The Chris Hedges Report

The Chris Hedges Report analyzes US foreign policy, economic conditions, and civil liberties, focusing on Israel's policies towards Palestinians, the manipulation of historical narratives, censorship, the exploitation of identity politics, and the consequences of US-led wars. It highlights systemic injustices, genocide allegations, and the complicity of Western governments.

US Foreign Policy Economic Conditions Civil Liberties Israeli-Palestinian Conflict Historical Narratives Censorship and Free Speech Identity Politics US-led Wars Genocide and War Crimes Western Government Complicity

The hottest Substack posts of The Chris Hedges Report

And their main takeaways

Watch me Speak at the Workers Strike Back Conference LIVE Now!

147 implied HN points • 22 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Labor Rights Political parties Government Policy Social movements Economic Inequality
  1. Both Republicans and Democrats serve the interests of the rich, not working people. We need to stand up for workers' rights against both parties.
  2. Major billionaires like Musk, Bezos, and Zuckerberg are harming workers and are anti-union. Their actions show they don’t care about the rights of everyday people.
  3. It's crucial to create a new working-class movement that is independent of the current political parties. This movement should aim for better healthcare, housing, and an end to military funding.

The Purge of the Deep State and the Road to Dictatorship

605 implied HN points • 18 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Elections Authoritarianism Civil Rights Political History Public Policy
  1. The Trump administration is pushing for a major shift in how the government operates, aiming to replace officials with their loyal supporters. This could lead to a situation where laws are only what the leaders say they are, weakening democracy.
  2. There are concerns about the increasing power of large corporations and technology companies, which could misuse personal data and control more aspects of government. This threatens both people's privacy and their rights.
  3. The rise of authoritarianism in leadership can lead to divisions in society, where dissenters face harsh repression. People are urged to resist this and hold onto their moral values, even if it seems difficult.

The Mafia State

575 implied HN points • 15 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Economy Corruption Environment Society
  1. The current economic system is leading to great inequality, where the rich get richer while many others suffer. This creates a 'mafia state' that prioritizes the wealthy and exploits the rest.
  2. The degradation of environmental and social protections is harmful to everyone. Decisions being made today are damaging the planet and the well-being of many people.
  3. Reforming this system is not enough; systemic change is needed. Collective action and new ideas for social structure can help address these deep-rooted issues.

One Day, Everyone Will Have Always Been Against This (w/ Omar El Akkad) | The Chris Hedges Report

146 implied HN points • 19 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Relations Media Ethics Human Rights Social justice Political Commentary
  1. Language can hide the truth about violence and suffering. It helps people look away without feeling guilty, making it easier to ignore what's really happening.
  2. Those living under oppression have their own ways to resist, and it's not fair for outsiders to dictate how they should fight back. Resistance comes in many forms, and often there's no right way to do it.
  3. Acts of love and solidarity are happening every day, even in difficult times. These small actions remind us that we are connected and that caring for one another is essential, despite the harsh realities around us.

The Empire Self-Destructs

960 implied HN points • 07 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory Corruption Foreign Policy Civil Liberties State power
  1. Empires often collapse due to internal problems like corruption, poor decisions, and failed policies. When this happens, their power and influence break down too.
  2. Some leaders and groups are pushing for a more extreme and Christian-based government, which threatens the democratic and diverse values of society.
  3. The way the U.S. gives foreign aid is often harmful and designed to control other countries, leading to more inequality at home and abroad.
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Virtue Hoarders and the Rejection of Liberalism (w/ Catherine Liu) | The Chris Hedges Report

168 implied HN points • 13 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory Labor Issues Election Analysis Cultural critique
  1. The professional managerial class (PMC) often ignores the real needs of the working class while focusing on virtue signaling. Instead of addressing issues that affect everyday workers, they get caught up in cultural fights.
  2. There is a growing disconnect between political elites and the realities faced by average Americans. Many politicians prioritize polls and focus groups over genuine conversations with the public.
  3. A strong sense of anti-authoritarianism and a desire for grassroots change exists in America. With the right focus, this discontent could unite people around common goals that benefit the working class.

The Western Way of Genocide

453 implied HN points • 01 Feb 25
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics Human Rights Conflict International Law Military Affairs
  1. Gaza is facing a severe humanitarian crisis with no clean water or food, leading to widespread sickness and suffering among its population.
  2. The ongoing violence and destruction in Gaza are seen as part of a larger strategy to control resources and land, with little support from international allies to stop it.
  3. Historical patterns of genocide and oppression are highlighted, stressing that current actions are not unique, but rather resemble past atrocities committed by powerful nations against marginalized groups.

Arab Regimes and the Betrayal of Palestine (w/ Farah El-Sharif) | The Chris Hedges Report

159 implied HN points • 05 Feb 25
🌍 World Politics Middle East International relations Geopolitics Conflict Studies Human Rights
  1. Many Muslim leaders prioritize their relationships with Western powers over their own people, leading to betrayal, especially regarding Palestine. This often results in silence or complicity in the face of violence against their communities.
  2. The oppression faced by Muslim communities is deeply tied to colonial and imperial actions, which continues to create divisions and reap devastation across the region. The struggle in Gaza highlights the extent of this systemic injustice.
  3. Young Muslims are seeking strong, moral leadership that stands for justice and integrity. They feel disillusioned by leaders who fail to uphold these values, and they are inspired to look to historical figures who embodied true resistance.

The Ceasefire Charade

591 implied HN points • 16 Jan 25
🌍 World Politics Middle East Conflict Palestine Israel Diplomacy
  1. Israel often makes agreements with the Palestinians that it does not keep. This leads to renewed violence after initial phases.
  2. There is ongoing suspicion and blame between Israel and Hamas over who is breaking ceasefire terms. Both sides have different interpretations of the deals.
  3. Historically, peace agreements have often not been fulfilled, leading to continued conflict and suffering for the people involved.

Democracy Doesn’t Exist in the United States: Chris Hedges | UpFront

235 implied HN points • 31 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Democracy Election Policy Government Foreign Relations
  1. Many people worry about the future of democracy in the U.S., especially with political leaders like Donald Trump. They think his return could change things for the worse.
  2. Concerns are rising about how Trump’s second term might affect both domestic policies and foreign relations, particularly in the Middle East. People wonder what that will mean for the country's direction.
  3. Chris Hedges, a well-known journalist, believes that democracy in America is not truly existing anymore. He expresses this view in various discussions and writings.

My Birthday Toast to my Palestinian Arabic Teacher

238 implied HN points • 29 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Language Education Art Social Issues Identity
  1. The Arabic teacher, Ruba, uses honesty and humor to engage her students, making learning fun and memorable.
  2. Both the teacher and student share a deep emotional connection, often supporting each other through hard times, especially regarding difficult current events.
  3. The classes become a form of therapy and resilience, reminding them that they must continue learning and resisting despite the challenges they face.

Trump, Musk, Gaza, the Rise of Totalitarianism and the End of the US Empire

353 implied HN points • 21 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political issues Totalitarianism Global relations Media influence
  1. The rise of totalitarianism is a growing concern in today's society. Many people feel freedom is slipping away and that authoritarian leaders are gaining power.
  2. The situation in Gaza highlights major issues related to human rights and global political struggles. This conflict affects many lives and raises questions about justice and peace.
  3. There is a sentiment that the US empire is declining. Some believe that both political and economic issues point to a significant change in power and influence on the world stage.

Fire Weather

392 implied HN points • 12 Jan 25
🌞 Climate & Environment Wildfires Fossil fuels Climate change Environmental Policy
  1. Wildfires are becoming more common due to climate change and a reliance on fossil fuels. Areas like California are facing intense fire seasons, which scientists warned would happen.
  2. The boreal forests, which play a critical role in storing carbon and providing fresh water, are being destroyed by industrial activities like oil extraction. This destruction contributes to the worsening fire conditions.
  3. Modern homes are highly flammable because they're made with many petroleum-based materials. When they catch fire, they can burn much hotter than older buildings, making wildfires even more dangerous.

Technofeudalism: What Killed Capitalism (w/ Yanis Varoufakis) | The Chris Hedges Report

146 implied HN points • 29 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Economics Capitalism Policy Technology Social Issues
  1. Yanis Varoufakis argues that capitalism is dead and has been replaced by 'technofeudalism', where power is held by digital platform owners like Amazon and Google instead of traditional capitalists. This means we now work for these tech giants like serfs on a feudal estate.
  2. In today's world, our digital identities and personal data are owned by private companies, which affects our autonomy and privacy. We are constantly being influenced and monitored by these companies, changing how we interact with others and ourselves.
  3. Varoufakis suggests that to reclaim power, we need to combine traditional labor movements with new technology. This could mean organizing strikes and boycotts while also using digital tools to create parallel systems that empower workers and challenge corporate control.

Chris Hedges: The Nature of Good and Evil

150 implied HN points • 28 Jan 25
📖 Philosophy Ethics Morality Human nature Social Critique
  1. Everyone has the capacity for both good and evil within them. It's important to recognize this duality in ourselves and others.
  2. In tough times, we often see real kindness and humanity shine through. These moments remind us of the best parts of people.
  3. It's vital to critique power structures rather than fall into hatred for groups or individuals. Focusing on power allows for healthier discussions.

How Fascism Came

676 implied HN points • 23 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory Authoritarianism Social Inequality Corporate Influence
  1. America's democracy is facing big problems because both major political parties have sided with big companies and the rich. This has created a lot of social inequality and hurt ordinary people.
  2. The idea of fascism can grow when people feel left out and hopeless about their futures. If the needs of the struggling middle class and poor aren't addressed, it can lead to dangerous movements.
  3. The media and politics today often feel like a show, with truth taking a backseat to entertainment. This makes it hard for people to see what's really happening in society.

Genocide: The New Normal

399 implied HN points • 06 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy Military Aid Human Rights Conflict resolution International relations
  1. The ongoing violence in Gaza is seen as a methodical effort to eliminate the Palestinian population and solidify Israeli control over the region.
  2. The U.S. government has significantly increased military aid to Israel, reflecting a disregard for international laws and the consequences of war.
  3. Acts of violence and resistance are part of a cycle that can lead to more intense conflicts, suggesting that violence breeds more violence.

Don't Deify Jimmy Carter

493 implied HN points • 30 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political History Foreign Policy Human Rights Domestic Policy
  1. Jimmy Carter did some good work after being president, like speaking out for human rights, but during his presidency, he made many poor decisions.
  2. He supported actions that led to problems in places like Iran, Nicaragua, and Afghanistan, impacting many lives negatively.
  3. While he cared about human rights, many of his actions as president showed a lack of understanding of international issues, leading to a complicated legacy.

The Killing of Brian Thompson

719 implied HN points • 05 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Health Policy Insurance Economic Impact Corporate Accountability Public Health
  1. The CEO of UnitedHealthcare, Brian Thompson, was recently killed, sparking questions about possible motives related to healthcare policies and insurance denials.
  2. In the U.S., healthcare spending is highest among wealthy countries, but health outcomes are among the worst, with many people facing financial ruin due to medical bills.
  3. The business practices of health insurance companies are criticized for prioritizing profits over patient care, which can lead to unnecessary suffering and death.

War on Gaza (w/ Joe Sacco) | The Chris Hedges Report

111 implied HN points • 22 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Civil Rights Foreign Relations Media Criticism Censorship
  1. Joe Sacco uses graphic journalism to share stories from war zones, bringing a unique perspective that traditional media often misses. His work combines drawings and humor to convey tough realities.
  2. Sacco raises important questions about how we define aggression and self-defense, especially in context of the violence in Gaza. He suggests we need new terms to describe the complex nature of these conflicts.
  3. The discussion highlights the moral dilemmas faced in voting and supporting policies that contribute to violence, questioning how citizens can remain complicit while wanting change.

Exposing Big Tech’s Complicity in Genocide | The Chris Hedges Report

226 implied HN points • 01 Jan 25
🕹 Technology Big Tech Censorship Data Privacy Corporate ethics Digital Rights
  1. Many big tech companies are accused of censoring information about the situation in Gaza, with some employees losing their jobs for speaking out against this censorship.
  2. Employees from companies like Meta, Microsoft, and Apple report that there are double standards when it comes to moderating content, often suppressing pro-Palestinian voices while allowing anti-Palestinian sentiments to thrive.
  3. Some tech companies are deeply involved in supporting military actions in Israel, providing necessary technology and services that could be used in the ongoing conflict.

Chris Hedges Live Q&A NOW: What Happens Under Trump in Palestine

86 implied HN points • 24 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Elections Policy Foreign Relations Political Commentary
  1. Chris Hedges is hosting a live Q&A about Trump and Palestine. He encourages people to join and ask questions during the session.
  2. The discussion likely focuses on the impacts of Trump's policies on the situation in Palestine, which is a sensitive and important topic.
  3. People can support Chris Hedges' work by subscribing to his publication, which offers both free and paid options.

America's Academic Gulag (w/ MIT Student Activists) | The Chris Hedges Report

124 implied HN points • 15 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Civil Rights Education & Policy Activism Human Rights
  1. Students at MIT are speaking out against the university's involvement in military research that supports violence. They believe their work should be aligned with ethics and not contribute to harm.
  2. The university administration has been accused of trying to silence dissenting voices by disciplining students who criticize military collaborations. This raises concerns about freedom of speech and the treatment of student activists.
  3. There is a growing call for universities to reconsider their partnerships with the military and to support human rights. Students want their research to promote peace rather than contribute to violence.

The Zionists Kill Doctors in Gaza and Silence Them Here (w/ Rupa Marya) | The Chris Hedges Report

156 implied HN points • 09 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Civil Rights Health Policy International relations Public Health Activism
  1. Hospitals are supposed to be safe places during war, but the attacks on medical facilities in Gaza are a serious violation of international law. Medical workers and their facilities should always be protected.
  2. There is a troubling connection between the silencing of healthcare workers in the U.S. and the violence against them in Gaza. By keeping doctors quiet here, it allows for the continuation of harm abroad.
  3. The ongoing health crisis in Gaza, caused by lack of resources and intentional targeting, is creating a humanitarian disaster. Immediate aid and changes in policy are needed to support the health and life of Palestinian people.

The Politics of Cultural Despair

607 implied HN points • 06 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory Elections Social Issues Corporate Influence Civil Rights
  1. Despair is a major issue in society today. Many people are struggling with feelings of hopelessness due to lost jobs, poor economic conditions, and a lack of political representation.
  2. The rise of cult leaders reflects a society that feels powerless. People often turn to these leaders in hope of regaining control and finding meaning in their lives.
  3. To create real change, we need to focus on organizing and striking against corporate power. This can help restore dignity and purpose to people's lives and tackle the problems caused by a failing system.

Letter to Refaat Alareer

302 implied HN points • 10 Dec 24
📚 Literature Poetry Writing Human Rights Censorship Conflict
  1. Poetry can hold immense power, serving as a way to express emotions like hope, loss, and resistance against oppression. It connects people and keeps their stories alive.
  2. Many individuals, including students, journalists, and academics, are facing serious consequences, such as losing jobs or being silenced, for speaking out against injustice and violence.
  3. Remembering the stories of those who have suffered, like Palestinian poet Refaat Alareer, is crucial. Their voices continue to resonate and challenge the narrative imposed by oppressive forces.

Organized Oblivion

430 implied HN points • 18 Nov 24
🌍 World Politics Conflict Genocide Memory Cultural Identity
  1. The people of Gaza are facing destruction and will struggle to preserve their memories, similar to survivors of past genocides. They will create memoirs, maps, and stories to keep their history alive.
  2. Forgetfulness can lead to the loss of identity and culture, especially after traumatic events like genocide. Remembering the past is essential to understand who we are and protect our heritage.
  3. The erasure of places and people, like the fate of the Armenian community, shows the harsh reality of genocide. We must remember and fight against oblivion to honor those who suffered and to keep their stories alive.

Chris Hedges Live Q&A Tomorrow: What Happens Under Trump in Palestine

57 implied HN points • 23 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Foreign Policy Civil Rights Political Commentary Government
  1. There will be a live Q&A discussing what might happen in Palestine under a Trump administration. This means viewers can ask questions and get insights directly.
  2. The talk is set for a specific time, and people can participate by posting their questions beforehand. It's a good opportunity for those who are engaged in this topic.
  3. The event is focused on understanding the future relationship between the U.S. and Palestine, especially with recent developments like a ceasefire. It's important to keep questions brief to get good answers.

Lee Lakeman and The Whoredom of the Left

317 implied HN points • 16 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Feminism Neoliberalism Social justice Political Activism Patriarchy
  1. Lee Lakeman believes prostitution is a form of economic slavery, reflecting the failures of capitalism. Many women and girls engage in it not by choice, but out of desperation.
  2. The fight against prostitution is also a battle against dehumanizing neoliberal capitalism. Lakeman emphasizes that true activism should focus on protecting vulnerable individuals rather than accepting the status quo.
  3. There is a deep division within the left regarding issues of women's rights and exploitation. Lakeman argues that without acknowledging these issues, the left becomes ineffective in truly supporting all marginalized groups.

Enduring the Trauma of Genocide (w/ Gabor Maté) | The Chris Hedges Report

171 implied HN points • 13 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Human Rights Middle East Social justice
  1. Trauma affects everyone, not just the victims. It's important to recognize how painful experiences can impact our hearts and minds.
  2. People can lose their moral compass when they're hurt. Understanding and compassion can help heal these wounds and improve how we treat others.
  3. It's vital to connect with others and take care of ourselves. Sharing feelings and practicing self-care can help us cope with the pain we see in the world.

Chris Hedges on MOATS: Catastrophe for the Palestinians and the Region

137 implied HN points • 22 Dec 24
🌍 World Politics International relations Conflict Studies Middle East Human Rights Political Analysis
  1. The situation for the Palestinians is dire, leading to increased suffering and instability in the region.
  2. There are significant consequences for neighboring countries as the conflict escalates, potentially affecting their security and politics.
  3. Understanding this issue requires recognizing the historical context and ongoing impact on people's lives in the affected areas.

The Fall of Assad & What it Means for The Middle East (w/ Alastair Crooke) | The Chris Hedges Report

173 implied HN points • 10 Dec 24
🌍 World Politics Middle East Geopolitics International relations Conflict analysis Political Dynamics
  1. The fall of Assad in Syria changes the political landscape of the Middle East. It might lead to power struggles among various groups like Hayat Tahrir al-Sham and increase tensions involving Turkey and Israel.
  2. Syria's economy is heavily damaged, with lost oil resources and widespread poverty. Without recovering these resources, the country will struggle to rebuild and provide for its people.
  3. The situation has potential global implications as conflicts may spread, involving neighboring countries like Lebanon and Iraq, and could even lead to a war with Iran which would have serious consequences for the entire region.

The Meaning of Christmas (w/ Rev. Munther Isaac) | The Chris Hedges Report

122 implied HN points • 19 Dec 24
⛪ Faith & Spirituality Theology Religion Christianity Justice Oppression
  1. The story of Christmas is deeply rooted in struggle and oppression. For those in Palestine, the themes of refugees and tyranny resonate strongly with the Christmas narrative.
  2. Everyone should be seen as a neighbor, and we must show compassion to all, not just those who are like us. The message of the Good Samaritan challenges us to break down the barriers we create.
  3. Christianity calls for solidarity with the oppressed. Faith should inspire action to support human rights and justice rather than maintaining silence or neutrality in the face of conflict.

Dog Day Afternoon: The Christmas Edition

128 implied HN points • 16 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Art Literature Humor Music Holidays
  1. This piece is a special holiday message focusing on themes relevant to Christmas. It reflects on emotions and connections, reminding us of the festive spirit.
  2. The author encourages readers to consider subscribing for more content. This shows the importance of supporting creators and their work.
  3. There are interactive elements, like sharing and commenting, emphasizing community engagement. Readers are invited to connect and share their thoughts.

Chris Hedges at UCSB: To Kill a People

209 implied HN points • 23 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy Human Rights Geopolitics Civil Rights Military conflict
  1. The ongoing conflict in Gaza is described as a genocide, with severe violence leading to significant loss of life and displacement of many Palestinians. The situation creates a long-term cycle of vengeance and suffering.
  2. Historical patterns show that oppressive actions often create more enemies and escalate conflicts over time. Past U.S. military interventions have similarly resulted in ongoing cycles of violence.
  3. To address the injustices and violence in Gaza, a major shift is needed in U.S. policy, including halting military support for Israel. A collective moral stance is crucial to prevent complicity in ongoing atrocities.

Genocidal Scorecard

311 implied HN points • 30 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Human Rights International Law Middle East Political Commentary
  1. A recent U.N. report describes Israel's actions in Gaza as a systematic genocide against Palestinians, warning that this violence is expanding to the West Bank.
  2. The report emphasizes a need for international action, including a full arms embargo on Israel, to stop the ongoing atrocities and assist Palestinian communities.
  3. Israel's current tactics, which include forced displacements and attacks on aid, are creating dire humanitarian conditions, threatening the survival of the Palestinian people.

A Rogue Reporter vs. The American Empire (w/ Matt Kennard) | The Chris Hedges Report

151 implied HN points • 05 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy Media Critique Imperialism Social movements Investigative Journalism
  1. The U.S. plays a large role in influencing foreign elections and governments, often undermining leaders who promote democratic socialism in favor of its own corporate interests. This has been seen in places like Bolivia.
  2. The media often fails to expose the darker side of U.S. foreign policies. Instead of revealing the truths about interventions and human rights violations, they uphold narratives that support the idea of the U.S. as a benevolent force.
  3. Zionism and the Israel lobby heavily influence political discourse, particularly around Palestine. Criticism of this influence has increased, leading many to reconsider their views on colonialism and imperialism.

Israel’s War on Journalism

282 implied HN points • 25 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Censorship Foreign Policy Journalism Ethics Human Rights
  1. Journalists in Gaza face extreme danger, with many being targeted and killed. This has led to a significant decline in press freedom in the region.
  2. Foreign reporters in Israel are often controlled by the military and may not report the true situation on the ground in Gaza. This creates a misleading narrative around the conflict.
  3. The actions of the Israeli government against journalists threaten global press freedom. It sends a message that those revealing the truth about war can be silenced or harmed.

Chris Hedges Live Q&A Tonight, 4:00p.m. PT / 7:00p.m. ET — Come Ask me a Question

49 implied HN points • 08 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Politics Media Public Engagement Trump Era Live Events
  1. There will be a live Q&A session at 4:00 PM PT / 7:00 PM ET tonight. It's a chance for people to ask questions directly.
  2. The host encourages participants to keep their questions short and direct for ease of discussion during the live session.
  3. To join in and ask a question, you need to be a paid subscriber to the platform hosting the event.