TK News by Matt Taibbi $5 / month

TK News by Matt Taibbi focuses on media criticism, the challenges of independent journalism, censorship, and political analysis, particularly criticizing mainstream media and Democratic strategies. It highlights issues of free speech, disinformation, government interference in media, and advocates for transparency and civil liberties.

Media Criticism Independent Journalism Censorship and Free Speech Political Analysis Civil Liberties Government Interference in Media

The hottest Substack posts of TK News by Matt Taibbi

And their main takeaways

Pardon Me, But This Is Bullshit

17954 implied HN points • 05 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Policy Elections Public Opinion Justice
  1. The idea of pardoning someone like Anthony Fauci suggests there may be unreported wrongdoing. It makes you wonder what crimes might actually be involved.
  2. When officials say they are 'weighing' pardons, it often means they've already made up their minds. They just want to see how the public reacts first.
  3. Criticism from political opponents usually indicates broader problems. It's not just one side that's upset; it could be a sign of bigger issues at play.

Justin Trudeau's Painful Last Faceplant

15168 implied HN points • 12 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations Political Leadership Trade Policies Feminism Social media
  1. Justin Trudeau is trying to discuss women's rights and progress but faces challenges due to political tensions with the U.S.
  2. The situation is tense because Donald Trump has threatened Canada with tariffs, affecting their trade relationship.
  3. The ongoing conflict between Trudeau and Trump has become a spectacle, drawing public attention and commentary.

An Ominous Sign

9902 implied HN points • 18 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Legislation First Amendment Government funding Political parties Media Relations
  1. The Global Engagement Center (GEC) may not be shut down and could receive a one-year extension. This was part of a deal between Senate Democrats and Republicans.
  2. The GEC has been criticized for funding efforts that involved blacklisting conservative media. This issue continues to raise concerns about free speech.
  3. If the Republican party gives up on standing up for free speech, it could lead to serious consequences for voters. It's important to monitor how this situation develops.

Transcript - America This Week, Jan 31, 2025: "The Apostate Hearings: RFK, Warren, and Democrat-on-Democrat Crime"

1466 implied HN points • 01 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Government Policy Political parties Legislation
  1. The Senate hearings can often feel like a show where senators scream at nominees rather than having a real conversation. This makes the process seem unfair and focused more on drama than genuine discussion.
  2. Senators use these dramatic moments to create clips for fundraising, which often shifts the focus away from important issues to personal attacks and grandstanding.
  3. The experience of being at these hearings gives a different perspective; it feels more raw and intense than what viewers see on TV, highlighting the real emotions and lack of sincerity among some politicians.

The Bell Finally Tolls for the FBI

13359 implied HN points • 02 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political parties Government Agencies Media Relations Public Policy Political Commentary
  1. Kash Patel's nomination raises concerns about the FBI's future and suggests an intention to overhaul its leadership. Many believe Trump needs to take decisive action against the FBI after years of perceived misconduct.
  2. The article criticizes mainstream media, particularly CNN, for their coverage of the Nunes memo and claims they misrepresented facts. It argues that the media's failures blurred the lines between journalism and political agendas.
  3. The discussion emphasizes the importance of accountability in institutions like the FBI and the media. It suggests that changes in leadership could be a necessary step towards restoring public trust.
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ATW Livestream Tonight at 8 PM ET/7 PM CT

1948 implied HN points • 27 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Policy Elections Governance Media Public Opinion
  1. There's a livestream event tonight at 8 PM ET where they will discuss important political topics. It's a great opportunity to hear some insights and opinions live.
  2. The hosts will talk about how journalists should approach covering Trump's second administration, which is a hot topic right now.
  3. Trump's recent executive orders will also be discussed, including the declassification of files related to famous assassinations, which could change how we view those events.

Special Livestream at 1 p.m. ET: On the Ongoing Global Engagement Center Saga

1885 implied HN points • 27 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Censorship Media Disinformation Government Investigative Journalism
  1. There's a special livestream discussing the Global Engagement Center and how it relates to State Department censorship. It's good to stay informed about these current events.
  2. Both hosts have faced some scrutiny from the Global Engagement Center due to their reporting. It's interesting how investigative journalism can sometimes attract unwanted attention.
  3. A watchdog group has filed a lawsuit seeking information on the GEC's actions against journalists. This highlights the ongoing tension between government transparency and media freedom.

The Emperor Has No Brains

15573 implied HN points • 21 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy Military Strategy Nuclear Weapons Political Leadership International relations
  1. There's a lot of military tension right now, and the actions being taken could either mean nothing or signal serious problems ahead. It's a risky situation for everyone involved.
  2. Joe Biden's recent appearances and decisions have raised questions about who is really leading NATO and whether he is in control of the situation.
  3. With more advanced weapons being used in the conflict, the potential for escalation is high, and it’s important to pay attention to how this affects global relations.

Giant Electoral Asteroid Strikes America's Intellectual Class, Which Fails to Notice

20001 implied HN points • 06 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Political Analysis Public Opinion Media Critique Political Movements
  1. The American intellectual class seems out of touch with the reality of elections. They often seem surprised by the outcomes despite all the past events leading up to them.
  2. There has been a lot of strong messaging against certain political figures, but it hasn't changed public opinion much. This disconnect shows the ineffectiveness of their strategies.
  3. Many people feel that the way news and ideas are spread has created a bubble, leaving critical voices unheard. It's as if they are communicating from a place that doesn't reflect the views of everyday people.

Begin the Deprogramming: There Was No "Pandemic of the Unvaccinated"

18799 implied HN points • 08 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Public Health Vaccination Government Policy Media Criticism Public Opinion
  1. The vaccines didn't work as well as promised, and it's important to look at how the public was informed about them. Many people might have been misled about their effectiveness.
  2. There was a lot of pressure from officials to follow strict guidelines, but some of these recommendations may not have been based on solid research.
  3. The narrative that there was a 'pandemic of the unvaccinated' was likely part of a larger campaign, aimed at stirring emotions and turning the public against each other.

Russiagate Remnants

9972 implied HN points • 10 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Government Political parties Public Policy Political Activism
  1. Many people who were targeted during the Russiagate investigations feel their lives were significantly harmed. They lost jobs, faced harassment, and some even had to move away from their homes.
  2. There’s a call for ongoing investigations into the original Russiagate allegations, as those impacted want accountability rather than revenge. They believe the truth should be uncovered.
  3. The effects of the Russiagate scandal are still being felt today, with some of the original conspirators still active in politics. Those affected hope for justice and reform in the system.

Fine Woke Cannibals

8966 implied HN points • 14 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory Society Academia Public Policy Ideology
  1. The term 'symbolic capitalists' describes professionals who focus on ideas and narratives rather than physical labor. This group spans various fields like education, media, and consulting.
  2. The book examines modern politics, claiming that recent conflicts were more about upper-class struggles rather than genuine ideological fights. It suggests that both sides misunderstood each other's motivations.
  3. The author reflects on his role in promoting 'woke' movements, showing how political actions often come from a desire for social status rather than true concern for people on the ground.

How Will Financial Scams Affect Big Business in 2025?

1326 implied HN points • 31 Jan 25
💰 Finance Scams Economics Market Trends Financial Technology
  1. Financial scams are expected to impact big businesses in various ways by 2025. Companies will need to be more aware of these risks.
  2. There will be discussions on how different sectors, like private equity and tech, handle these scams. These sectors are likely to face unique challenges.
  3. A virtual summit is happening where experts will talk about these trends and share insights. It's a chance for everyone to learn and ask questions.

Note on the FBI

11481 implied HN points • 02 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Law enforcement Political History Public Policy Government Accountability Civil Rights
  1. The FBI has changed a lot over the years, especially after 9/11 and during Trump's presidency. Its focus has shifted from solving crimes to gathering information about people, sometimes even based on their beliefs.
  2. Historical patterns show that the FBI has often acted politically, targeting groups they consider threats. This raises concerns about their current role in monitoring American citizens.
  3. There's a call for the FBI to undergo a major overhaul. Some believe that new leadership, like Kash Patel, could help redirect the agency towards a more lawful mission.

In Election Aftermath, Hollywood Smashes Records for Lack of Self-Awareness

18171 implied HN points • 07 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Media Public Opinion Political Commentary
  1. Jimmy Kimmel and other Hollywood figures showed a lack of self-awareness after the recent election. They seemed surprised by the outcomes and how others viewed their influence.
  2. Kimmel's emotional response highlighted the disconnect between Hollywood elites and everyday voters. Many people feel misunderstood by the media and entertainment industry.
  3. There's a growing debate about the future of late-night talk shows. Kimmel's remarks suggest that their relevance might be fading as viewers have different expectations today.

It's Time to Redefine "Fringe"

14365 implied HN points • 19 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary Government Policy Public Health Elections Social Issues
  1. The term 'fringe' is often used to dismiss views that many people actually support. It's important to reconsider what we label as fringe.
  2. Critics can be quick to judge individuals based on their views without considering the larger public opinion that might align with those views.
  3. There seems to be a disconnect between mainstream experts and the beliefs of the general population, leading to debates about academic freedom and public health policy.

The Democrats' Dirty Tricks Playbook?

11578 implied HN points • 26 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political strategy Electoral Politics Party Politics Political Tactics
  1. Documents reveal that Democratic Party groups used dishonest tactics to undermine the third-party group No Labels, which they saw as a serious threat in elections. They wanted to prevent No Labels from gaining traction and presenting an alternative to traditional candidates.
  2. Strategies included creating fake websites and spreading misinformation to make No Labels appear extreme or aligned with unpopular views. This coordinated effort was planned behind closed doors by several political groups.
  3. The actions taken against No Labels highlight a troubling trend where political parties may prioritize eliminating competition rather than winning over voters. Such tactics can undermine the democratic process.

Apologies to Afroman

9295 implied HN points • 06 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary Election Issues Political Satire Government Accountability Social Issues
  1. Afroman has a new song called 'Hunter Got High' that comments on Hunter Biden's situation. It's interesting how music reflects current events.
  2. There was a discussion comparing the seriousness of Hunter Biden's actions to those of Donald Trump. Opinions on this topic vary widely across different groups.
  3. The lyrics of Afroman's song cleverly tie in political themes, showing how artists can engage with social issues through their work.

On Good and Bad AI

10761 implied HN points • 27 Nov 24
🕹 Technology AI Ethics Machine Learning Automation Digital Culture Innovation
  1. AI can be a tool that helps us, but we should be careful not to let it control us. It's important to use AI wisely and stay in charge of our own decisions.
  2. It's possible to have fun and creative interactions with AI, like making it write funny poems or reimagine famous speeches in different styles. This shows AI's potential for entertainment and creativity.
  3. However, we should also be aware of the challenges that come with AI, such as ethical concerns and the impact on jobs. It's a balance between embracing the technology and understanding its risks.

Ketanji Brown Jackson Goes Broadway

6913 implied HN points • 16 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Arts Theater Entertainment Society Humor
  1. Ketanji Brown Jackson became the first Supreme Court Justice to perform on Broadway. This was a special and historic moment for both her and the theater.
  2. She made a surprise appearance in a fun musical called '& Juliet,' which offers a twist on the classic Romeo and Juliet story. It's a modern and playful take that focuses on female empowerment.
  3. The musical is described as a campy satire, blending humor with social themes. It aims to challenge traditional narratives, making it memorable and possibly polarizing for audiences.

Interview: On Facebook and Mark Zuckerberg

2367 implied HN points • 16 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Media Technology Social media Censorship Interview
  1. Mark Zuckerberg has recently made a big shift in how he is presenting himself and Facebook. This change could have important effects moving forward.
  2. There are ongoing discussions about the impact of Facebook on free speech, especially in comparison to other social media platforms.
  3. There will be more updates and stories coming soon, including a new law in the U.K. and some controversies involving the TSA.

How America's Accurate Election Polls Were Covered Up

11997 implied HN points • 15 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Polling Media Partisanship Data journalism
  1. Some polls are seen as biased or not reliable because they're labeled as 'partisan', even if they prove to be more accurate than those deemed 'nonpartisan'. This can affect their credibility.
  2. Wikipedia removed a popular polling aggregator, Real Clear Politics, right before the election, saying it had a bias, but later had to restore it after realizing its accuracy.
  3. There's a concern that mainstream media may manipulate polling data to fit a narrative, which can mislead the public about the actual state of elections.

Our Sixty Days of Nuclear Chicken Have Begun

10440 implied HN points • 20 Nov 24
🌍 World Politics International relations Conflict Studies Nuclear policy Geopolitics Military Strategy
  1. The situation in Ukraine is getting riskier as peace talks are expected after Trump's inauguration. This is causing both Russia and the U.S. to escalate their military actions.
  2. Recent attacks involving U.S.-made ATACMS missiles have heightened tensions and alarmed Russian media. They are worried about this being a significant moment in history.
  3. There's a growing fear that we might be approaching a major conflict, with some comparing it to the dangers of the Cuban Missile Crisis. A nuclear response from Russia is now more likely, raising serious concerns.

Twitter Files Extra: How the Files Could Help Incoming Investigators

5607 implied HN points • 18 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Censorship Investigations Media Communications
  1. The documents from Twitter provide insight into how the government interacted with the platform. This includes details about the FBI's communications and its role in moderating content.
  2. There are ongoing discussions about government censorship and how agencies like the DOJ and CDC influenced Twitter's policies. Understanding this could help navigate future investigations.
  3. Numerous government agencies were involved in shaping Twitter's content moderation efforts. Investigators could find useful leads in the Twitter Files to explore these relationships further.

Three Steps to Fixing the FBI: Interview with Whistleblower Coleen Rowley

7367 implied HN points • 05 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Accountability Whistleblowing Transparency
  1. The FBI needs to stop being too political and start focusing on its main job. This means letting field agents do their work without unnecessary interference from higher-ups.
  2. Decentralizing the FBI could help it work better by allowing decisions to be made closer to where cases are happening. This would support agents in the field instead of slowing them down with bureaucracy.
  3. Transparency is important for rebuilding the FBI's trust. The public needs to know what's happening and who is held accountable for mistakes so that the FBI can improve and regain confidence.

Transcript - America This Week, Jan 24, 2025: Walter and Matt Review Donald Trump’s Executive Orders

1250 implied HN points • 25 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Executive orders Free speech Censorship Political Commentary Current Events
  1. Donald Trump signed many executive orders after taking office, focusing on various controversial topics. Some were surprising to see, especially those related to free speech and censorship.
  2. The significance of these executive orders is that they reflect concerns about government influence on speech and media. Past discussions about free speech became formal actions, which was unexpected for some.
  3. Many people contributed to the push for free speech and accountability in media, including activists and politicians. Their efforts showed that public concern can lead to actual changes in policy.

People Aren't Garbage. Partisan Politics Is

12968 implied HN points • 01 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Voting Partisanship Media Political Opinions Public Sentiment
  1. People are not defined by their political choices. Voting can say little about who we are as individuals.
  2. The media often ignores the majority of people who don’t vote, creating a misleading view of public opinion. This exclusion strengthens the divide between those who are politically active and those who are not.
  3. Caring deeply about politics is seen as essential now, and those who aren't invested are looked down upon. This mindset can harm relationships and mischaracterize people.

On "Remnants"

6117 implied HN points • 10 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Events Elections Government Agencies Political Figures Investigations
  1. Michael Caputo is a complicated figure, once known for his work in American aid during the 90s, but later came under fire during the Russiagate investigation. His story raises questions about how political narratives can change perceptions of people's actions.
  2. The Russiagate investigation had real-life consequences, affecting the lives of many individuals, including Caputo, who faced serious personal challenges during this time. It's important to think about the human impact of these political investigations.
  3. There is an ongoing debate about whether it's worth investigating the origins of the Russiagate claims, considering the lives that were affected. Reflecting on stories like Caputo's might help inform that decision.

The Pardon Arms Race Escalates

6145 implied HN points • 09 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Policy Legislation Public Health Pandemic
  1. The Senate is investigating the origins of COVID-19 more thoroughly, despite previous reports suggesting a conclusion. They believe there is still important information missing.
  2. Several federal agencies are being asked to preserve documents related to COVID-19, indicating ongoing concerns and potential for new inquiries.
  3. Lawmakers, especially from the Republican side, are frustrated with the lack of transparency from health agencies about research funding, particularly regarding the Wuhan lab.

Election Update 7: A Possible Ostensible Theoretical End

11634 implied HN points • 06 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Candidates Voting Political News Public Opinion
  1. Donald Trump seems to have won Pennsylvania according to some news sources, while others say we have to wait longer for all the votes to be counted.
  2. Fox News and Scripps both called Pennsylvania and Wisconsin for Trump, suggesting he may have won fairly this time.
  3. The situation is tense and could lead to chaotic reactions depending on the final results, but for now, it's time to rest and see what tomorrow brings.

Activism, Uncensored: On January 6th, Protests for and Against Donald Trump

2178 implied HN points • 10 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Protests Activism Election Polarization Culture war
  1. There were protests on January 6th about Donald Trump's election results. Some people wanted Congress to not certify the election, while others were asking for pardons for those involved in the earlier protests.
  2. The protests highlighted a deep divide in American culture and politics. People on both sides expressed strong beliefs and emotions regarding Trump and the events of January 6th.
  3. A video by Ford Fischer showed different viewpoints from these protests. It offered a clear look at the ongoing cultural conflicts in the country.

Note on Gloating

8973 implied HN points • 11 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political culture Media influence Public Opinion Bureaucracy Rhetoric
  1. It's okay to feel some relief after a big defeat, but it's important to stay cautious. Some problems still linger in institutions like schools and media.
  2. Even if things seem better now, there’s a chance that old habits and beliefs can resurface. Staying vigilant is key.
  3. Humor can help us process tough topics, but we shouldn't forget the challenges that may remain.

America This Week: Terror Attacks Live Discussion at 10 ET, Friday, January 3

2569 implied HN points • 03 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Terrorism Media Coverage Public Safety Law enforcement
  1. The discussion about recent terror attacks in America will be held live, responding to many new developments. It's important to stay updated as details can change quickly.
  2. Authorities have been giving contradictory information about the attacks, making the situation confusing. Clear information is essential for understanding what is happening.
  3. This live discussion will include not just news coverage but also a unique take on literature, showing the blend of different topics in a single show. Engaging with diverse subjects can enrich our perspective.

ATW Livestream Tonight at 8 PM ET/7 PM CT

2583 implied HN points • 30 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Media Elections Government Society Current Events
  1. There is an upcoming livestream called 'America This Week' tonight at 8 PM ET/7 PM CT. People can join Matt Taibbi and Walter Kirn as they discuss important stories from last week.
  2. During the livestream, they will also look back at 2024 and share predictions for 2025. This includes talking about how a second Trump administration might change the media landscape.
  3. The hosts expressed their appreciation for the support they've received from their audience over the years and shared their excitement for what’s coming in 2025.

Transcript - America This Week, Jan 17, 2025: "The Annotated Final Speech of Joe Biden"

1243 implied HN points • 18 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Elections Policy Public Discourse Media
  1. Biden's farewell address felt odd and disconnected. It didn't seem urgent or relevant, almost like it was recorded in a strange way.
  2. He talked a lot about threats to democracy but seemed to contradict himself by not taking responsibility for those threats. It felt like he was both warning us and praising the very things he was cautioning against.
  3. Biden claimed credit for a ceasefire deal in the Middle East, but it was unclear how much he truly had to do with it. People believe the deal was more about politics than actual negotiation success.

Transcript - America This Week, Jan 10, 2025: "California Fires and America's Competency Crisis"

1662 implied HN points • 11 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Disasters Public Policy Climate change Social Issues
  1. Los Angeles is currently facing severe wildfires, and the situation is critical with no containment in sight. This highlights the growing threat of natural disasters in the area.
  2. The fires raise questions about the preparedness and response of local leaders and public services. Many believe that better planning and resources could have helped manage this disaster.
  3. While some attribute these fires to climate change, it's essential to recognize the area's historical vulnerability to wildfires. There are lessons to be learned about living in disaster-prone regions and the responsibilities of local government.

Thank You

7304 implied HN points • 11 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Education Teachers Policy Public Opinion Government
  1. The author is grateful to teachers who shared their thoughts about the DOE's possible changes. It's important to acknowledge the valuable input from educators.
  2. The author has learned a lot from the teachers' responses about classroom challenges. This shows how complex education issues can be.
  3. The author is still replying to teachers and values their insights. Ongoing communication is key to understanding problems in education.