The hottest U.S. Politics Substack posts right now

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Israel Is Killing Civilians In Gaza On Purpose, And It's Not Even Debatable

Caitlin’s Newsletter • 2468 implied HN points • 27 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy Civil Rights Military Action Media Critique Public Opinion
  1. The actions of the Israeli military in Gaza have been confirmed to be deliberately targeting civilians. Many reports and testimonies highlight that civilian casualties are not accidental.
  2. The narrative used to justify these actions, like claiming civilians are human shields, has been discredited. There's a growing insistence that denying this reality is increasingly difficult.
  3. Society’s beliefs about power and inequality are shaped by stories that benefit those in control. It's possible to change this dynamic if enough people decide to take action against the current system.

A Manifesto for Starmerism 2.0

Odds and Ends of History • 871 implied HN points • 18 Jul 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Elections Policy Political Ideologies Public Opinion
  1. People are feeling down about the current Labour government despite some good actions taken. There's a sense that progress isn't happening quickly enough for many.
  2. The lack of a clear ideology or direction in the government's approach is seen as a problem. Having a strong narrative can guide decision-making and help justify tough choices.
  3. It's important for Keir Starmer to define what 'Starmerism' means. A clear vision could provide coherence and motivation for both the government and the public.

2025 Is Off To A Wild Start

Caitlin’s Newsletter • 2393 implied HN points • 03 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Current Events Military Extremism Immigration Media
  1. Recent news events are raising suspicion, especially involving two military veterans committing violent acts. This has sparked discussion about the connection between military service and extremism.
  2. There are concerns about the current U.S. administration's approach to international conflicts, especially with talks of military action involving Iran. This raises questions about decision-making in leadership.
  3. The debate on immigration is highlighting the exploitation of workers, as both political sides have different reasons for their stance. It's important to consider the impact on all workers, not just the politics surrounding immigration.

Assad’s Fall Has Humiliated Washington

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 2633 implied HN points • 10 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy Middle East Administration Conflict
  1. Syria's recent change in leadership happened despite the efforts of the Biden administration, not because of them. Many believe the U.S. played a minor role in this shift.
  2. President Biden claims that the weakening of Assad's supporters like Iran and Russia is due to his policies, but many disagree with this view. There is a belief that these countries have lost power for other reasons.
  3. Israel's actions in the region have been more impactful than U.S. influence. Some argue that Israel took bold steps that went against what the U.S. wanted, contributing significantly to the change in Syria.
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The Real Hunter Biden Scandal

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 2703 implied HN points • 03 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Scandals Justice System Government Influence Elections
  1. Hunter Biden was pardoned by President Biden, which some see as a sign of favoritism. It raises questions about fairness in the justice system.
  2. There’s a belief among some that certain people have more power and can avoid consequences for their actions. This idea was highlighted by a comment from Congressman Dean Phillips.
  3. The manner in which the pardon was given is unusual, as it happened before Hunter Biden faced any sentencing, unlike past presidential pardons.

What would a third Trump impeachment look like?

Can We Still Govern? • 154 implied HN points • 15 Dec 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Impeachment Presidency Race Bureaucracy Elections Congress
  1. Major historical impeachments share a pattern: they often follow moments of racial or political realignment and involve election interference, abuse of executive power, and attempts to delegitimize opponents.
  2. Trump’s second term stands out for its aggressive politicization of the bureaucracy and use of agencies and enforcement in racially charged ways, which could create grounds for impeachment similar to past cases.
  3. A third impeachment would be as much political as legal: Democrats would need House control and must weigh the political costs, but a clear mix of racial backlash and abuse of state power can sometimes build the coalition to move forward.

"This can happen to you"

Links I Would Gchat You If We Were Friends • 618 implied HN points • 14 Mar 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Conspiracy Theories Misinformation Legislation Immigration Social media
  1. Mainstreaming of trafficking myths linked to QAnon by concerned moms has increased during the pandemic
  2. Misinformation about trafficking and its portrayal in online narratives can be harmful and misdirect resources
  3. Trafficking victims are often marginalized or vulnerable, and trafficking is not limited to just sex trafficking

Why TikTok Can't Take All the Blame For Populism

The Ruffian • 264 implied HN points • 15 Nov 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Populism Political theory Communication Media influence Public Opinion
  1. Populism is hard to define because it doesn't fit neatly into left or right categories. It's more about how politicians communicate and connect with people's feelings than a strict ideology.
  2. Populists often use fast, emotional messaging that bypasses deep thinking, appealing to people's instincts instead of their reasoning. This style works well on platforms like TikTok.
  3. Mainstream politicians tend to avoid simple, catchy ideas because they understand that real solutions are more complex. This creates a gap that populists exploit by offering straightforward answers.

Daniel Penny’s Innocence—and the Shame of Alvin Bragg. Plus. . .

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 2610 implied HN points • 10 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Justice System Political Commentary Civil Rights Government Policy
  1. Daniel Penny was found not guilty in a high-profile trial, raising questions about why he was prosecuted in the first place. The verdict was seen as a relief for Penny and his supporters.
  2. There is concern over rising crime rates in Manhattan during Alvin Bragg's time as district attorney. Critics argue that his decisions have not effectively protected the public.
  3. Entrepreneurs are leaving Norway due to high taxes on unrealized gains. This has been detrimental to business growth and has prompted some to move to more favorable locations.

It begins

Adam's Legal Newsletter • 1677 implied HN points • 08 Aug 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Legal Judiciary Government Indictment
  1. In United States v. Trump, Judge Cannon's order in the Southern District of Florida raises concerns about her administration of the case, despite government arguments against her recusal.
  2. The Justice Department's motion for a 'Garcia hearing' in the Southern District of Florida raises issues of potential conflicts of interest for one of Trump's co-defendants and the need for protecting the defendant's rights to unconflicted counsel.
  3. Judge Cannon's actions in denying the Justice Department's motion to seal and requesting briefing on grand jury proceedings in a seemingly inconsistent manner, prompting questions about her decisions and the case's future direction.

The Photos That Exposed Biden’s Lies

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 2402 implied HN points • 31 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Government Political theory Political parties Media
  1. Official photos have been released showing Joe Biden meeting with his son Hunter's business associates in China. This goes against Biden's previous claims that he never met these partners.
  2. Hunter Biden was involved with BHR Partners, which received significant funding from Chinese entities, and he held a 10 percent stake in this company until at least 2017.
  3. Joe Biden has consistently denied discussing business matters with Hunter or meeting his associates, even when confronted about evidence to the contrary.

This Deal Is Trump's--It Has Always Been Trump's

Phillips’s Newsletter • 248 implied HN points • 20 Nov 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Trump Media Ukraine Russia Foreign Policy
  1. The recent deal is not just a random action; it clearly reflects Donald Trump's views and intentions. It's important to recognize that he was behind it from the start.
  2. Many in the media initially tried to distance Trump from this deal, but evidence shows he was involved and approved it ahead of time. This changes how we view his role in the situation.
  3. Trump's vision for peace seems to favor Russia while ignoring Ukraine's needs. This sheds light on his priorities and raises concerns about his approach to democracy and freedom.

The Case for Pro-Democracy Rituals

The Garden of Forking Paths • 1670 implied HN points • 26 May 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Democracy Rituals Authoritarianism Protest Movements Patriotism
  1. Pro-democracy movements can benefit from utilizing the power of rituals to build strong social connections and a shared sense of purpose.
  2. Rituals have the ability to create a feeling of collective effervescence, fostering unity and a sense of belonging among participants.
  3. It is important for progressive and pro-democracy movements to embrace and develop rituals that celebrate inclusive values and community engagement in order to strengthen their causes.

Trump, Epstein and the Deep State

The Chris Hedges Report • 849 implied HN points • 12 Jul 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political corruption Law enforcement Judicial system Media Ethics
  1. The Trump administration didn't release the Epstein files because it wants to protect powerful people, including Trump himself. This shows that many leaders are part of the same questionable group.
  2. Epstein's connections included a lot of famous and influential individuals. The information gathered about their activities raises serious questions about their misconduct.
  3. The Epstein case reveals a larger issue about how the wealthy and powerful often escape justice. It highlights the troubling behavior of influential figures across political lines.

Scott Adams and Intellectual Courage

QTR’s Fringe Finance • 78 implied HN points • 17 Jan 26
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Media Free speech Cancel Culture Culture Wars Public Health Political Figures
  1. Speaking truth to power in elite circles can cost you your career, income, and reputation, but it preserves personal integrity and can inspire others.
  2. Media and institutional opinion cartels enforce conformity through cancellation, humiliation, and economic pressure, which can suppress dissenting views but often backfires by drawing more attention to them.
  3. Dissenters can still be wrong and should be willing to revise their views, and building alternative platforms lets them keep speaking after mainstream rejection.

Best of The Free Press: Don’t Lie

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 2448 implied HN points • 24 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Media Ethics Political History Election Analysis Political narratives
  1. Honesty is crucial in journalism, and it helps build trust. People prefer straightforward reporting over being misled or given spin.
  2. There has been a dangerous trend where some journalists prioritize their agendas over truth. This shift has hurt the credibility of the media.
  3. Understanding and sticking to the truth matters now more than ever. Good journalism can counteract the lies and misinformation that spread in society.

Israel And Its Apologists Weaponize Sympathy In Order To Facilitate Genocide

Caitlin’s Newsletter • 1890 implied HN points • 23 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy Media Control Public Opinion Manipulation Narrative
  1. People often play the victim to gain sympathy, which helps them control the narrative around important issues. Sympathy makes others more likely to believe their stories.
  2. Manipulators use sympathy as a weapon to get what they want, whether it's attention, resources, or power. This dynamic is seen in various situations, including political debates.
  3. It's important to be cautious about where we direct our sympathy. If it's used manipulatively, it can lead to harm for others, especially in complex situations like international conflicts.

A Note from Bari—and Our Big Thanksgiving Deal

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 2712 implied HN points • 27 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Media Journalism Public Opinion Political Analysis
  1. The Free Press has grown to over 935,000 subscribers, showing strong support and trust from the audience. This growth is almost double compared to last year.
  2. They have covered significant events like the presidential election, focusing on real issues and voices from everyday Americans, which has shaped their trusted reporting.
  3. The organization is expanding its presence through documentaries, podcasts, and live events, aiming to engage with the community and enhance its media offerings.

Trump Team Taps Dr. Matthew J. Memoli as Acting NIH Director, to Control Political Games and Push Aside Lawrence Tabak

The DisInformation Chronicle • 2075 implied HN points • 23 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Public Health Elections Policy Science
  1. Dr. Matthew J. Memoli has been appointed as the acting NIH director to help ease tensions within the agency during the transition.
  2. There are concerns about the previous NIH leadership, particularly Lawrence Tabak, who some claim has been dishonest and evasive regarding the origins of the COVID pandemic.
  3. Memoli's leadership could lead to changes within NIH, as the Trump transition team aims to remove other officials linked to past controversies and restore transparency.

We Need to Talk About China. Plus. . .

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 718 implied HN points • 05 Aug 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy Defense Elections Economy Labor
  1. China is becoming a big problem for the West, especially economically and militarily. Their control over important resources is concerning for many countries.
  2. Taiwan should learn from Ukraine and focus on building strong defense capabilities to protect itself from potential threats.
  3. The U.S. is making technology trade restrictions on China, but some argue these restrictions might backfire and harm American interests instead.

A $140,000/Year Poverty Line? I: Stewarding & Utilizing Resources

Brad DeLong's Grasping Reality • 176 implied HN points • 04 Dec 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Economic Policy Social Policy Public Opinion Income Inequality Middle class
  1. Calling an income like $140,000 "poverty" is misleading because modern material standards mean people at that level usually have access to comforts and goods that were once luxuries.
  2. Many well-off people still feel poor due to precarity, constant social comparison, and a lack of centeredness and mindfulness that make them live unwisely.
  3. Living wisely and well depends on stewardship of resources and attention: prioritize saving and reliable income, avoid status-driven spending, and cultivate stability and sensible habits.

Chartbook 336 Trump's victory in 2024: consolidating the anti-PMC coalition.

Chartbook • 2660 implied HN points • 26 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Political parties Political Identity Class politics Populism
  1. Trump's victory in 2024 showed that the divide in U.S. politics is still very close, with many voters split almost evenly between the two main parties. This means no dramatic changes were seen in the overall support for each side.
  2. There is a growing tension between the Professional Managerial Class (PMC) and the working-class voters who feel disconnected from the traditional Democratic party values. This conflict has fueled the rise of anti-PMC sentiments, particularly among those who feel disenfranchised.
  3. The Democratic party has struggled to maintain support among diverse groups, especially working-class voters, leading to challenges in winning elections. The current political climate reflects deep-seated frustrations that both major parties need to address to stay relevant.

generational wealth

bad cattitude • 201 implied HN points • 22 Nov 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Economic Inequality Socialism Capitalism Political trends Cultural perspectives
  1. Generations Y and Z face higher housing costs, but overall, they earn more than earlier generations did at the same age. Many say things are tougher now, but the data shows they're financially better off.
  2. It’s common for younger people to compare themselves to wealthier peers on social media, leading to feelings of inadequacy. This perspective can create a false sense of financial failure.
  3. The narrative that younger generations have it hardest ignores the fact that they are the best-off financially in history. Misunderstanding their situation could lead them to support systems that may not work for their benefit.

Is Gaza Starving? Searching for Truth in an Information War. Plus. . . 

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 760 implied HN points • 28 Jul 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations Media influence Conflict analysis Civil Rights Public Opinion
  1. There is a serious food crisis in Gaza, with many people concerned about famine. However, it's tough to know the actual truth due to a lot of misinformation in the media.
  2. Some images shared online are misleading. For example, a photo of a sick child was presented as evidence of starvation when the child's condition was unrelated to hunger.
  3. Understanding the truth in conflicts like this is really important. Misinformation can impact people's perception and responses to the ongoing situation.

Mike Johnson believes homosexuality is a "choice." Did he in fact make one?

The Signorile Report • 1658 implied HN points • 01 Nov 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Christianity LGBTQ Rights Political Activism
  1. Some individuals who are vocal against homosexuality may actually be struggling with their own sexual orientation.
  2. Believing that homosexuality is a choice may indicate internal conflicts or attempts to suppress one's true self.
  3. Past involvement in promoting 'ex-gay' therapy could suggest personal struggles with sexual identity.

How We Voted in 2016 Contributed to UnitedHealth's Acquisition of Change Healthcare

HEALTH CARE un-covered • 479 implied HN points • 09 Apr 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Healthcare Regulation Judiciary Corporate
  1. The 2016 election had lasting effects on healthcare, influencing how major companies like UnitedHealth operate and acquire others. Our votes in elections can impact our everyday lives, including healthcare costs and data security.
  2. UnitedHealth acquired Change Healthcare despite government pushback, which raised concerns about competition and data security. The deal was approved partly because of a judge who favored business interests over regulatory caution.
  3. Big corporations, like UnitedHealth, are becoming more powerful, controlling more parts of the healthcare system. This trend can lead to increased costs and reduced patient protections, making it crucial to pay attention to political choices that affect healthcare regulations.

You don't hate Congress. You hate losing.

Matt’s Five Points • 319 implied HN points • 16 May 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Legislation Public Opinion Political Process Democracy
  1. Congress is not popular, and its approval ratings are quite low, often under 20%. This means many people express frustration with it, but it often stems from deeper feelings of losing in the political system.
  2. Losing in a democracy can feel terrible. Whether it's in Congress or at a local meeting, people often get upset when their views aren't prioritized or when they don't get their way.
  3. Everyone is capable of feeling like losers in politics because decisions often have winners and losers. This frustration is common and can lead to heated feelings about politicians and government processes.

Commentator

Castalia • 359 implied HN points • 06 May 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Protests Elections Political parties Foreign Relations Social movements
  1. There's a growing divide within the Democratic Party between liberals and progressives, especially around the Israel/Palestine conflict. This split is becoming more visible as protests on campuses reflect differing worldviews.
  2. Protests are showing strong anti-Israel sentiments and are affecting US politics. These movements could add unexpected pressure on the current administration, similar to how unrest shaped past elections.
  3. Internationally, the situation in the Sahel is worsening as countries there are turning away from US partnerships and looking to Russia for support. This reflects a larger shift in global power dynamics.

If They Don't Believe They're Enemies, Why Should You?

Caitlin’s Newsletter • 2267 implied HN points • 10 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Rhetoric Public Policy Social Issues Political Conflict Media influence
  1. If leaders from opposing sides, like Trump and Obama, can be friendly, it makes you question why others believe they have to fight constantly.
  2. Many supporters have strange contradictions in their beliefs, like claiming to support America first while backing a foreign country's interests.
  3. There's a serious gap in understanding the real conflict, where one side is portrayed as a victim while the other is seen as the oppressor, making it crucial to recognize the true relationships and not just the narratives.

February 12, 2026

Letters from an American • 28 implied HN points • 13 Feb 26
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Executive Environment Justice National Security Energy Foreign affairs Corruption
  1. The administration is rolling back climate protections and promoting coal, reversing years of emissions progress and risking more pollution and extreme-weather costs.
  2. The executive branch is resisting congressional oversight and appears to be weaponizing information, shown by withheld files, confrontational hearings, and possible surveillance of lawmakers.
  3. Close ties between officials and wealthy private or foreign interests — including fundraising promises, business deals, and reports of intercepted conversations — raise serious conflicts of interest and national-security concerns.

Next for Ukraine

Diane Francis • 1179 implied HN points • 11 Dec 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy Military Aid Democracy Legislation Geopolitics
  1. Ukraine is facing challenges in getting the military aid it needs as political obstacles grow in both the U.S. and Europe. Leaders are rushing to resolve these issues since aid is crucial for Ukraine's defense.
  2. There are fears that without adequate support, Ukraine could experience severe consequences, including more refugees and a potential military collapse. Historical experts are worried about the broader impact on global stability.
  3. Despite political delays, some military aid is still being provided to Ukraine. The Ukrainian leaders remain determined to continue fighting for their country and not to give up any territory.

Bari Weiss Overplayed Her Hand (60 Minutes Update)

JoeWrote • 134 implied HN points • 26 Dec 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Media Culture war Immigration Economy Foreign Policy Elections Education Corporate Influence
  1. Most Americans voted because of economic concerns, not to endorse a conservative cultural agenda. The right’s effort to force conservative cultural changes is unpopular and is annoying voters as the economy worsens, hurting Trump’s support.
  2. A powerful media figure reshaped a major news network to favor conservative and pro‑Israel voices, firing staff and promoting partisan programming. Pulling an investigative 60 Minutes segment to protect the administration was widely seen as censorship and damaged the network’s credibility.
  3. Conservative media tends to reassure its base instead of persuading undecided viewers, which comes off as elitist and out of touch. Billionaire consolidation of media could amplify that bias and provoke a broader public backlash against the right.