The hottest Civic engagement Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
Category
Top U.S. Politics Topics

American Un-Exceptionalism

Diane Francis • 559 implied HN points • 11 Feb 21
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Civic engagement
  1. Many American politicians ignore important issues, focusing instead on their own political gain. This shows a lack of responsibility and awareness of their duties as leaders.
  2. America's political leaders often don't compare well to those in other countries, ignoring that other nations provide better living standards and education for their citizens.
  3. The concept of 'American exceptionalism' is fading because the U.S. is not living up to its potential. The country can do better by learning from successful practices in other developed nations.

Come Ask me a Question on my Post-Election Livestream Q&A

The Chris Hedges Report • 101 implied HN points • 06 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Civic engagement
  1. There's a livestream event where you can ask questions after an election. This is a chance to get direct answers and share your thoughts.
  2. The platform encourages readers to support by subscribing either for free or with payment. This helps keep the conversation going.
  3. The post is meant to engage readers and get them involved in important discussions. It's a good opportunity to connect with the ideas being shared.

Should we have Deliberative Democracy?

Erik Examines • 89 implied HN points • 18 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Civic engagement
  1. Deliberative democracy is about having conversations among citizens to make better decisions, rather than just voting. It focuses on discussing issues deeply before deciding things.
  2. This model can be mixed with traditional democracy, where citizen assemblies could help inform lawmakers. It doesn't replace representatives but enhances how decisions are made.
  3. Using AI can help find common ground during discussions, making it easier for people to reach agreements on policies. It could guide groups to better solutions by analyzing opinions and suggesting compromises.

I Don't Think Dan Le Batard Should Dump on Trump Voters

House of Strauss • 80 implied HN points • 07 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Civic engagement
  1. Political discussions can get really intense because they affect people's lives. It's important to try to understand where others are coming from, even if you don't agree with them.
  2. Voting decisions are complicated and often involve many factors. People vote for candidates based on personal experiences and beliefs, not just political slogans.
  3. It's important to focus on connections with others and recognize their humanity, regardless of their political choices. Judging others harshly for their votes can create divides instead of understanding.

LOTS OF NEW MATERIAL FOR YOUR VIEWING PLEASURE!

Michael Tracey • 47 implied HN points • 28 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Civic engagement
  1. There's a new deal in the works between the US and Ukraine that could give the US control over many Ukrainian resources. This means Ukraine might lose some of its freedom and sovereignty.
  2. A debate in the Oval Office between Zelensky and JD Vance caused a delay in finalizing the deal. This unexpected clash raised questions about the future of US support for Ukraine.
  3. Despite the discussions and controversies, Trump stated that the US will continue to provide arms to Ukraine, showing that military support is still a priority.
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Upcoming Events: NYC, Phoenix, Nashville, DC

Bet On It • 55 implied HN points • 10 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Civic engagement
  1. There are several upcoming events in different cities, like New York City, Phoenix, Nashville, and DC. These events will be open to the public and offer opportunities to meet up.
  2. Each event will feature discussions on topics like immigration and education, with guest speakers and the chance for Q&A sessions. It's a good way to learn and engage with new ideas.
  3. People interested in attending are encouraged to express their interest in meet-ups, and organizers will try to arrange these if there's enough demand.

Thanksgiving: The Propaganda Holiday

JoeWrote • 67 implied HN points • 26 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Civic engagement
  1. Thanksgiving is often taught as a friendly feast between settlers and Native Americans, but the reality was much harsher, involving broken treaties and violence. It's important to understand the real history behind it.
  2. The holiday has been used as a form of propaganda to promote a false sense of unity and national identity in America, while ignoring the harms done to Indigenous peoples.
  3. Recognizing the true history of Thanksgiving can help us confront the myths propagated in our education system and work towards a more honest understanding of America's past.

Work. Wealth. Wisdom.

UnfairNation by Ehsan Zaffar • 3 implied HN points • 16 Dec 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Civic engagement
  1. Fund the fight. Even modest donations to candidates, organizations, and lawsuits can make a big difference in winning fights and holding power accountable.
  2. Build solutions locally. Start or support community-focused projects and training programs that create practical systems to reduce inequality and help people directly.
  3. Document and show up. Record and report misconduct by officials, and volunteer or support local groups so resistance and relief happen where people live.

What's Next?

Political Currents by Ross Barkan • 42 implied HN points • 20 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Civic engagement
  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.

Tea for Coup

Daniel Pinchbeck’s Newsletter • 16 implied HN points • 13 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Civic engagement
  1. It's important to take action and not just stand by when things seem wrong. Doing something can help us feel less powerless.
  2. Many people feel overwhelmed by the state of the world and the challenges we face. It's easy to fall into cynicism and despair.
  3. There's a sense of urgency about dealing with serious issues, like climate change and political instability. We need to be aware of these challenges and find the courage to confront them.

Zoom event Monday evening October 14

In My Tribe • 45 implied HN points • 11 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Civic engagement
  1. There's a Zoom event on October 14 at 8 PM New York time with John Samples discussing content moderation on Facebook.
  2. The event will also touch on the current state of political conflict and where it might be headed.
  3. This event is exclusive to paid subscribers, so make sure to sign up if you want to join.

🗳️ The Year of the Vote

UnfairNation by Ehsan Zaffar • 1 implied HN point • 13 Jan 26
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Civic engagement
  1. Congress was unusually dysfunctional in 2025, passing almost no bills, presiding over the longest government shutdown, and seeing massive turnover.
  2. Lawmakers largely abandoned oversight and allowed the executive branch to act without meaningful checks, enabling firings of inspectors general, targeted settlements, and other retaliatory actions that led to real chaos.
  3. The remedy is political: every House seat and many Senate seats are up in 2026, so voters can hold representatives accountable and replace leaders who aren’t doing their jobs.

December 31, 2024

Letters from an American • 30 implied HN points • 01 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Civic engagement
  1. The best part of the year was meeting many people while traveling across the country. Connecting with others made the year feel special and meaningful.
  2. Gratitude is important, and the support from others is deeply appreciated. It highlights the value of community and shared experiences.
  3. The red skies at sunset can be seen as a sign of hope. Looking forward, it's good to stay positive and hopeful for the future.

Making Civic Life Thick Again; Rashid Khalidi in Haaretz; Remembering Canarsie

Unpopular Front • 29 implied HN points • 01 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Civic engagement
  1. Political parties need to focus on building stronger local organizations to reconnect with working-class voters. This means creating spaces where people can gather and engage in civic life together.
  2. The Israeli-Palestinian conflict is complex and cannot be solved easily. Understanding both sides and their histories is crucial to discussing potential solutions.
  3. Using violent tactics in political struggles can backfire, especially when the opposing side feels victimized. It's important to think about the long-term effects of such strategies.

In None We Trust

Some Unpleasant Arithmetic • 21 implied HN points • 08 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Civic engagement
  1. Social trust is about how much people trust each other, and it's important for communities. High trust helps groups work well together and makes society more connected.
  2. Income and social connections matter. People with better jobs and education tend to have more social trust, which can lead to better relationships and success.
  3. Loneliness and low social trust can hurt society. People are feeling more isolated, especially after the pandemic, which can lead to less community engagement and connection.

A long, thoughtful post about Montesquieu, with lots of untranslated French idioms

The Cosmopolitan Globalist • 11 implied HN points • 05 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Civic engagement
  1. The post hints at discussing Montesquieu but then shifts to a lighter tone about current events. It's a playful way to engage readers by mixing serious topics with entertainment.
  2. The author expresses a mix of sadness for their country while also finding entertainment in the situation. This shows how people can have complex feelings about serious issues.
  3. Readers are encouraged to join and explore more content, emphasizing the idea of community and shared interests in political and cultural discussions.

Polarization, Powerlessness, and what We can Actually Do

Critical Mass • 2 implied HN points • 29 Nov 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Civic engagement
  1. Politics and culture have turned ordinary differences into hardened, tribal divides, making people feel forced to pick a side and stop listening.
  2. Saying "I don't know" and treating ideas like hypotheses—looking at the evidence with curiosity—helps break assumptions and makes it easier to change your mind.
  3. Citizens aren't powerless: local communities, patient dialogue, and reform efforts can shrink the space between "us" and "them" through small, sustained civic actions.

Electoral Blues

Tessa Fights Robots • 24 implied HN points • 26 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Civic engagement
  1. Many political elections feel like a game or theater to some people. They believe real change doesn't come from just voting, but from facing what's truly going on around us.
  2. Our personal power to create change comes from how we manage our energy and connect with others. It's about clarity, love, and courage in our daily lives.
  3. Instead of getting caught up in elections, we should focus on our inner strength and the courage to stand up against those who try to control us. We have the ability to change the world ourselves.

January 11, 2025

Letters from an American • 18 implied HN points • 12 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Civic engagement
  1. Coming home after a trip can feel cozy and warm, especially with a light snowfall. It’s nice to enjoy the little moments, like an evening of playing games with friends.
  2. Taking time to rest and relax is important. It’s okay to take a break and recharge after being busy.
  3. Supporting local artists by visiting galleries is a great way to appreciate creativity in your community. It helps connect you with the art and the people behind it.

November 9, 2024

Letters from an American • 21 implied HN points • 10 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Civic engagement
  1. Finding peace in quiet moments is important during chaotic times. It's nice to take a break and reflect on calmness.
  2. Sleep is essential, especially after busy or stressful days. Rest can help recharge for whatever comes next.
  3. Art can provide a different perspective and comfort. A beautiful photograph can be a reminder of serene moments amidst daily chaos.

How to Get Policy Totally and Completely and Exasperatedly Wrong

Exasperated Infrastructures • 19 implied HN points • 05 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Civic engagement
  1. New legislation in NYC about e-bikes may not solve the real problems of street safety and congestion. Instead of just registering bikes, the focus should be on redesigning streets for better safety for everyone.
  2. The support for this e-bike legislation from various politicians suggests a lack of understanding of the real issues. Many are using it as a way to appear proactive without actually addressing the deeper problems at play.
  3. There are big questions about how this new law will be enforced and funded. Without clear answers on who pays and who manages it, this policy may end up being ineffective and a waste of resources.

Trumpocalypse Now!

Daniel Pinchbeck’s Newsletter • 15 implied HN points • 25 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Civic engagement
  1. Building real, face-to-face community meetings can help people connect and discuss real issues more effectively than online talk. It's important to have local gatherings to share experiences.
  2. A new approach to resistance and opposition is needed, focusing on integrity and transparency. This could create a moral authority that helps people unite against extreme corporate and state power.
  3. Authentic Christianity challenges many values of modern society. Living by Christ's teachings means rejecting materialism and prioritizing love and community over power and control.

The Long And The Short Of It.

Trying to Understand the World • 5 implied HN points • 09 Jul 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Civic engagement
  1. Longer essays and detailed discussions can help us think deeply and understand complex issues better. People might actually enjoy taking the time to read and engage with longer forms.
  2. We often prefer simple explanations and quick answers, but real issues are usually complex and have many sides. Acknowledging this complexity helps us make better decisions.
  3. The way we consume information today, especially on social media, can lead to misunderstandings and quick judgments. Taking time to reflect is important for meaningful discussions.

The End of Work and the Future of Civilization?

Daniel Pinchbeck’s Newsletter • 11 implied HN points • 30 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Civic engagement
  1. Artificial Intelligence is rapidly advancing, and it could soon take over many jobs, including professional and manual labor. This change might happen within just a few years.
  2. A lot of people are stuck in their views and find it hard to see other perspectives. This makes it tough to have open conversations about political and social issues.
  3. The impact of automation could lead to millions losing their jobs in the near future. The shift might create more unemployment than new job opportunities in some sectors.

“The Woke vs. The Proud?": How Racial Attitudes are Reshaping American Patriotism

The Missing Data Depot • 3 implied HN points • 17 Jul 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Civic engagement
  1. Many Americans are feeling less proud to be part of their country, especially younger people and those on the political left. This trend shows a big drop in national pride over the years.
  2. People's views on racial issues are strongly linked to how proud they feel about being American. Those who are more 'woke' about racial inequality often feel less proud of the nation.
  3. The decline in patriotism isn't just about politics or one leader; it's rooted in deeper changes in society and attitudes towards race and equality.

Why it's OK To Ignore Politics

We're Gonna Get Those Bastards • 7 implied HN points • 08 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Civic engagement
  1. If politics makes you feel good or bad, it might be time to rethink things. Most of what happens in politics is out of your control, so don’t let it affect your mood.
  2. Getting too caught up in political arguments on social media can actually make you unhappy. Maybe it's better to focus on what brings you joy in life instead.
  3. Having calm discussions in person can help change opinions more than online fighting. It’s often more productive to talk to people face-to-face rather than argue online.

Chaos reigns across Great Britain | article

Tumbleweed Words • 7 implied HN points • 05 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Civic engagement
  1. Many people are upset about the lack of accountability in the UK government regarding serious issues, especially involving children. It's important for society to recognize these problems and demand change.
  2. There is a feeling that the current leadership in Britain operates like a criminal group, punishing those who speak out against injustices. This environment can lead to fear and silence among citizens.
  3. Unity and public outcry are crucial for avoiding further decline in society. Citizens need to stand together and call for a new government to bring about real change.

Nyhetsbrev steigan.no 28.10.2024

steigan.no • 8 implied HN points • 28 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Civic engagement
  1. Many people reported health issues from old computer screens, and this problem seems to persist with modern smart meters. It's important to understand the potential health risks from technology we use every day.
  2. Trust in media in the US has reached record lows, with more people expressing distrust than trust. This highlights a growing divide in how people perceive news sources.
  3. Younger Republicans are now supporting a shift in US foreign policy towards Israel, showing a significant change in political attitudes among the youth. This indicates a potential shift in how future generations may approach foreign policy.

Today: Live Chat with Micah Sifry

Daniel Pinchbeck’s Newsletter • 2 implied HN points • 02 Jul 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Civic engagement
  1. Today, there's a live chat with Micah Sifry, a political strategist with a lot of experience. It's a good chance to learn about civic technology and its impact on politics.
  2. Micah has written several important books related to technology and politics. His work focuses on how civic tech can influence change and why the internet hasn't yet changed politics significantly.
  3. He is active in local politics and works with groups that aim to make a difference in communities. Joining the chat could give you insight into how activism works on a local level.

Transcript of "The election may not mean what we think."

Charles Eisenstein • 5 implied HN points • 17 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Civic engagement
  1. The recent election has stirred many emotions in people, from hope to despair. It's important to recognize these feelings without making quick judgments about what they mean.
  2. Uncertainty is a big part of our current situation. Instead of clinging to one narrative, we should explore different viewpoints and stay open to new ideas.
  3. We might face significant changes that challenge what we know. Preparing for the unexpected means letting go of fixed beliefs and being curious about what could come next.

Fostering Free Expression in Higher Education

Natural Selections • 4 implied HN points • 10 Dec 24
🚌 Education Civic engagement
  1. Universities should adopt the Chicago Principles, which support free speech and allow everyone to express themselves without fear of backlash. This helps create a safer space for open discussion.
  2. Administrators and faculty should encourage respectful disagreement and avoid ruling with fear. They should treat students as partners in learning, allowing for mistakes and corrections.
  3. Students should embrace diverse ideas and experiences, rather than seek comfort in familiar beliefs. Engaging with different perspectives helps broaden understanding and growth.

Mini Exasperation #5

Exasperated Infrastructures • 2 implied HN points • 21 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Civic engagement
  1. Island Press is having a sale on e-books for just $4.99, making it a great time to support a small publisher and read more about planning and urbanism.
  2. Austin has made it illegal to park in bike lanes, with fines between $50 and $300, which aims to improve safety for cyclists.
  3. A new study shows that many people prefer ride-hailing services like Uber or Lyft over public transit, highlighting a need for changes in how we think about transportation options.

Why the #SOTU Matters

Matt’s Five Points • 0 implied HN points • 24 Jan 12
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Civic engagement
  1. The State of the Union address symbolizes unity in government. It's a rare moment when all branches of government come together, reminding us that we are a united republic, even with differing opinions.
  2. It reflects how the government works, showing that the President doesn't just make laws but asks Congress to act. This moment highlights the importance of collaboration in democracy.
  3. The emotional impact of the State of the Union is significant. It creates feelings of pride and hope, showcasing the power of the democratic process and the celebration of our government.

Church Democracy

Matt’s Five Points • 0 implied HN points • 13 Nov 11
⛪ Faith & Spirituality Civic engagement
  1. Democratic structures in churches can empower community members. People feel more involved and engaged when they have a say in decisions, especially in smaller, more self-governing congregations.
  2. The election process observed was not very effective. It seemed to favor candidates with some support but also significant opposition, and many voters did not fully understand the responsibilities of the positions.
  3. Getting young people involved in voting is beneficial for both them and the church. It helps them feel connected and valued, and it could encourage them to stay engaged as they grow older.

Twelve minutes of popular sovereignty

Matt’s Five Points • 0 implied HN points • 08 Nov 11
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Civic engagement
  1. Voting can feel special and meaningful, like being part of something bigger. It's a chance to connect with history and the future every time you cast your vote.
  2. Going to the polls is a mix of excitement and calm. It's quieter now than in the past, but that doesn't make it any less important.
  3. The process of voting has changed over time, with new technology making it easier. But the feeling of participating in democracy stays the same.

No Sense in Fighting This Meme...

Matt’s Five Points • 0 implied HN points • 16 Feb 12
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Civic engagement
  1. Memes are powerful and can spread quickly. It's often better to embrace them than to fight against them.
  2. Trying to resist a popular meme can lead to more negativity. It's usually a waste of energy to push back.
  3. Understanding and engaging with memes can lead to better communication and connection with others. It's important to be aware of their impact.

Not my favorite holiday

Matt’s Five Points • 0 implied HN points • 17 Feb 12
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Civic engagement
  1. Some holidays, like Columbus Day, may not hold much cultural significance and often aren't celebrated outside of being a day off work.
  2. The author feels uncomfortable with the way we honor political figures, particularly George Washington, believing that democracy is more about the collective efforts of many people rather than individual heroism.
  3. Instead of celebrating specific leaders, the author suggests we should focus on holidays that recognize broader accomplishments, like Constitution Day or a day celebrating civil rights victories.