Can We Still Govern?

Can We Still Govern? explores the intersection of government quality, public policy, administration burdens, and political influence on governmental functionality. It addresses issues like DEI, administrative competence, political accountability, the impact of ideological priorities over organizational goals, and strategies to improve governance through reducing administrative sludge and protecting democratic processes.

Government Quality Public Policy Administrative Burdens Political Accountability Ideological Influence on Governance Democratic Processes Organizational Management Judicial Decisions

The hottest Substack posts of Can We Still Govern?

And their main takeaways

A conversation with Jen Pahlka

81 implied HN points • 02 Jul 25

Abundance means creating more opportunities and resources for everyone, especially those who struggle. It's about understanding that some systems create artificial scarcity, making life harder for people in need.
State and local governments can improve by focusing on their internal processes to deliver better services. Leaders should prioritize building their capacity from the ground up to meet the community's needs.
The civic tech community should be bold and proactive in improving government services. Instead of just reacting to changes, they should aim to innovate and create solutions that genuinely help people.

How the reconciliation bill would change America

357 implied HN points • 30 Jun 25

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Legislation Policy Government Inequality Security

The recent reconciliation bill favors the rich while harming the poor, making it harder for those in need to access benefits like healthcare and food support.
It significantly increases funding for the security state, leading to more aggressive enforcement actions and potentially less safety for everyday people.
The bill could massively increase the national deficit and cut support for renewable energy, which would hurt efforts to address climate change and invest in future generations.

Will civil servants guard against illiberal power grabs?

109 implied HN points • 01 Jul 25

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Democracy Governance Bureaucracy Civil Service Populism

Civil servants may not always oppose undemocratic policies. Their views vary based on their political beliefs and affiliations.
When civil servants see proposed changes as threats, they often consider quitting their jobs rather than resisting, reflecting their desire to maintain their integrity.
In polarized societies, bureaucracies may fail to act as neutral defenders of democracy because their members have differing opinions on what's harmful to democracy.

How Medicaid Work Requirements Betray Work and Waste Money

172 implied HN points • 26 Jun 25

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Health Policy Welfare Government programs Legislation Social Issues

Work requirements for Medicaid and SNAP can create a lot of unnecessary rules that actually hurt people trying to find work. Instead of helping them, these rules can cut off health insurance and make things worse.
Most people on Medicaid are working or in school, so the idea that they're not doing anything is not true. The new work requirements will lead to many losing coverage, which could be life-threatening.
The way this law is set up seems to help government contractors more than it helps those in need. It's expensive to manage, and it could actually cost low-income people thousands of dollars each year.

Congress Fights Back...Against Congress

215 implied HN points • 25 Jun 25

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Congress Oversight Trump Legislation

Congressional Republicans are weakening their own institutions to support Trump. This makes it hard for them to check the power of the executive branch.
In the past, Congress has tried to improve its ability to oversee the presidency, but now it seems to be accepting Trump's attacks on their oversight capabilities.
The budget cuts to important analysis groups like the GAO are not about saving money. They are aimed at making it harder for Congress to challenge government actions that don't follow the law.

Get a weekly roundup of the best Substack posts, by hacker news affinity:

Robodebt: When automation fails

157 implied HN points • 23 Jun 25

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Public Policy Government Welfare Automation Technology

The Robodebt system in Australia failed because it used bad assumptions that caused serious mistakes, affecting many people negatively. This shows how dangerous it can be to rely on automation without fully testing it first.
When the government tried to recover supposed overpayments, many vulnerable individuals faced harsh consequences, including stress and financial ruin. This highlights how automated systems can create burdens that hurt those who are already struggling.
The lessons from Robodebt emphasize the need for human oversight in automated decision-making. Governments should listen to feedback and warnings from those affected to prevent future failures.

Living in an Age of Well-Earned Distrust

187 implied HN points • 17 Jun 25

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Media Trust Democracy

We need to identify and challenge political myths that distort our understanding of government. Myths can lead to cynicism and distrust, making it harder to solve problems together.
Taking a moment to pause before reacting can help us respond more thoughtfully and rebuild trust in our institutions. A simple breath can change how we engage in discussions.
Rebuilding trust requires more than facts; we need to understand our institutions and work towards improving them. Civic participation and honest conversations matter more than ever.

How Reagan-Era Battles over Affirmative Action Fueled Unitary Executive Theory

96 implied HN points • 20 Jun 25

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Civil Rights Executive Power Political theory Conservative movement Legal history

The conservative push to change civil rights policies is a long-standing effort that has influenced how presidential power is viewed. This control allows presidents to shape administrative rules regarding diversity and inclusion.
In the past, disputes between administrations and civil rights agencies show the struggle over how those laws are interpreted. This includes efforts by past administrations to assert control over agencies like the EEOC and USCCR.
Recent administrations have built on these historical battles, aiming to enforce policies that challenge affirmative action and DEI initiatives. This reflects a broader conservative strategy to limit the role of civil rights agencies.

How to become a right-wing star? Harass people

275 implied HN points • 05 Jun 25

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Media influence Free speech Conservative movement Educational Policy

A Brown University student used a faulty AI to label staff negatively, which got him media attention and led to him testifying in Congress. His actions were controversial and seen as a form of harassment.
The news often frames stories based on who the protagonist is, which can influence public perception. In this case, the student was portrayed as a free speech advocate, while the impact on the staff was largely ignored.
The situation highlights a growing trend of targeting individuals in educational institutions for their beliefs, with severe implications for free speech and workplace harassment. It raises questions about how universities should respond to such tactics.

Last chance to weigh in on Trump's plan to politicize the civil service

227 implied HN points • 06 Jun 25

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political issues Civil Service Administration Public Opinion

Trump's plan could turn many career civil servants into political appointees, which might influence their work based on loyalty rather than merit. This could affect government effectiveness and accountability.
It's easy for the public to voice their opinions against this plan. Just a quick comment can make a big difference and it helps create a record of opposition.
Managing through fear, like threatening job loss for dissent, harms creativity and quality in government work. It's better to have open discussions and diverse viewpoints to improve services.

The origins of human-centered design

151 implied HN points • 11 Jun 25

🪑 Design User Experience Product Design Technology

Human-centered design started in the military during World War II. It focused on understanding how people interacted with equipment to prevent crashes and improve safety.
John Arnold formalized human-centered design processes in the 1950s, laying the groundwork for its use in technology and public services.
In recent years, human-centered design has gained attention in government to enhance services. It's about putting people's needs first to build trust and engagement.

The Politicization of Federal Hiring

163 implied HN points • 03 Jun 25

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Civil Service Policy Reform Partisan Politics

Recent changes to federal hiring rules may allow candidates to be hired based more on political loyalty than on their abilities or qualifications. This undermines the idea that government workers should be nonpartisan.
New essay questions for applicants emphasize candidates' alignment with the current administration's political agenda, which can discourage diversity of thought and lead to favoritism in hiring.
The push for hiring based on political views can destabilize the federal workforce, making it less qualified and more politicized, which could harm public services and governance.

DOGE Mismanagement Principles

569 implied HN points • 16 Feb 25

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Efficiency Policy Analysis Employee Rights

Firing key employees can hurt government functions. Specialists who handle vital tasks, like managing nuclear arsenals, should not be let go without careful thought.
Treating employees poorly leads to distrust and resentment. If workers feel insecure or undervalued, they won’t be motivated to return if hired back.
Cutting agencies that collect taxes can weaken government. Reducing the IRS staff, for example, may benefit wealthy individuals while harming the government's ability to function effectively.

Some basic math about cutting government

1377 implied HN points • 16 Nov 24

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Policy Analysis Public Sentiment

Cutting federal employees won't save as much money as some politicians claim. Even a big cut might only save a small portion of overall government spending.
There's a belief that the government has too many workers, but in fact, the current number of federal employees is low compared to the overall population and their skills are often outdated.
Many government programs are popular and provide valuable services. Cutting them could lead to public backlash, as people generally support these services even if they say they want smaller government.

Compelling Mass Civil Servant Resignations Will Create Chaos

660 implied HN points • 29 Jan 25

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government reform Public Service

Many federal employees are feeling uncertain about their jobs due to recent announcements, making them tempted to accept exit offers. These offers seem attractive after a lot of pressure from the government.
The exit offer is misleading because it promises benefits that might not fully materialize. Employees who take the offer may find themselves without job security or clear benefits.
Mass resignations of federal workers could harm important government services. Losing skilled employees impacts the ability to provide essential services to the public.

Who is included in Trump's America?

360 implied HN points • 23 Feb 25

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Disability Rights Government Policy Public Service Political Advocacy

Policies under Trump's administration are making it harder for people with disabilities to find jobs and gain opportunities. Many young people, like Vincent, are facing canceled internships and hiring freezes.
Cuts to funding and support programs for disabled individuals are threatening their education and healthcare. This is causing fear for many who rely on these services to succeed.
The exclusion of disabled individuals from public life affects everyone, as it limits diverse perspectives and contributions in society. It's important for us all to support inclusion and equal opportunities.

What Happens Next?

993 implied HN points • 07 Nov 24

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Trump administration Government Structure Political corruption Public Services Administrative state

If Trump returns to office, he will likely make major changes to how federal workers are treated, possibly firing many and reclassifying them as political appointees. This could create a government that is less experienced and more loyal to his administration.
Trump's second term may be more organized but still chaotic, with a focus on advancing his goals and possibly reducing regulatory oversight. However, this could lead to a decline in the quality of public services and less effective governance overall.
Corruption might become more common under Trump, with personal interests overlapping with government duties. This could result in conflicts of interest becoming normalized, making it harder to hold him and his administration accountable.

The Forced Fork and the Choice to Stay

396 implied HN points • 09 Feb 25

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Public Service Policy Changes

Federal employees are facing a tough choice between accepting a buyout or risking their jobs due to pressure and uncertainty. Many still choose to stay, showing their commitment to public service.
The idea of a buyout is seen as both a threat and an unfair strategy to weaken public service. The communication surrounding it feels insincere and creates an anxious workplace.
No matter the choice, whether to leave or stay, federal employees should feel proud of their service. It's important to focus on integrity and commitment, even in difficult conditions.

Meditations in an Emergency

375 implied HN points • 05 Feb 25

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Power Trump administration Public Policy

Elon Musk has gained significant control over important data and government operations, which raises serious concerns about privacy and security. It's crucial to ask who really benefits from this data control.
Musk's push to shut down agencies like USAID is not just about foreign aid; it's a power grab that could undermine democratic systems. Ignorance and conspiracy theories seem to drive his decision-making.
Public servants are standing up against illegal actions from the administration, and they need support from courts, media, and Congress to protect government integrity. These officials are crucial in maintaining checks on power.

Are laws just vibes now?

342 implied HN points • 10 Feb 25

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Executive Power Legislation Governance Legal issues Public Policy

Cuts to university health research funding can severely harm medical care and research. This might create gaps in funding that affect the quality of healthcare in the U.S.
There's a worrying trend where laws are being ignored or bypassed by the government. This makes it feel like the rule of law doesn't matter anymore, leading to uncertainty and distrust.
The debate over these legal issues often gets framed as a simple disagreement. However, many experts believe that clear violations of the law are happening, which should not be overlooked.

DOGE: Dangerous Oligarchs Grab Everything

433 implied HN points • 20 Jan 25

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Governance Public Policy Political Influence Democracy Corruption

There is growing concern that wealthy individuals are gaining too much power, which threatens democracy and fairness in society. People are worried about how this could affect basic rights and opportunities for everyone.
A group known as DOGE is seen as being run by billionaires who oppose government regulations while benefiting from government contracts. This raises questions about their accountability and the real intentions behind their actions.
DOGE aims to use social media to sway public opinion and cut government programs, relying on a powerful media presence. Many believe this could lead to unpopular decisions that are masked as necessary reforms, potentially undermining important social services.

Who is allowed to practice identity politics?

805 implied HN points • 10 Nov 24

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Identity politics Political strategy Election Analysis Media Critique

Kamala Harris did not campaign on identity politics, even though many critics claim she did. Her campaign focused more on economic issues and policies rather than solely on identity-related topics.
Donald Trump did use identity politics in his campaign by targeting specific groups negatively. He often painted immigrants and other marginalized groups as threats, which resonated with certain voter bases.
The media tends to label identity politics as only a left-wing issue, ignoring how right-wing politics also play on group identities, especially among white Christian nationalists.

You Should Be More Worried About Trump's Planned Military Purge

572 implied HN points • 11 Dec 24

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Military Policy Leadership Changes

There are worries about a potential military purge that could target senior officers based on their political beliefs rather than their qualifications. This could change the military into a more politically loyal organization.
The criteria for removing these officers includes actions like promoting diversity or participating in discussions about inclusivity, which raises concerns about fairness and the implications for military effectiveness.
This situation might lead to greater politicization of the military, where future leaders may prioritize loyalty to a president over professional merit, potentially harming the military's stability and effectiveness in the long run.

How Will Trump's Executive Orders Change Government?

375 implied HN points • 21 Jan 25

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Executive orders Governance Public Services

There's a new hiring freeze for federal workers, except for some critical positions. This might lead to fewer employees in public service and could impact areas like the IRS.
Trump's orders are bringing back a system that allows him to fire career employees and replace them with political appointees. This could change how government jobs are managed and create a more partisan public service.
Many staff will have to return to in-person work, which could make it harder for the government to attract and keep talented employees. Remote work has been shown to be productive, but there's a push to end those arrangements.

Military Purges and Complacent Judges

248 implied HN points • 22 Feb 25

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Judiciary Military Public Policy

The federal government is not too big; in fact, federal employment has declined over the years. Most government jobs support national security and public services that people rely on every day.
Recent actions by the Trump administration have created a toxic work environment for federal employees, leading to fears and insecurity about job stability. This drastic change may hurt the public service we depend on.
Judges need to pay more attention to the ongoing political changes and their impacts on federal jobs. They must act quickly to protect employees from unjust firings and make sure the legal system remains fair.

Jan. 6 and the path not taken

399 implied HN points • 06 Jan 25

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Democracy Leadership Political parties Elections Civil Rights

Republican leaders failed to act against Trump after the January 6 event, which allowed him to regain power and continue his influence. They prioritized their own political goals over protecting democracy.
Many Americans have moved from viewing the January 6 attack as a threat to democracy to seeing it as a sign of loyalty to Trump. This shift shows how quickly narratives can change in politics.
In contrast to other countries, where leaders who challenged democracy faced consequences, the U.S. is seeing Trump and his allies returning to power without accountability for their actions. This raises concerns about the future of American democracy.

The Weaponization of Trauma

224 implied HN points • 21 Feb 25

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Public Policy Workforce Issues Social justice

Public employees are facing serious emotional challenges due to job instability and harsh government changes. Many report feeling anxious, paranoid, and stressed.
There is a sense of betrayal among workers who relied on their institutions. When their commitment was questioned, it deeply hurt their trust and identity.
The actions of the administration are seen as intentionally creating trauma to control and diminish the morale of public workers, leading to fears about the future.

No, University Endowments Can’t Replace Federal Science Funding

205 implied HN points • 24 Feb 25

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Policy Higher education Research Funding Inequality

University endowments are not a single pool of money. They are made up of many funds that come with specific rules about how they can be used.
Only a few universities have very large endowments, while most institutions struggle financially. So, using these endowments to compensate for federal funding cuts wouldn’t work.
The idea of taxing large endowments might seem fair, but it could harm universities. It's important to use those funds for broader access and support for smaller schools instead.

What research tells us about politicization and state capacity

181 implied HN points • 19 Feb 25

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Civil Service State Capacity Policy Analysis

Politicization in government can lead to lower performance and higher corruption. When hiring focuses on political loyalty rather than skills, it results in less competent people in key roles.
State capacity, or the government's ability to perform effectively, can be weakened by politicization. This makes it harder for governments to achieve their policy goals and respond effectively to public needs.
Investing in state capacity takes time and is often not rewarded by voters. People tend to support immediate relief efforts rather than long-term improvements that strengthen government functions.

The Personalist Presidency

172 implied HN points • 18 Feb 25

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory Government Power Election Dynamics Political Behavior Civil Service

The 'personalist presidency' emphasizes loyalty to one leader more than established rules or policies. This means that appointments and governance often depend on who is loyal rather than who is most qualified.
Governance by fear is a new tactic that uses threats and conspiratorial messaging to intimidate public officials. This environment discourages dissent and makes it harder for them to do their jobs.
There is a trend toward weakening traditional civil service protections, allowing more political appointees and less experienced individuals to take on critical roles. This change can lead to instability and inefficiency in government.

Will the federal government become a toxic employer?

287 implied HN points • 02 Jan 25

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Federal Government Public Policy Workforce Issues Political Rhetoric Leadership

Musk and Ramaswamy make big promises about changing government, but many claims are misleading or unrealistic. They seem more interested in getting attention than actually fixing issues.
Their ideas about mass firings and relocations are not well thought out and could hurt the effectiveness of federal agencies. Making government a worse place to work might not lead to better performance.
Federal employees are encouraged to stay in their positions despite tough conditions. Their presence is important for maintaining effective governance and democracy.

Fake Jobs and Fake Facts

375 implied HN points • 25 Nov 24

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Legislation Political strategy Elections Public Policy

Musk's claim that some government jobs are 'fake' highlights a misunderstanding of how important certain roles are in addressing public issues, like climate change. Real government work often goes unnoticed and underappreciated.
The idea of restructuring government with big influence from private sector billionaires raises concerns about accountability and transparency. People worry that this could lead to a lack of proper checks and balances in government operations.
Musk's plans to reduce federal regulations and budgets might sound appealing, but the legal and practical realities show it would be much harder to achieve than claimed. Many regulations require processes that can't just be ignored or wiped away.

Has Switzerland Built the Best Public Transportation System in the World?

272 implied HN points • 18 Dec 24

🏝 Travel Transportation Infrastructure Tourism Public Policy Government

Switzerland has a top-notch public transportation system that is reliable and well-connected. You can easily hop on different trains and buses without hassle, making travel stress-free.
The Swiss transportation system is designed with the user in mind, lowering confusion and making it easy to know where to go next. You rarely need to worry about tickets because everything is convenient, like using one pass for all transport.
Overall, Switzerland’s approach to public transportation shows how good planning and organization can create an excellent travel experience. It reflects a commitment to making travel accessible to everyone, not just those who can afford cars.

Jimmy Carter as public manager

205 implied HN points • 30 Dec 24

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Reform Civil Service Presidential History

Jimmy Carter was the last U.S. President to pass significant civil service reforms, focusing on modernizing and protecting government workers from political interference. This shows how important it is to balance accountability and ethics in government.
Carter introduced the idea of Zero-Based Budgeting to the federal government, but it didn't work. This highlights the challenges of applying private sector methods in a political system that operates differently.
The principles set by Carter's reforms for federal employees emphasize fairness and merit, which are important for creating a trustworthy government. Striking the right balance between political influence and protection for government workers is still an ongoing debate.

Whats next for CX in government?

151 implied HN points • 27 Jan 25

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government reform Customer Experience Public Policy

The federal government is working on improving customer experience with public services. This is meant to help citizens feel respected and decrease frustration with processes.
Recent laws are pushing agencies to focus on better service delivery. Each agency will have to appoint someone to oversee these efforts, ensuring they prioritize public needs.
Four key themes emerged for better service: putting the public first, having dedicated customer experience teams, collaborating across departments, and simplifying processes to make them easier for everyone.

A Parade of Horribles

263 implied HN points • 13 Nov 24

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Analysis Election Strategy Domestic Policy

Trump's Cabinet picks have sparked concern. Some choices, like Marco Rubio for Secretary of State, seem okay, but many lack relevant experience.
Kristi Noem, picked for Homeland Security, has limited understanding of national security. Her past actions raise doubts about her judgment and qualifications.
Pete Hegseth, chosen as Secretary of Defense, is controversial due to his extremist views and previous military disqualification. His loyalty to Trump could shape military decisions in troubling ways.

Governing by Terror

178 implied HN points • 29 Oct 24

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Climate Government Institutions Media influence Trumpism

Intimidation has become common for public servants, affecting their ability to work effectively. This creates a scary work environment that can stop good governance.
The media sometimes amplifies unfounded attacks on officials, treating them as national scandals without factual evidence. This can lead to harassment and fear among these public workers.
The tactics used against public servants, like surveillance and creating lists of targets, are similar to those seen in universities. This shows a broader trend of attacking institutions and encouraging a culture of fear.

Making SNAP Interviews More Flexible Increases Take-up

96 implied HN points • 06 Dec 24

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Policy Social programs Public Administration

Making interviews for SNAP more flexible can help more people get the benefits they need. When applicants can choose when to interview, like calling in at their convenience, they are more likely to complete the process.
Reducing procedural denials is important because many people get turned away not due to ineligibility, but because they miss the required interview. By making interviews easier, agencies can save time and money while helping people access food assistance.
Flexible interviews have already shown success in cities like Los Angeles and Boulder, where approval rates increased and benefits were received faster. This shows that small changes in the process can significantly improve access to support for those in need.

Rationing Rights

127 implied HN points • 28 Oct 24

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Healthcare Disability Rights Policy Reform Social justice Government programs

Many people with disabilities and older adults face long waitlists for Medicaid home care services. These waitlists can last from a few years to over a hundred years, making it hard for them to get the help they need.
The eligibility process for these services is often very confusing. Many families feel overwhelmed and may not even apply because they think it’s unlikely they will receive assistance.
There are calls to make home and community-based services an entitlement. This means that anyone eligible should have the guaranteed right to get these services, making it easier for people with disabilities to live independently.

What a Second Trump Term Might Mean for Disability Policy

105 implied HN points • 03 Nov 24

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Health care Education Housing Social Policy

Project 2025 suggests changes that could make it harder for people with disabilities to get education and support. This may mean less help from federal programs that many rely on.
The housing situation for disabled individuals could get worse. The plan wants to remove protections against housing discrimination without offering new solutions.
Health care coverage for disabled people is at risk. Proposed changes could make it easier for insurance companies to deny coverage and make Medicaid harder to access.