Political Currents by Ross Barkan

Political Currents by Ross Barkan features original essays on political, social, and cultural topics, with a focus on media dynamics, the nuances of American culture, the complexities of the media industry, critiques on contemporary art and literature, and observations on political movements and societal shifts.

American Culture Media Industry Political Movements Societal Shifts Art and Literature Technology and Innovation Local and National Politics Cultural Critique

The hottest Substack posts of Political Currents by Ross Barkan

And their main takeaways

Andrew Cuomo Is Not Inevitable

22 implied HN points • 03 Mar 25

Andrew Cuomo is running for mayor of New York City after resigning as governor. His past actions during the pandemic and political career are likely to come under scrutiny.
Cuomo has a strong base and some successes in his past, but he needs to adapt to a more competitive primary environment. This campaign is different from his previous ones where he had all the power.
Political dynamics are shifting, and while Cuomo was once seen as unassailable, he now faces significant challenges from both opponents and voter sentiment, especially regarding his past controversies.

The Rise of the New Romanticism

72 implied HN points • 20 Feb 25

🎭️ Culture Art Literature Film Music Society

Movies and music are changing, with superhero films and major pop stars like Taylor Swift losing their dominant cultural grip. People are starting to seek new forms of art and storytelling that resonate more deeply with their lives.
There's a growing frustration with technology, especially AI, as people question its real benefits and whether it genuinely improves our lives. Many are yearning for more human connection and less tech dependence.
A new cultural movement, reminiscent of Romanticism, is emerging. People are valuing authenticity and reality over the superficial aspects of digital life, seeking to create meaningful experiences and engagements in the physical world.

Who Is Going to be the Next Mayor of New York?

11 implied HN points • 26 Feb 25

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Candidates Polling Governance Political trends

Mayor Eric Adams is likely to lose the re-election in 2026 due to low approval ratings and issues of corruption in his administration.
There are currently five main Democratic candidates who might run to replace him, with some emerging women candidates as potential long-shots.
Former Governor Andrew Cuomo is showing interest in running again and seems to be leading in the polls, making the race more competitive.

Common Sense and Sensibility

30 implied HN points • 14 Feb 25

📚 Literature Literary Criticism Publishing Cultural Commentary Creative Writing

A new magazine called 'The Metropolitan Review' has launched, focusing on diverse voices and unique perspectives in literature and criticism.
The goal is to embrace individual writers' styles without enforcing a strict house style, allowing for more creative freedom and expression.
The rise of platforms like Substack shows that there’s a growing wave of fresh, independent writing that can challenge traditional media and engage readers.

My Father and the Trumps

36 implied HN points • 07 Feb 25

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political History Elections Political Figures Party Dynamics Legislation

Donald Trump mentioned a politician named Sy Halpern, who impacted his father's early career. It's interesting to see how past connections can shape present political figures.
Halpern was part of a different kind of Republican party that focused on bipartisanship and social issues like civil rights. This shows how political identities can change over time.
Donald Trump represents a link to a bygone era in New York City, where local politics involved personal connections and community-focused leaders. It's a reminder of how history shapes current events.

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

How Do We Understand Culture?

65 implied HN points • 28 Jan 25

🎭️ Culture Cultural criticism Political Discourse Social movements Cultural History Contemporary Issues

There is a shift in how political resistance works, moving from large protests to quieter, more organized actions. Many feel that the energy and fervor of past movements are not as strong anymore.
Critics argue that cultural writing needs solid evidence to make its points, but understanding culture can be subjective and may not always rely on hard data. Feelings and personal experiences can be valid, even if they aren't quantifiable.
The political landscape is always changing, and understanding today's culture requires looking at the current situation rather than relying on the past. It's important to ask questions about what is happening now instead of just referring to old patterns.

Do You Need A.I.?

29 implied HN points • 05 Feb 25

🕹 Technology Artificial Intelligence Innovation Digital Media Ethics Writing

Many people want AI for its potential benefits, but it's not clear if we really need it. Some believe it's being pushed too hard by those who stand to profit.
AI has the potential to help in areas like medicine, but there's skepticism about its overall impact on creativity and art. It's hard to see what new art or literature AI has created that we couldn't do ourselves.
Technology like typewriters or the internet filled real needs, while AI seems more like something we want rather than need. Its successes are still uncertain, leading to concerns about its role in society.

Eric Adams Doomed Himself

17 implied HN points • 11 Feb 25

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Governance Corruption Political parties Public Opinion

Eric Adams avoided corruption charges after the Trump administration dropped them, but this does not improve his popularity. Many people in New York still do not like him.
Adams' political future is uncertain, with slim chances of winning the next Democratic primary. He has to think about other options if he wants to stay in politics.
Despite this drop in charges, Adams may still struggle since his reputation is damaged and he's unlikely to get support from major parties or donors.

Twilight of the Liberal Left

283 implied HN points • 09 Nov 24

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political parties Elections Government Public Policy Political Ideologies

The Obama coalition has weakened, especially among younger voters who are shifting towards the right. This change highlights a disconnect between the past Democratic leadership and current political priorities.
The liberal-left is facing challenges as there's a lack of strong grassroots movements and engagement in social causes, leading to a sense of resignation. Activism seems to have quieted down with fewer protests and movements visible today.
There is an opportunity for new Democratic leaders to emerge since the old guard is faltering. The upcoming elections may open doors for fresh candidates, reflecting a need for change in approach and strategy.

The Anointed

36 implied HN points • 24 Jan 25

🎭️ Culture Literature Media Society Art Performance

Having someone recognize your talent can feel important, but real success often comes from hard work and persistence. It’s not just about getting that big break; it’s about consistently putting in the effort.
The media landscape is constantly changing, and many traditional outlets are struggling to survive. It's tough for writers today to find their place in an environment where less funding and fewer opportunities exist.
Today, being 'anointed' or becoming famous in the cultural scene is not as common as it once was. Many traditional routes to success have shifted, and while there are famous figures, the pool of new stars has narrowed significantly.

What's Next?

42 implied HN points • 20 Jan 25

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political trends Social movements Civic engagement Political parties Cultural Shifts

America is experiencing a cooling period after years of intense political activity. People are starting to reflect and think for themselves more than follow the loudest voices in politics.
There's a growing shift in American culture away from traditional institutions. Many people now seek personal improvement and alternative interests instead of blindly following leaders or celebrities.
The future of American politics is uncertain. While there’s still engagement and activism, there is also a trend where people may want to 'drop out' from typical political battles and focus on their personal lives and beliefs.

Reckoning with the Biden Lie

47 implied HN points • 03 Jan 25

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Analysis Election Commentary Media Critique Presidential History

Many people ignored signs that Biden might not be fit to serve long-term, but now they are facing the truth about his capabilities. There was a illusion among politicians and media about Biden's readiness that is being dismantled.
Despite some issues, Biden achieved significant policy successes, especially in areas like green energy and healthcare. His administration made important moves against corporate power and economic recovery.
As Biden's presidency ends, he may not have the chance to improve his public image like other past presidents. His time in office will likely be overshadowed by his age and the stark contrast with Donald Trump's influence.

How the New York Post Wins

36 implied HN points • 09 Jan 25

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Media influence Political strategy Newspapers Public Opinion Elections

The New York Post is a powerful newspaper in New York City, despite its conservative stance that differs from many city residents. It connects with a variety of readers by addressing local anxieties about crime, homelessness, and political issues.
The Post's influence extends beyond its own stories, as local TV and radio often follow its lead. Politicians, like the previous mayor, learned that the Post can be a strong ally or a harsh critic, affecting their public image.
With other local media declining, the New York Post stands out for its coverage of city events. While it's essential to read it with a critical eye, many find it necessary for understanding the pulse of the city.

The New Status Anxiety

82 implied HN points • 30 Nov 24

🎭️ Culture Writing Media Journalism Literature Technology

Substack is changing the way writers connect with their audience. Unlike traditional blogs, it allows writers to publish directly and even earn money.
There's a growing tension between classic media and Substack writers. Established journalists are feeling insecure as newer writers find success without the usual media gatekeeping.
The stigma around self-publishing is fading. Many Substack writers now gain more respect and income than bloggers did in the past, marking a shift in how we view independent writing.

Is Eric Adams Free?

12 implied HN points • 31 Jan 25

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Corruption Political strategy Campaigns Governance

Eric Adams, the mayor of New York City, has faced federal corruption charges and is struggling with low approval ratings. Many believe he might be the first mayor in thirty years to lose a re-election bid.
Donald Trump might help Adams by influencing the Justice Department to drop the corruption charges. This could allow Adams to run again in the Democratic primary without the burden of legal troubles.
Andrew Cuomo, the former governor, could be a tough challenger for Adams if he decides to run for mayor. Adams' chances might improve if he avoids criminal charges and gains more support from voters.

Pity the Short Story Writer

54 implied HN points • 15 Dec 24

📚 Literature Fiction Publishing Writing Short Stories Literary Criticism

Getting published as a writer can be really tough. Many writers spend a lot of time submitting stories and getting rejections before they find success.
The traditional path to publishing, like getting into the New Yorker, is harder now. Writers may need to build their own audience through platforms like blogs or Substack instead.
Self-publishing is becoming more accepted now, and many talented writers are finding ways to share their work without relying on big publishers.

Bet on YouTube

46 implied HN points • 21 Dec 24

🕹 Technology Social media Streaming Content creation Digital innovation Tech Companies

YouTube is growing and could become the main streaming service, taking over traditional TV as more people cut their cable. It’s very popular and has a huge library of music and videos.
While many tech innovations are disappointing, YouTube stands out as a great platform for finding unique content like deep cuts in music and various genres of videos.
Even though big companies like Google and Meta seem powerful, there’s a lot of creativity and energy in smaller communities on YouTube that could change things in the future.

The Outer Borough Mind

89 implied HN points • 16 Nov 24

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Political Behavior Political culture Political History Public Opinion

Donald Trump embodies the outer borough mindset, which contrasts with the Manhattan elite. Many people from Brooklyn, Queens, and the Bronx feel a sense of envy and resentment toward Manhattan.
Trump's desire to break into Manhattan comes from his upbringing in a wealthy, but somewhat isolated, neighborhood. He sees Manhattan as a place of power that he can never fully belong to.
The outer borough communities are changing politically, with many people feeling abandoned by traditional parties. Trump's message resonates with them, as they see him as a reflection of their struggles and ambitions.

Will the Joker Emerge?

54 implied HN points • 10 Dec 24

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Healthcare Violence Public Opinion Political Discourse

There is a growing anger in America towards the healthcare system that many feel fails them, and this anger can sometimes lead to dark admiration for violent actions against those seen as part of the problem.
People across the political spectrum are finding common ground in their discontent, highlighting a significant rift between ordinary citizens and established institutions, including politicians and the media.
As society changes, traditional forms of celebrity and loyalty are diminishing. New figures may emerge who attract attention, but they could challenge the status quo in unexpected ways.

How to Write a Novel

31 implied HN points • 24 Dec 24

📚 Literature Writing Tips Self-Publishing Novel writing

Writing a novel doesn't require a detailed outline. It's more about moving from scene to scene and discovering the story as you go.
Keep writing even if you're unsure about the plot or ending. It's important to finish the work and worry about the details later.
You should write for yourself and not focus on markets or trends. A novel is an expression of your creativity, and it should feel meaningful to you.

The Rotor

21 implied HN points • 06 Jan 25

📚 Literature Writing Publishing Creativity Personal essays Art

Writing can be a source of freedom. Unlike sports, where failure can weigh you down, writing allows for exploration without fear of public judgment.
Persistence is key to success in writing. It’s important to keep trying, even when faced with rejection, and to keep showing up to do the work.
Minimize distractions to enhance your writing experience. Put away technology when you need to focus, and embrace the urge to write whenever it strikes.

The Billionaire in Charge of the Cops

24 implied HN points • 30 Dec 24

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Leadership Law enforcement Government Policy Public Administration Political Scandals

Jessica Tisch is the new NYPD commissioner and is unlike any previous commissioner because she has no traditional law enforcement background and is a Harvard graduate. This is a big change in how the police department is led.
Tisch has significant power because she comes from a wealthy family and does not rely on political support from Mayor Adams, who is in a shaky position. Her wealth means she can act independently and is not easily challenged.
There are many questions about Tisch's vision for policing in New York. While she has the freedom to make changes, her approach to law enforcement and her future ambitions remain unclear.

Trust the Critic?

36 implied HN points • 04 Dec 24

📚 Literature Book Reviews Criticism Publishing Fiction Cultural Commentary

There is less honest criticism of books because many critics are now freelancers and also writers. This makes them less likely to be negative about new books that could affect their own careers.
Critics used to challenge well-known authors more freely and offer varied opinions, but now they often just give praise without saying what's really bad about a book. This makes it hard for readers to know which novels are really worth their time.
New platforms like Substack are giving space to honest voices in criticism. This shift could bring back more genuine discussions about literature instead of the bland, safe reviews we often see now.

Cuomo Come

11 implied HN points • 15 Jan 25

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Candidates Political parties Public Opinion Corruption

Eric Adams, the current mayor of New York City, is facing serious legal troubles and might not have a future in politics. The situation looks bad for him with upcoming trials and loss of support.
Andrew Cuomo, the former governor, is likely running for mayor and is currently seen as the frontrunner in the race. His reputation is controversial, but he may benefit from a lack of strong opponents.
The Democratic primary for the mayoral race seems weak with no big names besides Cuomo and Adams. This could make it easier for Cuomo to gain solid footing in the election.

AOC Agonistes

46 implied HN points • 11 Nov 24

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Political strategy Political Leadership Voting behavior Progressive politics

AOC has been campaigning actively for the Democratic Party, showing her commitment to supporting candidates like Kamala Harris. Her efforts have drawn attention but have not significantly swayed voter behavior in key demographics.
Ocasio-Cortez seems to have shifted from her earlier revolutionary stance to fitting more comfortably within the Democratic establishment. This transition raises questions about her future role and influence on the left.
There is a growing disconnect between AOC and younger voters who may not align with her political style. If she doesn't reach out to different audiences, she might struggle to maintain her relevance in the future.

The New York Century

22 implied HN points • 18 Dec 24

📚 Literature Fiction Writing Book launch Book Reviews

The book _Glass Century_ is set to come out on May 6, 2025, and it tells a story about love and family from the 1970s to the pandemic.
Pre-ordering the book is really important because it helps determine how many copies stores will order and how much attention the book gets.
The author is planning book launch events and is open to traveling for readings in different cities if there’s interest.

Blame Biden

47 implied HN points • 06 Nov 24

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Candidates Democrats Republicans Campaigns

The 2022 midterms gave Democrats a false sense of confidence that led them to misjudge their chances in the 2024 presidential race.
Joe Biden's decision to run for a second term caused issues for the party, as it didn't allow for a healthy primary process to find a stronger candidate.
Democrats need to reassess their approach to elections, as the current strategy isn't working, especially with Trump's return looming on the horizon.

The End of Taylor and Travis

30 implied HN points • 24 Nov 24

🎭️ Culture Celebrity Media Music Sports Pop culture

Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce had a moment of peak fame in 2023, but such cultural dominance is unlikely to happen again. Their relationship and careers may continue, but the heights they reached are rare.
Despite their fame, the Kelce brothers' podcast is struggling to get views compared to other popular creators like Theo Von and Joe Rogan. This shows that just being famous doesn't guarantee ongoing interest.
Travis Kelce may never reach the same level of stardom as icons like The Rock due to changes in media and culture. Swift's future may also not shine as brightly as her past.

My 2024 in Reading

12 implied HN points • 31 Dec 24

📚 Literature Books Fiction Nonfiction Writing Reading

This year, the person read 58 books, mostly fiction, and found new favorite authors and stories. They believe fiction is important for understanding our world.
They're excited to launch a new book review magazine to support new writers and literary culture. They think there’s a revival happening in how people engage with books.
The person is releasing a new novel titled 'Glass Century' in May 2025. They're also looking forward to touring and sharing their experiences with readers in different cities.

Too Big for Fascism

37 implied HN points • 29 Oct 24

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Political parties Governance Federalism Political Ideologies

The presidential election is very close, and either candidate could win. Both parties shouldn't be too confident, as polls show a tight race in key states.
The idea that Trump represents fascism is debated, but the US's complex system of federalism makes it harder for any one leader to impose such control. The many local and state governments act as a barrier.
Historically, America's institutions have proven resilient, and they are unlikely to be easily dismantled. Even if Trump were to win, significant changes to democracy or governance wouldn't happen overnight.

The Chaos President

20 implied HN points • 27 Nov 24

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Policy War Diplomacy Governance

The war in Ukraine is very complex and similar to World War I, with no clear paths to victory for either side. Ending the conflict may require tough negotiations between both countries.
The current U.S. administration seems careless about escalating tensions, especially by sending long-range weapons. This approach raises concerns about the risk of a nuclear conflict.
If a new president does not prioritize finding a peaceful solution, the ongoing suffering for both Ukrainians and Russians will continue, while the U.S. remains heavily involved.

Who are the Elites?

14 implied HN points • 06 Dec 24

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political elites Political Discourse Public Health Election Dynamics

Elites are individuals who have power and wealth, like Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and Donald Trump. Even if they claim to be against elites, they still fit into the elite category because of their status.
Kennedy's views, especially about vaccines and public health, make some elites very uncomfortable. He challenges mainstream beliefs that many elites support, which shows a division in elite perspectives.
Many professionals need to think about why someone like Kennedy has followers and the decline of trust in traditional institutions. The situation is complex and not just about misinformation.

Eric Adams Heads to the MAGAverse

11 implied HN points • 17 Dec 24

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Governance Corruption Political strategy Campaigning

Eric Adams, the mayor of New York City, is facing serious challenges including a corruption indictment and low popularity. He may struggle to get re-elected next year.
Adams is changing his political stance, seeking support from Republicans and possibly embracing a more Trump-like image, which shows he is adaptable.
Despite the difficulties, Adams sees a chance to reinvent his career and could ride a wave of support if he gets a pardon from Trump and becomes a strong figure in the MAGA movement.

Kamala Harris, the Do or Die Candidate

27 implied HN points • 14 Oct 24

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Candidates Political strategy Party Dynamics Leadership

Kamala Harris faces a tough situation: if she loses the election, her future in politics could be bleak. Unlike other candidates, she has no clear path to a different role.
Harris hasn't proven herself in competitive races. She didn't win any primary contests, which shows she might struggle more than other candidates who have experience in such challenges.
If she wins, governing will be hard for her. A Republican Senate could block her plans, and there's little known about how she would run the country or handle major issues.

Election Day is Almost Over

15 implied HN points • 05 Nov 24

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Candidates Legislation Government Political parties

Kamala Harris is likely to win the popular vote, but the Electoral College may pose a challenge. There's a chance she could lose despite a strong campaign.
If Trump wins, he could face a divided government, which means both sides might struggle to get things done. This scenario often benefits Republicans in the long run.
The outcome of the election could significantly impact future Democratic primaries and Trump's influence in the Republican Party. A loss for Trump could weaken his control over the GOP.

A Conversation with Caleb Caudell

11 implied HN points • 21 Nov 24

📚 Literature Fiction Autofiction Creative Writing Contemporary Cultural criticism

Writing about sex can be found in contemporary literature, but the author believes we need a deeper and more critical perspective on it. They're aiming to show how sexual issues connect to wider social problems.
The writer thinks being from a place like Indiana shapes their work differently than writers from major cities. Yet, they also feel that true talent can shine no matter where someone is from.
They share their writing routine is flexible, often fueled by coffee and exercise. Writing is something they enjoy, regardless of whether they make money from it or not.

World Series!

16 implied HN points • 22 Oct 24

🎾 Sports Baseball Statistics Teams Players

Playing softball can be just as fun and competitive as baseball, even if it's not at a professional level. It offers a chance to enjoy the game and connect with friends, despite any frustrations on the field.
Baseball has become very strategic and data-driven, making it even harder for players to succeed. However, the unpredictability of the game keeps it exciting, as even the best plans can fail.
The upcoming World Series between the Yankees and Dodgers is historic and highly anticipated. It brings together two legendary teams with rich histories, making it a big deal for baseball fans everywhere.

The Untethering

13 implied HN points • 01 Nov 24

🎭️ Culture Arts Politics Literature Social justice Music

Politics and culture often clash, but they don’t always have to be mixed together. Good art can exist outside of politics.
In the past, people pushed for art to always reflect certain political views, which limited creative freedom. Not all artists want to be activists, and that’s okay.
Although we might see political ideas in art, the intense focus on social justice from the 2010s is fading. Art is likely to be viewed differently moving forward.

Can a Socialist Become Mayor?

14 implied HN points • 24 Oct 24

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Socialism Campaigns Political theory Government

Zohran Mamdani is running for mayor and would be the first Muslim and South Asian mayor of New York if elected. This is a significant step in representation in politics.
His campaign is unique because he openly identifies as a socialist, which is rare in New York's mayoral history. This could attract a different type of voter who supports leftist ideas.
Despite his strong points, Mamdani faces challenges, like a lack of endorsements and experience compared to typical candidates, which may make it tough for him to win.

The End of the Public Intellectual

16 implied HN points • 08 Oct 24

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Public Discourse Media Criticism Intellectuals Social justice Cultural Commentary

Ta-Nehisi Coates is trying to speak out about the struggles of Palestinians in a way similar to how he talked about racial injustice. He wants to bring more attention to their situation.
Despite his past influence and popularity, Coates' recent return to the spotlight does not seem to have the same impact as before. Many people are unaware of his work despite his prominent publications.
The idea of the public intellectual is fading, which means Coates might struggle to create the change he hopes for, no matter how passionately he speaks about these important issues.