Breaking the News

Breaking the News offers a mix of critical analysis on media coverage, political dynamics, and societal issues from a veteran reporter's perspective. It explores topics like COVID-19's effects, media ethics, political discourse, climate change, aviation safety, and Supreme Court controversies, providing insights into current events, technology, and the importance of continuing education and adaptability.

Media Critique Political Analysis COVID-19 Pandemic Climate Change Technology and Innovation Judicial System Aviation Safety Education and Learning Economic Trends

The hottest Substack posts of Breaking the News

And their main takeaways

Aviation Report: An Example of Honesty, and One of Deceit.

1346 implied HN points • 19 Jun 25
📰 News Aviation Writing Obituary Journalism Politics
  1. William Langewiesche was a well-respected figure in aviation and writing, known for his unique storytelling style. His work changed how many people view aviation and its complexities.
  2. He wrote a famous book called 'Stick and Rudder,' which is essential reading for pilots. His father's influence helped him become a skilled pilot from a young age.
  3. The FAA keeps public records of pilots, showing transparency about who has trained to fly. This information includes many famous personalities, highlighting the wide interest in aviation.

Gavin Newsom as the Adult in the Room.

2231 implied HN points • 12 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Leadership Public Speaking Political Communication Crisis Management Rhetoric
  1. High-stakes public speeches can show how leaders should communicate in times of uncertainty. They need to connect emotionally and intellectually with the audience.
  2. A successful speech often feels conversational, as if the speaker is talking directly to the audience rather than delivering a formal address. This can help make important points feel more relatable and urgent.
  3. Effective speeches are concise and free of unnecessary details. They focus on clear, simple language to convey the message directly.

Finding Lost Hills: An ‘Our Towns’ Report.

1051 implied HN points • 10 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Immigration Education Economics Community Sustainability
  1. Lost Hills is a small town in California's Central Valley that represents a mix of agriculture, immigration, and community challenges. It produces a significant amount of food but struggles with economic inequality.
  2. The town is seeing positive changes due to investments in community services, such as a pedestrian bridge and better housing options. Philanthropic efforts are helping to improve education and overall quality of life for residents.
  3. Local schools focus on building trust with families and adapting to their needs, providing a range of support services. This helps create a sense of community and fosters success for students from diverse backgrounds.

What to Learn From China.

1051 implied HN points • 08 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics China relations Education & Policy Industrial Policy Immigration
  1. China's history shows how important international students are for higher education. The U.S. benefits greatly from the brilliant students who come from China and other countries.
  2. Long-term planning in industrial policy can lead to success. China effectively uses consistent strategies to boost its economy, while chaotic policies in the U.S. might not work as well.
  3. Understanding China's past troubles helps provide context for current issues. The Cultural Revolution was a dark time, and it's important to learn about such events to avoid repeating mistakes.

Kristi Noem vs. Harvard: What Their Language Reveals.

2616 implied HN points • 26 May 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Discourse Government Policy Judiciary Higher education Freedom of Speech
  1. Kristi Noem sent a harsh letter to Harvard, canceling its international student visas and making extreme demands. This showed a rude and controlling attitude.
  2. Harvard responded with a detailed legal complaint that emphasized its rights and academic independence. Their defense highlighted that the government's actions were unfair and retaliatory.
  3. A judge quickly ruled in favor of Harvard, granting a temporary order to protect the university from Noem's demands. This showed the importance of following lawful processes in governance.
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Another Bad Day for Aviation.

4655 implied HN points • 01 Feb 25
📰 News Aviation Public Safety Human Interest Government
  1. A recent plane crash in Philadelphia highlights the quick response and professionalism of air traffic controllers during emergencies. They had to manage a situation as they realized the plane had not reported back after takeoff.
  2. Despite criticism and abuse from some public figures, many public servants work hard behind the scenes to keep everyone safe. It's important to recognize their dedication, especially in high-pressure situations like aviation accidents.
  3. The incident raises questions about air traffic management and safety in busy airspace, showing that there are many factors at play in aviation incidents beyond the immediate events of a crash.

The Worst Part of a Terrible Speech.

5091 implied HN points • 21 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Speeches Political Rhetoric Public Opinion Political Commentary
  1. Long speeches don't always mean good speeches. The recent inauguration speech was lengthy but poorly delivered and uninspiring.
  2. Some parts of the speech were particularly ridiculous, like suggesting the Gulf of Mexico be renamed and complaining about Panama without understanding the history.
  3. Moving forward, it's important to focus on positive local experiences and civic engagement instead of getting stuck in national distractions.

It Had Been 16 Years Since a Fatal US Airlines Crash.

3963 implied HN points • 30 Jan 25
📰 News Aviation Accidents Safety Regulation Transportation
  1. There was a tragic collision between a regional jet and a military helicopter over the Potomac River, marking the first fatal airline crash in the U.S. in 16 years.
  2. The area around major airports is tightly controlled, but something went wrong this time that allowed the two aircraft to come into conflict.
  3. Changes to aviation safety regulations, like disbanding key advisory groups, could have long-term effects on air travel safety in the future.

‘This is Serious Business. You Better Start Paying Attention.’

2090 implied HN points • 07 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Policies Aviation Regulations Public Safety
  1. The recent aviation disasters are not linked to the current administration, but future incidents may be due to their policies. It's important to pay attention to how these changes affect safety.
  2. The discussions around the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) are concerning. Quick changes to air safety measures could lead to serious accidents.
  3. A podcast diving deep into an aviation accident reveals crucial insights about helicopter routes and landing complexities, emphasizing the serious nature of air travel and safety.

What the Right Kind of Nationalism Sounds Like.

2206 implied HN points • 02 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Leadership Nationalism Trade policy International relations
  1. Leadership requires addressing national interests clearly and passionately. Trudeau spoke strongly about the importance of Canada and the negative effects of trade wars.
  2. Effective communication is about explaining complex issues without being rude. Trudeau made sure his American audience understood the consequences of tariffs without sounding threatening.
  3. National pride can be expressed in a respectful way. Trudeau delivered a firm message about Canada’s values and partnerships while emphasizing that the country would stand up for itself.

After the Election: Swimming in the Sea of Disinformation.

4861 implied HN points • 16 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Disinformation Election Impact Public Opinion Political Discourse
  1. Disinformation is a huge problem today, affecting how people see reality. Many people get their news from social media rather than traditional sources, and this can lead to misunderstandings.
  2. Writers at a recent event discussed how losing touch with reality can harm society. They emphasized the importance of language and honest communication to keep a shared understanding.
  3. Personal stories can powerfully impact people's views. Sharing real-life experiences shows the consequences of political choices and helps others connect emotionally.

What Do We Know Now, About the Airline Crash in DC?

2052 implied HN points • 30 Jan 25
📰 News Current Events Accidents Transportation Politics
  1. A regional jet and a military helicopter collided near DC National airport, raising many questions about what went wrong during the incident.
  2. Air traffic controllers attempted to manage the situation but communication with the helicopter crew will be scrutinized to see if there were errors in judgment.
  3. Helicopter pilots are expected to fly below 200 feet in that area, but it’s unclear if they adhered to this rule, which could have played a role in the crash.

Obeying in Advance: The Christopher Wray Story.

2924 implied HN points • 11 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Elections FBI Trump Leadership
  1. Postponing a tough decision can sometimes make a big difference. By stepping down, Wray made it easier for Trump to gain control over the FBI instead of challenging him.
  2. It's important not to give power away without being asked. Wray's decision shows how we can unintentionally teach those in power what they can get away with.
  3. Defending our institutions is crucial. When people like Wray leave when facing difficulties, it hurts the institutions that are meant to protect us.

The Speech Joe Biden Is Likely to be Remembered For.

1731 implied HN points • 16 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Speeches Presidency Elections Political Analysis History
  1. Joe Biden's farewell speech took an unexpected turn, shifting from a typical review of his presidency to a serious warning about the growing concentration of power in America.
  2. He described a dangerous 'oligarchy' emerging from extreme wealth and power that threatens democracy and people's rights.
  3. Biden drew parallels between his concerns and Eisenhower's warnings about the military-industrial complex, emphasizing issues like misinformation and the decline of the free press.

Panama Is Back in the News. That Can Be a Good Thing.

1834 implied HN points • 29 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Rhetoric International relations Election Influence Public Opinion
  1. Recent talks about the Panama Canal mainly reflect Trump's style of making people feel angry and upset, rather than being based on real issues happening in Panama.
  2. The U.S. cannot 'take back' the canal as it would lead to disaster, just like previous military actions have shown us; it's all about making noise rather than real solutions.
  3. Panama's worth mentioning not just for the Canal, but for its vital water resources and biodiversity, which are important to protecting for future sustainability.

From ‘Defund the Police’ to ‘Defund Air Traffic Control.’

923 implied HN points • 18 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Policy Safety Regulation Aviation
  1. The recent crash-landing of a commuter jet in Toronto didn't directly result from any recent layoffs, but future safety may be at risk due to those layoffs.
  2. Air traffic controllers and other safety professionals provide crucial oversight for safe flying. Reducing their numbers can lead to overlooked issues and potential disasters.
  3. Understanding the importance of air safety is vital. Cuts to safety teams, like those happening now, can endanger everyone who flies.

Jimmy Carter, President and Citizen.

1603 implied HN points • 31 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political History Leadership Elections Foreign Policy Public Opinion
  1. Jimmy Carter was very skilled at connecting with people from all walks of life. His ability to communicate and listen helped him build strong relationships during his presidency.
  2. Carter's foreign policy achievements are often seen in a better light than they originally appeared. He made significant contributions, even if they weren't always recognized at the time.
  3. The importance of storytelling in politics is crucial. Like Jimmy Carter, sharing our experiences and truths helps unite people and address common concerns for a better future.

The Night Watch.

1988 implied HN points • 03 Dec 24
🏥 Health & Wellness Mental health Chronic Conditions Health Education Personal Experience
  1. Some people prefer to keep their experiences private, while others are more open about what they're going through. Everyone has different comfort levels when it comes to sharing personal experiences.
  2. Dealing with the aftereffects of COVID-19 can be tough, especially when it comes to sleep issues. It's important to learn from each other's experiences to navigate these challenges.
  3. There are many strategies for improving sleep, and trying different methods might help. Everyone's journey to better sleep can be different, so sharing what works can be really helpful.

Election Countdown: The Day After.

2347 implied HN points • 06 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Campaigns Voter Behavior Political Analysis Government
  1. Voters had several years to see Donald Trump's actions and behavior clearly, and they still chose him again. This shows a significant change in how the public views him compared to past elections.
  2. Kamala Harris ran a strong campaign with few mistakes, while Trump had a rocky one. Despite this, the election outcome favored Trump, which highlights a surprising shift in voter priorities.
  3. Two experts who believed Americans would make a rational choice were proven wrong. This suggests that the election results reflect a deeper understanding of current American values and beliefs.

‘The Bond of our Common Humanity...’

1244 implied HN points • 01 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Debate Civic engagement Democracy Public Policy
  1. Jimmy Carter believed that unity and compassion among people can overcome fear and prejudice. It's important to focus on our shared humanity.
  2. Carter's grandson shared that the current political system has flaws that lead to division and extremism. He emphasized the need for civil discourse and understanding.
  3. Stories have power, and sharing personal experiences can bridge divides. We should connect over our common goals of peace and stability, no matter our political differences.

Does Politics Turn on a Message? Or a Messenger?

1013 implied HN points • 11 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Presidency Elections Policy Political History Political Analysis
  1. Jimmy Carter once seemed fresh and vibrant to voters, but many today only see him as an elder statesman. It's a reminder of his early energy when he first became president.
  2. There are challenges for the Democrats in expanding their base and rethinking their policies. Ideas are already being discussed to help working-class people and strengthen the party.
  3. An important point is that mere policy might not be enough for the Democrats. They may need to consider a broader approach to connect with voters effectively.

What Is To Be Done? Chronicling Our Future, as It Is Being Built.

1564 implied HN points • 23 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Civic engagement Media Landscape Election Analysis Democratic Values Policy Changes
  1. People are actively thinking and organizing for a better America after the recent election. They are focused on community-driven efforts and finding ways to reconnect with each other.
  2. A lot of initiatives are happening at the state and local levels, rather than just in Washington, D.C. It's these grassroots movements that often lead to real change.
  3. Learning from history is key. Past movements show that big changes come from the bottom up, and citizens working together can create a positive shift in the national mood.

Election Countdown, One More Day and a Wake-Up: Now It's Up to Us.

1654 implied HN points • 04 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Political parties Voting Rights Political Campaigns Political media
  1. Donald Trump is expected to claim victory no matter the outcome of the election, potentially creating confusion and controversy. The media needs to be ready to respond to these claims.
  2. There are concerning signs about Trump's mental state, which could greatly impact his actions and decisions if he were to regain power. Observers worry about his erratic behavior and how it may affect his campaign.
  3. Regardless of the election results, there will be important conversations about how media covers political events and the narratives that emerge from this election cycle.

‘Looking Forward’: A Brief Film for Our Times.

1141 implied HN points • 13 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Film Art Media Documentary Creativity
  1. The film 'Looking Forward' combines AI and real-world footage to highlight the contradictions of our time. It's a unique mix that encourages viewers to think deeply about today's world.
  2. It has a hopeful message about how we face challenges, showing that optimism and pessimism can exist together. This balance is important for understanding our current situation.
  3. The film is not just informative but also visually impressive, making it enjoyable to watch. It features interesting moments that capture the audience's attention.

Election Countdown, 11 Days to Go: Reasons to be Brave.

1500 implied HN points • 26 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Civic engagement Political Commentary Media influence Voting Rights
  1. People should be brave and confident in their beliefs, especially during political campaigns. It's important to face challenges with determination and pride.
  2. Leadership and hope are powerful motivators for citizens. Most Americans want to strive for a better future together rather than succumb to negativity.
  3. Collaboration across political lines is essential. It’s crucial to focus on unity and the things we stand for, rather than getting lost in division and despair.

Election Countdown, Six Days to Go: Simple Questions About What’s Ahead.

1398 implied HN points • 31 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Political Rhetoric Campaign strategies Voter Behavior Judicial system
  1. Polls may not accurately capture voter excitement, especially among women, which might lead to surprising results in the election.
  2. There are concerns that Trump isn't trying to win new voters and is instead focused on maintaining his base and planning for post-election strategies.
  3. The rhetoric used by Trump and some rallies can be alarmingly similar to dangerous historical rhetoric, raising concerns about the direction of political discourse.

Election Countdown, 17 Days to Go: Ground Truths That Matter.

1295 implied HN points • 20 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Media Political Analysis Political Figures Public Opinion
  1. JD Vance is becoming an important political figure, backed by powerful individuals like Peter Thiel and Elon Musk. Many believe he could take on a bigger role if Trump isn't able to continue in politics.
  2. Fox News is showing more of its true colors as a platform for opinion, rather than unbiased news. Recent interactions, especially with Kamala Harris, highlight their tendency to present misleading narratives.
  3. Sometimes, less experienced questioners can do a better job than seasoned pros. They might ask more straightforward and relevant questions, leading to clearer discussions.

Election Countdown, 20 Days to Go: Eyes Wide Open as We Near the End.

1115 implied HN points • 16 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Voting Economy Scandals Party Dynamics
  1. The economy is doing really well, which usually benefits the party in power. Strong economies often lead to successful elections for the candidates of the ruling party.
  2. There aren’t any major scandals surrounding the Democrats, unlike the troubles facing Trump. This gives the Democrats a cleaner slate going into the election.
  3. Despite positive factors for Democrats, polls show the election is still close. This leaves uncertainty about the outcome, as historical trends may not predict this race accurately.

What Is To Be Done? Investing Where It Matters.

654 implied HN points • 11 Dec 24
💼 Business Investing Economics Innovation Manufacturing Market Trends
  1. Investing in advanced technology manufacturing is gaining momentum in the US. This is a positive sign for the economy, showing growth and innovation.
  2. It's important to focus on what truly matters when making investments. This could mean supporting industries or ideas that have the potential to make a significant impact.
  3. Documenting progress and sharing stories of innovation can inspire others to get involved and contribute to meaningful change. It helps to keep the momentum going.

‘You Know Nothing of My Work…’

987 implied HN points • 25 Jan 24
📚 Literature Philosopher Essay Writer Concept Book
  1. William James was a polymath known for influential works like 'Varieties of Religious Experience'.
  2. Jacques Barzun's book 'A Stroll With William James' discusses President Carter's use of James's ideas.
  3. Carter's usage of 'Moral Equivalent of War' in a speech aimed to advocate for non-violent solutions.

‘I Would Prefer Not To’...

1603 implied HN points • 29 Jul 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Social media Economy Media Coverage Supreme Court
  1. James Fallows prefers not to sign up with Threads due to reasons like ownership concerns, user interface preferences, and lack of critical mass in comparison to other platforms.
  2. James Fallows prefers not to write further about the 'Lab Leak', citing coverage by David Quammen in the New York Times Magazine on Covid's origin mysteries and the importance of the origin question.
  3. James Fallows prefers not to write about where the economy is headed or media coverage related to the economy at this time.

Election Countdown, 270 Days to Go: The Elderly Man in the White House.

872 implied HN points • 10 Feb 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Election President Age Media Campaign
  1. Biden's age is a complex topic, with some seeing him as a 'superager' like Oliver Wendell Holmes and John Paul Stevens.
  2. Biden's experience might make him more capable of making sound judgment calls compared to younger presidents.
  3. Biden's stutter affects his speech but not his intelligence, showcasing his resilience in navigating his condition.

Election Countdown, 271 Days to Go: ‘Can't Anybody Here Play This Game?’

743 implied HN points • 09 Feb 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Dysfunction Courts Legislation Impeachment
  1. The Trump-era Republicans are facing a decline in basic operating competency.
  2. In court, there was a contrast between intelligent defense of Trump and clownish claims of absolute immunity.
  3. GOP's actions indicate a lack of care for democracy's principles and a focus on tribalism, causing political disagreements to be harder to resolve.

The ‘Cultural’ Questions that Follow the Alaska Airlines Blowout.

795 implied HN points • 09 Jan 24
📰 News Aviation Safety Investigation
  1. The incident with Alaska Airlines did not likely contribute to the recent string of aviation close calls, but it could reveal systemic issues.
  2. The plane experienced a panel blowout at 16,000 feet, with no passengers seated next to the gaping hole, showcasing the clean structural break.
  3. In a scenario like this, with a hole in the airplane at high speed and altitude, it would be both terrifying and extremely dangerous.

Election Countdown, 254 Days to Go: A Step Away from the ‘No Labels’ Brink.

615 implied HN points • 25 Feb 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Election Third-Party Impeachment Culture Wars
  1. Third-party campaigns often serve as spoilers in US presidential politics, increasing the risk of splitting votes.
  2. The idea of an 'open convention' to replace Joe Biden as a candidate faces significant challenges, like lack of clarity on alternative candidates and financial complications.
  3. A GOP impeachment bid against Joe Biden was derailed after a star witness was arrested for inventing stories about the Biden family on behalf of Russian state intelligence.

Election Countdown, 240 Days to Go: The General Election Campaign Has Begun.

564 implied HN points • 11 Mar 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Election Foreign Policy Policy Analysis
  1. The speech by Joe Biden at the State of the Union address effectively shifted audience focus and message from previous years.
  2. The speech avoided the typical laundry-list approach, presenting a more cohesive thematic structure to deliver key points.
  3. Biden's speech reflected a strong stance against Putin and Trump, aiming to motivate and connect with his own base rather than attempting to win over Trump's supporters.

Election Countdown, 262 Days to Go: Do ‘Turning Points’ Exist Any More?

602 implied HN points • 17 Feb 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Campaigns Political Figures Legal issues Public Opinion
  1. Damaging news does not necessarily decrease support for politicians like Donald Trump, and good news doesn't always increase support for politicians like Joe Biden.
  2. Events like the death of Alexei Navalny or legal judgments against Trump have the potential to be pivotal moments, but whether they truly become turning points remains uncertain.
  3. The argument that President Biden is too old is being questioned and examined for its relevance and accuracy.