many U.S. presidents and global leaders throughout his career. His insights shaped policy during critical historical moments, including the Cuban Missile Crisis.
  2. He had a deep connection with his daughter, who spent meaningful time with him in his later years. Their relationship evolved, allowing them to reconnect and share important experiences right before his passing.
  3. As she navigates her grief, his daughter plans to pause her writing and embark on a spiritual pilgrimage, reflecting their discussions on the importance of spiritual growth as technology advances.

Three Types of Elite

Bullfish Hole • 58 implied HN points • 09 Apr 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elite Wealth Power
  1. Elites prioritize different dimensions of status like wealth, power, and prestige.
  2. Some individuals have a talent for one dimension of status over the others.
  3. There are distinct differences in the values and characteristics of elites in modern society.

Hunger In America

crimeandpunishment • 58 implied HN points • 08 Jun 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Economy Corporate Profits Poverty
  1. Over 25% of American adults are food insecure due to high inflation and the end of pandemic benefits.
  2. The increase in dollar stores has led to negative impacts on locally owned stores and products.
  3. Food prices have surged, and corporate profits are soaring while millions of Americans, including children, face food insecurity.

Florida Republican Governor Seeks to Thwart Trump’s White House Return

The Newsguy -- Steve Herman • 58 implied HN points • 25 May 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Election Presidential Race Political Dynamics Social media Political strategy
  1. Florida Republican Governor Ron DeSantis is challenging Trump for the presidency next year.
  2. DeSantis faced technical glitches during his Twitter Space launch as a presidential candidate.
  3. DeSantis aims to win over Trump's traditional support base, focusing on conservative values and criticisms of Trump.

Imagining a simpler tax code on Tax Day

curiousgeorgist • 58 implied HN points • 18 Apr 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Tax reform
  1. Some countries have a simpler tax system where relevant parties provide tax information, eliminating the need to file taxes.
  2. Complicated tax systems can benefit billionaires by creating loopholes and exceptions.
  3. Advocates of the Single Tax propose a Land Value Tax to simplify taxes, reduce inequality, and make tax filing easier.

Twitter Shoots Itself In The Head

Everything's Broken • 58 implied HN points • 09 May 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Social media Politicians Conspiracy Theories Media bias Far-right
  1. Elon Musk partnered with Tucker Carlson for a show on Twitter, raising concerns about premium video content hosting.
  2. Elon Musk has been amplifying far-right conspiracy theories, creating controversy.
  3. Tucker Carlson's past behaviors and beliefs, like the 'white replacement' theory, have been highly criticized, leading to his firing from Fox News.

NEPA Reform and Infrastructure

Knowledge Problem • 58 implied HN points • 05 Oct 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Policy Environment Infrastructure Reform Legislation
  1. NEPA was established in 1970 to protect the environment and involves thorough environmental impact assessments for federal projects.
  2. There have been debates about NEPA's benefits and drawbacks, with delays and litigation being common criticisms.
  3. Proposals for NEPA reform aim to balance environmental protection with reducing delays in project approvals.

Jim Comey & Me

Under the Hood: The Power of Principled Leadership • 58 implied HN points • 31 May 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Leadership Ethics Justice Education
  1. Edward Levi led us away from the abyss by repairing our democracy after Watergate
  2. Levi's principles included unity over ethics, repairing damage even if not involved, and advocating for women's rights
  3. Early education, equality under the law, and true justice through reconciliation were key elements of Levi's leadership that remain relevant today

The "Globohomo Agenda"

The Questioner • 58 implied HN points • 03 Sep 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Conspiracy Theories Societal Issues Environmental Concerns Censorship Elite Power
  1. The term 'Globohomo Agenda' is used to describe the societal shift towards censorship and authoritarianism driven by globalist fears of overpopulation and resource scarcity.
  2. Many conspiracy theories about collusion among globalist billionaires may actually be tactics to discredit genuine concerns raised by people.
  3. Global elites are pushing for depopulation through sterilization and encouraging gender transition, but their solutions may not address the core issues and could potentially lead to societal collapse.