The hottest Campaign strategies Substack posts right now

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Top U.S. Politics Topics

When the Edge Lords Lead

Erick Erickson's Confessions of a Political Junkie • 1838 implied HN points • 29 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary Elections Campaign strategies Voter Behavior Media influence
  1. The people leading Trump's events tend to be edgy and enjoy making shocking jokes, which can backfire with voters. They don’t seem to recognize how their humor might upset others.
  2. Comedian Tony Hinchcliffe made a joke that offended many, and his humor reflects how tone-deaf these leaders are to wider voter opinions. This can be risky for Trump’s campaign.
  3. As the election approaches, every mistake could sway undecided voters, so it's crucial for campaigns to focus on appealing to all potential supporters, not just their base.

Bunk, Debunked

Magic + Loss • 894 implied HN points • 28 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Public Opinion Elections Political Rhetoric Voting Trends Campaign strategies
  1. Kamala Harris is doing well in several polls, showing she's ahead of Trump nationally. This is encouraging for her supporters as it suggests strong backing.
  2. Trump is using aggressive and divisive language that echoes dangerous past movements. Many observers are concerned about the implications of this rhetoric.
  3. The results of these polls counter common narratives that suggest Harris is losing support among certain groups. It's important to rely on data rather than hearsay.

SHOW NOTES: JMart Reaches For the Towel; Ignoring Biden

Erick Erickson's Confessions of a Political Junkie • 1099 implied HN points • 23 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Election Analysis Campaign strategies Political Commentary Media Critique Voter Engagement
  1. Early voting for Kamala Harris isn't going well in key states like Arizona and Nevada, which could signal trouble for Democrats.
  2. Some media and political commentators are beginning to doubt Kamala Harris's viability as a candidate, and hints of concern are growing within the Democratic party.
  3. The press is getting anxious as the election nears, showcasing a desire to spotlight controversies surrounding Trump while largely overlooking similar issues with Biden.

Today's Hot Reads: Fear, Strategy, and Surprising Political Twists

COVID Reason • 218 implied HN points • 28 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Voter sentiment Campaign strategies Political Influence
  1. Using fear in political campaigns may not actually help win voters, and it could just create noise.
  2. Young voters are becoming more important in elections, and there's a focus on how Harris is trying to engage them.
  3. Trump's popularity may be rising in response to attacks from the left, showing a surprising twist in voter support.

Make America Gilded Again

Campaign Trails • 5064 implied HN points • 04 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political History Campaign strategies Economic Policy Social movements Populism
  1. Many people support Trump's idea of making America great again, but it's mostly based on nostalgic feelings about the past. They often don't really specify what that 'great' time is.
  2. Trump's idea seems to relate to the 1890s, a time known for wealth for a few and poverty for many. Most people were struggling to get by while a small number of rich people thrived.
  3. The 1890s also had serious issues with racism and restrictions on people's rights. For many, that period was quite harsh, showing that Trump's vision might not be good for everyone.
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7 Reasons Democrats Should Be Optimistic About Their Chances in 2026 and 2028

Noahpinion • 23176 implied HN points • 15 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Political parties Public Opinion Campaign strategies Political Analysis
  1. Lower voter turnout could actually help Democrats win in future elections, as they tend to do better when fewer voters show up.
  2. Republicans face a challenge in finding a strong leader to replace Trump, which may hurt their ability to energize voters in upcoming elections.
  3. Historically, when one party is in power, the public often shifts against them, suggesting Democrats might benefit in the next elections.

Morning Reads: Biden, Harris, Trump, and More in the Political Mix

COVID Reason • 376 implied HN points • 22 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Voter Behavior Campaign strategies Political Analysis Political Tactics
  1. Biden may actually be the best candidate we've had, as some articles suggest he knows how to handle the country's problems well.
  2. Kamala Harris needs to change her approach to reach non-college-educated white voters better, especially in key swing states.
  3. There are signs that some middle-class Black voters are shifting their support to the right, which could change the voting landscape.

On the Occasion of This Election, Let Me Talk to You About Bill Clinton

Freddie deBoer • 13551 implied HN points • 04 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Political parties Political Ideologies Voting Rights Campaign strategies
  1. The writer feels that voting for candidates just because they belong to a party is not right. They believe politicians should earn votes by truly representing the people's values.
  2. They think that the Democratic Party has moved too far to the right and is too focused on compromise, which harms its ability to address important issues.
  3. The writers criticize Bill Clinton for his conservative actions and believe that the Democratic Party should not rely on him as a respected figure.

Voters Sent Democrats a Clear Message. They Don’t Want to Hear It.

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 3700 implied HN points • 18 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Political parties Political Ideologies Public Opinion Campaign strategies
  1. Democrats are ignoring important cultural issues like race and immigration that many voters care about. This disconnect is hurting their popularity.
  2. Ruy Teixeira believes that the party's focus on strict ideological beliefs is driving away working-class Americans. It’s crucial for them to regain this group's support.
  3. Instead of reevaluating their stance on cultural issues, Democrats seem to be avoiding serious discussions. This denial could keep them unpopular with the general public.

After Joe

Yascha Mounk • 3337 implied HN points • 21 Jul 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Candidates Political parties Public Opinion Campaign strategies
  1. Kamala Harris needs to build broader support if she becomes the Democratic nominee. It's important for voters to feel they have a choice and a voice in the election process.
  2. Harris should focus on appealing to swing voters and moving toward the political center. This means addressing key issues in a way that connects with a wider audience, especially those uncertain about their support.
  3. The upcoming election is competitive, and Democrats are showing they want to win. A strong campaign against Trump could turn the tide, even with Harris's past challenges.

Frail Infirm Grifters

Points And Figures • 1145 implied HN points • 06 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Reform Elections Political parties Campaign strategies
  1. Many politicians in Washington are quite old and some are not able to fulfill their duties. There's a belief that term limits could help keep Congress fresh and accountable.
  2. Political dynasties are common, with certain families holding positions for generations. This makes it hard for new ideas and leaders to emerge.
  3. To improve politics, ideas like limiting the number of years someone can serve, taxing former politicians who lobby, and changing their retirement benefits are suggested.

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

Breaking the News • 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.

I Can’t Believe Calling Him Hitler Didn’t Work

Rob Henderson's Newsletter • 4091 implied HN points • 06 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Political Commentary Public Opinion Political History Campaign strategies
  1. People are surprised that calling someone 'Hitler' doesn't always change opinions. This shows that extreme labeling may not impact how others vote or think.
  2. Some fear that Americans might elect a controversial or criminal figure as president. This reflects concerns about the current political climate and choices.
  3. The situation highlights a deeper debate about political tactics and their effectiveness. Some tactics may backfire or become less relatable in real-life decision-making.

Chartbook 329 Yelling at the TV - The non-debate about climate in the US Presidential debate and what it hides.

Chartbook • 1244 implied HN points • 23 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Election Issues Climate Policy Public Opinion Energy Politics Campaign strategies
  1. The US presidential candidates aren't talking much about climate change, even as extreme weather events keep happening. This shows how climate issues are largely ignored in political debates.
  2. Both Trump and Harris seem to agree on the need for more energy production, but they approach energy policy very differently. This creates a situation where neither candidate is fully addressing climate change solutions.
  3. There’s a growing coalition in the US that supports new energy solutions, from renewable energy to nuclear power. This shows that despite political divides, many people want change in how energy is produced and consumed.

Thoughts on Joe throwing in the towel.

Matt’s Five Points • 499 implied HN points • 21 Jul 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Presidency Political Climate Political parties Campaign strategies
  1. Biden stepping down from the nomination seems like a good decision given concerns about his age and abilities. This change helps avoid the risk of having someone unfit for the presidency.
  2. The political landscape is changing fast, and Biden's exit may lead to a smoother path for Harris, who is likely to get a lot of support from the party.
  3. It's important to remember that even if a new candidate like Harris faces challenges, the decision to move on from Biden was likely the best option for the party right now.

What Happened?

Fake Noûs • 584 implied HN points • 16 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Candidates Political Behavior Political Philosophy Campaign strategies
  1. Many people find Trump's character appealing, despite his controversial actions. They admire traits like honesty in his bluntness and a strong, dominant personality.
  2. Trump's supporters often view his behavior as a sign of strength and masculinity. This admiration can make them overlook his scandals and lies.
  3. Some voters feel emotionally connected to Trump, almost like he's a cult leader. They follow him not because of policies, but because they resonate with his boldness and confidence.

Kamala Harris’ Hitler-Focused Closing Argument Is A Shameful Stain On Her Party

Michael Shellenberger • 1598 implied HN points • 25 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Political Commentary Campaign strategies Public Opinion Media Relations
  1. Kamala Harris made a strong statement accusing Trump of wanting military leaders like those from Hitler's time. This claim is meant to show concerns about Trump's leadership style.
  2. The idea that Trump admires dictators is a central argument in Harris' campaign. She uses this to warn voters about the dangers of his presidency.
  3. Critics argue that Harris' focus on Hitler to make her point could backfire. Many feel it distracts from broader issues and may not be the strongest way to motivate voters.

Juggling for High Stakes, Nate Silver Expertly Keeps All the Balls in the Air

Brad DeLong's Grasping Reality • 253 implied HN points • 03 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Polling Political Analysis Demographics Campaign strategies
  1. Nate Silver analyzes the 2024 presidential polls by juggling different polls and what they say about the voters. He's trying to figure out whether the surprising results are due to model errors or actual changes in voter behavior.
  2. He believes that some pollsters may be hesitant to share results that seem too far from expected outcomes, leading to overly tight poll results. This herding effect makes it hard to know what's really going on in the electorate.
  3. Silver highlights the conflict between different polls, like Selzer's showing a lead for Harris in Iowa and Siena's favoring Trump in Arizona. If both polls are correct, it could suggest big shifts in voter preferences since past elections.

NEW EVENT: How the YIMBYs won

Odds and Ends of History • 335 implied HN points • 02 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Housing policy Political movement Campaign strategies Government Affordability
  1. The YIMBY movement focuses on making housing more affordable and accessible, which has gained attention in British politics. It's about saying 'Yes In My Back Yard' to new housing developments.
  2. Over time, the YIMBY movement has shifted the political conversation in Westminster, making housing a key issue that politicians now care about. Even high-level politicians, like the Prime Minister, are aligning with this movement.
  3. There will be a live event where Anya Martin, a key figure in the YIMBY movement, will discuss how it changed the political landscape and how they managed to win the housing debate.

The Election That Ended Liberalism.

JoeWrote • 214 implied HN points • 07 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Political parties Political Ideologies Campaign strategies Government Policy
  1. The recent election showed that centrist liberalism failed to meet the needs of voters. Many people wanted significant change but didn't feel inspired by the Democratic candidates.
  2. Blame for the loss was quickly placed on various external factors instead of accountability within the Democratic Party. This pattern of blaming others prevents real solutions from emerging.
  3. Voters want real change and are open to both progressive ideas and Trump's platform. If Democrats don't offer appealing solutions, people may turn to extremes for answers.

Four big US election takes: Yes, it was the woke stuff.

Odds and Ends of History • 603 implied HN points • 11 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Political parties Public Opinion Political Analysis Campaign strategies
  1. The concept of 'woke' issues played a role in the recent election outcomes. Many believe that focusing too much on these topics hurt certain candidates.
  2. There are key Democratic figures to watch. Their actions will show if the party is really ready to make changes and address its challenges.
  3. Polling data has been accurate again, suggesting it’s important to listen to what voters are saying instead of dismissing their concerns.

Breaking the Democratic Double Standard

American Dreaming • 169 implied HN points • 08 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Political parties Campaign strategies Voter Behavior Political Ethics
  1. The Democratic Party faces a tough challenge because they are seen as less trustworthy than Republicans. This double standard means that any mistake by Democrats is heavily criticized, while Republicans get a pass for bigger wrongdoings.
  2. Democrats have a harder time selling their ideas because they tend to be more complex and unfamiliar. This makes it difficult to convince voters, especially as people often prefer sticking with what they know.
  3. The structure of the Electoral College favors Republicans, allowing them to win without the popular vote, while Democrats struggle to do the opposite. This system is unlikely to change, which adds to the challenges for the Democratic Party.

I Hope I'm Wrong

Unpopular Front • 153 implied HN points • 06 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Political theory Political Communication Authoritarianism Campaign strategies
  1. It's important to trust your instincts, even when others disagree. Sometimes, being confident in your own analysis brings clarity in uncertain times.
  2. Having a strong, clear vision is crucial in politics. If you don't present a bold idea of the future, it makes it hard for people to rally behind you.
  3. Adapting to new situations and challenges is key. Old tactics might not work anymore, and new strategies need to be developed to build support and create change.

Who agrees with Liz Cheney?

Michael Tracey • 120 implied HN points • 31 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Analysis Election Dynamics Campaign strategies Political History
  1. Kamala Harris and Liz Cheney are aligning their political views, suggesting they share common ground on some issues, particularly regarding foreign policy. This connection raises questions about their past political differences.
  2. Liz Cheney's history shows that she was supportive of many Trump policies while in Congress, especially regarding foreign affairs. This past support contrasts sharply with her current criticism of him.
  3. Despite their disagreements, Trump and Cheney may both favor keeping a strong military presence in Afghanistan, indicating a surprising overlap in their views during the 2024 campaign.

Election 2024: The Day Before

The Reactionary • 82 implied HN points • 04 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Polling Political parties Voter Turnout Campaign strategies
  1. Republicans are feeling more confident going into the 2024 election, especially with recent polling showing Trump gaining ground in key swing states. The mood has shifted significantly in the last couple of months.
  2. Early voting results indicate that Republicans have better turnout compared to Democrats, especially in states like Nevada and Pennsylvania. This may suggest a problem with Democrat enthusiasm compared to the previous election.
  3. In several swing states, urban and female voter turnout is down compared to 2020, while rural turnout is up for Republicans. This shift could impact the overall election results.

No One Knows What is Gonna Happen

Unpopular Front • 56 implied HN points • 05 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Election Analysis Political Commentary Campaign strategies Voter Behavior
  1. Predicting the future, especially in politics, is really tough. Many so-called experts often get it wrong, and people remember their mistakes.
  2. Polls can be confusing and don't always give a clear picture. They sometimes just repeat the idea that things could go either way without saying much.
  3. Trump's popularity and campaign are complicated. While he has a loyal base, many people also dislike him, making the outcome uncertain.

December 13, 2024

Letters from an American • 18 implied HN points • 14 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Election Dynamics Campaign strategies Public Policy Government Institutions Political appointments
  1. Trump's recent campaign seemed more like a performance for voters than a plan for real governance. He focused on attention-grabbing promises rather than practical policies.
  2. His presidency may emphasize revenge on political enemies and personal gain, with appointments that reflect loyalty over competency. This approach could damage American institutions.
  3. Trump appears to use his inauguration fund as a way for wealthy donors to influence his administration without any required transparency on how the money is spent.

More on the Poverty of Democratic Party Organizing

theconnector • 255 implied HN points • 11 Jul 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Democratic Party Campaign strategies Political Activism
  1. Democratic party grassroots leaders are feeling disconnected from party professionals and facing challenges in coordinating efforts.
  2. Local volunteer leaders desire to contribute expertise but often work under inexperienced field organizers who lack familiarity with local issues.
  3. Volunteers report outdated technology, lack of feedback mechanisms, and ineffective campaign strategies within the Democratic party.

Macrodoses #5: The Election

Reboot • 17 implied HN points • 11 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Election Analysis Political Rhetoric Government Policies Campaign strategies
  1. There's a big shift happening in tech, moving from wanting less government control to actually working more closely with the government. This change seems tied to recent political events and the tech industry's desire to stay in favor with lawmakers.
  2. Many people feel disconnected from political narratives because their real-life experiences don’t match the statistics often provided. This gap can lead to distrust in institutions when voters' feelings are dismissed.
  3. Right-wing ideas are finding success on social media and through influencer culture, while progressive ideas struggle to gain the same traction. This means left-leaning voices need to find better ways to communicate their visions in relatable and appealing ways.

October 29, 2024

Letters from an American • 20 implied HN points • 30 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Candidates Party Politics Campaign strategies
  1. At a recent rally, Donald Trump made aggressive statements and faced backlash for comments made by his supporters, which were seen as racist and divisive.
  2. Kamala Harris, at her rally, emphasized unity and freedom, framing the election as a choice between chaos and a better future for all Americans.
  3. Harris promised policies focused on helping working families, restoring reproductive rights, and immigration reform, contrasting her vision with Trump's approach.

Tech's New Right

Diane Francis • 259 implied HN points • 02 Jun 22
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Republican party Political Influence Campaign strategies
  1. Peter Thiel is gaining attention as a key supporter of the Republican Party. He's helping to influence politics by backing certain candidates.
  2. Thiel is the biggest donor for the Republican mid-term elections this year. He's focused on removing GOP members who disagree with him.
  3. His approach is similar to other wealthy figures in tech, like Bill Gates and Elon Musk, but he aims to make a bigger mark in politics.

Wipeout

Comment is Freed • 90 implied HN points • 12 Jul 23
🌍 World Politics Political Analysis Campaign strategies
  1. Polls show Labour and Conservatives have had stable numbers, but shifts in momentum affect perceptions.
  2. Rishi Sunak's lack of progress against pledges and rising interest rates have impacted the public perception of the Conservative party.
  3. There is a possibility of a Tory wipeout, despite historical trends suggesting political fortunes tend to improve from midterm to elections.

Link'in Park

Matt’s Five Points • 0 implied HN points • 16 Dec 11
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Political Analysis Voting behavior Campaign strategies Political Commentary
  1. GOP primary voters may not prioritize electability as much as expected. It's important to focus on what actually matters to them.
  2. Online piracy is seen by some as a theft issue, but there are discussions about its impact on the economy and how we view copyright.
  3. Recent political decisions, like indefinite detention laws, can lead to disappointment among citizens who care about civil rights and the Constitution.

Marilynne Robinson on Joe Biden

Logos and Liberty • 0 implied HN points • 15 Mar 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Presidential candidates Political Commentary Election Analysis Campaign strategies
  1. Marilynne Robinson views Joe Biden as a competent and wise individual, highlighting the significance of experience and institutional memory in leadership.
  2. Age should not be a defining factor in evaluating a leader's capabilities; it varies among individuals, and mental sharpness can persist with aging.
  3. Considering potential successors and the stability of the republic is crucial in political decision-making, emphasizing the importance of assessing candidates' ability to fulfill the duties of the presidency.