The hottest Civil Rights Substack posts right now

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

The United States was founded on speaking up against tyranny

Marcus on AI • 8932 implied HN points • 23 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Democracy Tyranny Civil Rights Government Freedom
  1. The U.S. was built on the idea of standing up against oppression. It's important to remember that speaking out is crucial for democracy.
  2. Recent actions by leaders are seen as frightening and could lead to more significant issues if people don't voice their concerns.
  3. Privacy is at risk, with personal information being shared without proper checks. We need to protect our rights and encourage open discussions.

No Kings

Thinking about... • 754 implied HN points • 16 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Activism Protests Civil Rights History Government
  1. We want freedom from kings and powerful leaders because they often put their needs above ours. Freedom means a government that truly works for the people.
  2. History shows that the fight for freedom is a long journey, filled with struggles against oppression. It teaches us that we need allies and to listen to each other.
  3. Protests are just the start of the work for freedom. They remind us that we can stand up and take action together for change.

HWFO Reading List, February 2025

Handwaving Freakoutery • 147 implied HN points • 21 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Gun Control Culture Wars Civil Rights Political Rhetoric Social Issues
  1. Spiking articles can be a way to maintain quality and ensure only the best thoughts are shared. It's okay to keep some content private if it doesn't meet your standards.
  2. There's a belief that guns could eventually be a unifying social force rather than a divisive one. However, acknowledging the historical context and issues surrounding gun ownership is important.
  3. Participating in discussions about complex issues, even if some ideas aren't suitable for publication, can still provide valuable insight and foster community engagement.

The Right to Vote

Campaign Trails • 4426 implied HN points • 29 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Voting Rights Civil Rights Political History Activism Election Integrity
  1. Voting is really important, and it has a long history of struggle. Many people fought hard to secure the right to vote for everyone.
  2. Some activists even lost their lives while fighting for voting rights. This shows just how much they believed voting mattered.
  3. If voting wasn't important, people wouldn't have had to sacrifice so much to protect it. Everyone should remember the value of their vote.

Too Much Of What Happened Was Not Normal

Emerald Robinson’s The Right Way • 3293 implied HN points • 28 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary Elections Biden administration Civil Rights Media influence
  1. A lot of what is happening today doesn't feel normal, and many people are concerned about the state of leadership. It suggests that people question the actions and decisions of current political leaders.
  2. Some believe that the government and big tech are working together to control information and limit free speech. This creates fear and distrust among the public.
  3. Many people feel that they can voice their opinions and protest against current leaders, believing they have the right to influence how their country is run. There's a sense of disillusionment with authority.
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Israel Pushes New Atrocity Narrative Just As Ceasefire Deadline Approaches

Caitlin’s Newsletter • 2030 implied HN points • 22 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations Civil Rights Government Policy Media Analysis Conflict Studies
  1. Israel is creating new stories about atrocities to justify continuing military actions in Gaza as ceasefire talks are approaching. This seems like a tactic to rally support for resuming violence.
  2. The claims being made by Israel lack evidence, and there is reason to believe that the children in question may have died as collateral damage from Israeli strikes rather than at the hands of Hamas.
  3. This narrative plays into a larger strategy to deflect attention from the ongoing violence in Gaza and justify actions by portraying Israel as a victim, while ignoring the suffering of many innocent people.

Liberals Hate Socialists Because Socialists Are The Real Thing

Caitlin’s Newsletter • 1834 implied HN points • 20 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Socialism Liberalism Capitalism Civil Rights Military Policy
  1. Socialists and liberals often clash because socialists expose the realities that liberals might prefer to ignore. This makes it uncomfortable for liberals who want to believe in their ideals.
  2. Supporters of Israel can be divided into two groups: those who accept the harsh realities and those who deceive themselves about the situation. Both groups ultimately support the same actions, just with different attitudes.
  3. Believing that capitalism can solve environmental problems is like having blind faith. Many think technology will save us while ignoring that continued profit pursuit harms our planet.

Trump's civil war

Thinking about... • 1136 implied HN points • 12 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Election Government Civil Rights Political Rhetoric History
  1. Trump is trying to change the military's role from protecting the country to controlling the people. He wants soldiers to act against American citizens instead of defending democracy.
  2. His speeches suggest that the past military victories are being used to justify future actions that aren't legal. Trump is encouraging soldiers to follow him personally rather than the Constitution.
  3. By calling migration an 'invasion', Trump is mixing ideas of war and policy, aiming to create an enemy within the country. This could lead to dangerous situations where soldiers might harm their fellow citizens.

Natan Sharansky: A President’s Words Saved Me in the Gulag

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 779 implied HN points • 21 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Policy Foreign Relations Political Commentary Civil Rights
  1. Words from leaders can have a big impact, like how Reagan's words helped people in the Soviet Union. They find hope in support from powerful figures.
  2. Trump's comments about Ukraine's president being illegitimate mirror dangerous propaganda, which is concerning. It shows a shift away from supporting freedom against oppression.
  3. Political prisoners in Russia today might feel abandoned without clear support from American leadership. Having an ally is crucial for their morale and hope.

How USAID Funded Ukraine’s Propaganda Machine. Plus. . .

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 1567 implied HN points • 19 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Media Foreign Policy Elections Civil Rights
  1. USAID has been involved in funding media in Ukraine, some of which reportedly suppress important stories, raising concerns about press freedom.
  2. There are ongoing legal battles in Hollywood, particularly between Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni, which highlight the complexities of the #MeToo movement.
  3. Recent incidents in Australia involving nurses making harmful comments highlight growing concerns about antisemitism in the country.

I Write About Israel All The Time Because I Have To, Not Because I Want To

Caitlin’s Newsletter • 2267 implied HN points • 17 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy Civil Rights Military Actions Middle East Political Commentary
  1. The situation in Gaza includes severe human rights violations and reports of torture. It's really troubling and many people feel compelled to speak out about it.
  2. Critics of Israel's actions often face accusations of antisemitism, which confuses the discussion about the state's actions with issues related to all Jewish people.
  3. Many people are frustrated with the political leaders who seem to support harmful actions against vulnerable populations, and it's important to hold them accountable regardless of their party.

The Oracle Mouths Off, Part 2

In the Writing Burrow • 6068 implied HN points • 16 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Electoral Politics Political violence Governance Civil Rights Political Movements
  1. If Trump wins, he may start targeting any Republicans who disagree with him, and even some Democrats. This could lead to a lot of conflict and violence.
  2. Trump could use the National Guard and Army for his own purposes, potentially creating a dangerous situation for those who oppose him.
  3. There's concern that leaders like Vance might have broader, more fanatical plans that could hurt many people, including women, under strict ideologies.

The Purge of the Deep State and the Road to Dictatorship

The Chris Hedges Report • 605 implied HN points • 18 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Elections Authoritarianism Civil Rights Political History Public Policy
  1. The Trump administration is pushing for a major shift in how the government operates, aiming to replace officials with their loyal supporters. This could lead to a situation where laws are only what the leaders say they are, weakening democracy.
  2. There are concerns about the increasing power of large corporations and technology companies, which could misuse personal data and control more aspects of government. This threatens both people's privacy and their rights.
  3. The rise of authoritarianism in leadership can lead to divisions in society, where dissenters face harsh repression. People are urged to resist this and hold onto their moral values, even if it seems difficult.

Eithan Haim: ‘We Took On the Federal Leviathan and We Won’

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 7410 implied HN points • 25 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Legal Healthcare Civil Rights Government Politics
  1. Dr. Eithan Haim faced serious legal trouble after exposing a children's hospital for performing gender surgeries on minors. He believed it was important to stand up against this practice.
  2. After a hard-fought battle, the charges against him were dropped by the Trump administration, allowing him to move on with his life and celebrate with his family.
  3. Despite the financial and emotional toll, Haim and his wife feel proud of their actions and believe they made the world a better place for children.

Civil Rights Are Being Destroyed Throughout The West In Service Of Israel

Caitlin’s Newsletter • 2444 implied HN points • 08 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Civil Rights International relations Political Activism Government Policy
  1. Journalists are facing serious consequences for speaking out about Israel and its actions. Some have been detained and banned for expressing opinions that are seen as critical of Israel.
  2. There is a growing pattern of civil rights being weakened across many Western countries, supposedly to protect Israel. This trend is alarming as it impacts freedom of speech.
  3. The conflict between Israelis and Palestinians is deeply rooted in a long-term agenda to displace Palestinians from their land. Many believe that recent violence has been used as a pretext for further colonization.

The Plan To Ethnically Cleanse Gaza Didn't Start With Trump

Caitlin’s Newsletter • 1816 implied HN points • 10 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Domestic Policy Foreign affairs Political Ideology Civil Rights Government Accountability
  1. The idea of removing Palestinians from Gaza isn't new and didn't start with Trump. It's been a long-standing plan that has roots going back decades.
  2. Many politicians and media outlets are pushing the narrative that this plan is a new concept, which is misleading and ignores its historical context.
  3. Democrats seem to be more focused on their feelings about political leadership than actually addressing the ongoing issues. Their actions during the Biden presidency highlight that they are not truly opposed to the injustices happening.

Will Trump Turn Gaza Into a Mideast Riviera? Plus. . .

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 1827 implied HN points • 06 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Elections Policy Foreign Relations Civil Rights
  1. Trump suggested turning Gaza into a tourist destination, but many criticized the idea, calling it a form of ethnic cleansing.
  2. Federal workers were offered a buyout option from their jobs, but many found it insulting and preferred to keep working.
  3. A new Chinese AI chatbot has raised concerns in the U.S. about losing the tech race, as it competes with American technologies despite restrictions.

Letters to the Editor: Is the National Endowment for Democracy Worth Saving?

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 319 implied HN points • 18 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Elections Policy Civil Rights Political Debate
  1. The National Endowment for Democracy (NED) has had funding issues due to a recent order affecting its budget. This has created big challenges for the organization, impacting its ability to pay staff and cover basic costs.
  2. There are mixed opinions about the NED's role, with some arguing that it helps promote democracy globally, while others believe it's ineffective or even harmful.
  3. The debate around NED highlights the tension between supporting civil society initiatives and concerns about government spending on such organizations.

Things Worth Remembering: The Zionism of Martin Luther King

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 4595 implied HN points • 19 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Civil Rights Historical Figures Social movements
  1. Martin Luther King Jr. believed that peace and security in Israel were important for democracy. He emphasized that Israel needed a sense of safety to thrive.
  2. King was known for his powerful speeches and moral courage. His words continue to inspire people to work towards justice and equality.
  3. Despite his tragic assassination, King's vision for a better future lives on. He motivated many to strive for a promised land of freedom and justice.

Christopher Caldwell: The Biggest Policy Change of the Century

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 2810 implied HN points • 28 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Policy change Affirmative Action Civil Rights Executive orders Trump administration
  1. Trump's decision to repeal affirmative action is seen as a massive shift in U.S. policy, more impactful than healthcare reforms or pandemic responses.
  2. For decades, affirmative action has been a major strategy for promoting desegregation and supporting minority rights, but it has recently faced growing criticism.
  3. Despite its significance, many mainstream news outlets are downplaying this policy change, treating it as just a minor leadership adjustment.

This is How Much America Still Hates Women

Culture Study • 28623 implied HN points • 06 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Election Analysis Gender Issues Political Commentary Social justice Civil Rights
  1. Many people in America still prefer male leaders, even if they are not competent, over qualified women. This shows a deep-rooted bias against women in politics.
  2. There is a troubling belief that women's bodies should be controlled by the state, often with men making those decisions. This reflects a dangerous mindset about women's rights and lives.
  3. Despite feeling defeated, it's important to keep fighting for a better future. Our determination and faith in change can drive progress, even in difficult times.

Trump Reveals Plan For The Ethnic Cleansing Of Gaza

Caitlin’s Newsletter • 2565 implied HN points • 26 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Foreign Policy Elections Political Commentary Civil Rights
  1. Trump has proposed relocating Palestinians from Gaza to Egypt and Jordan, which many view as a form of ethnic cleansing. This plan aligns with Israel's long-term goal to remove Palestinians from their land.
  2. Previously released documents from Israeli officials suggest that they have been strategizing for the complete removal of Gaza's population. There are intentions to eventually settle Jewish communities in the area once the population is cleared.
  3. The situation is described as forcing people to leave under terrible conditions, not as voluntary migration. The lack of aid makes it impossible for the people to stay without suffering.

DeepSeek Turns the Cold War Hot

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 1993 implied HN points • 28 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Policy change Civil Rights AI Technology Entertainment industry
  1. A Chinese AI start-up named DeepSeek has unexpectedly affected the U.S. stock market, outpacing the popular app ChatGPT with a cheaper and potentially better product.
  2. Trump has made significant changes by repealing long-standing diversity and affirmative action programs, which has stirred much debate about the impact of these policies.
  3. A movement called MAHA is emerging, led by influencers focused on health and wellness, which represents a shift in how people approach health and nutrition in America.

You can help end illegal discrimination in academia

Heterodox STEM • 249 implied HN points • 16 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Civil Rights Education Discrimination Policy Activism
  1. Discrimination in academics based on race is illegal, and institutions can lose federal funding for such practices. It is crucial for schools to treat all students equally, regardless of race.
  2. Programs that claim to be neutral might still discriminate if they are influenced by race. Institutions cannot use indirect ways to favor or disadvantage students based on their race.
  3. If you see discrimination in education, it's important to report it. You can file a complaint with the Department of Education, and there are ways to do this anonymously for safety.

The Worst Thing About The Gaza Holocaust Is Knowing It Will Happen Again

Caitlin’s Newsletter • 2072 implied HN points • 25 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy War Crimes Civil Rights Government Accountability Media Critique
  1. The death toll in Gaza is rising as bodies are discovered after the fighting. Many people have been trapped for a long time, leading to slow and painful deaths.
  2. The destruction in Gaza is described as intentional, aiming to make the area unlivable and displacing its people due to their ethnicity.
  3. There's a strong belief that the violence in Gaza will happen again, as there are no significant policy changes to prevent it and the U.S. continues to support such actions.

Immigration protests and media distrust: Everything comes back to 2020

Unreported Truths • 62 implied HN points • 10 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Media Protests Immigration Civil Rights Trust
  1. The recent immigration protests in Los Angeles are serious, but the city's size means not everywhere is affected. Media reports can downplay the situation, but it's clear there's unrest.
  2. Past media coverage during protests, especially in 2020, has led to distrust. Many felt the media downplayed violence and unrest, saying protests were mostly peaceful when that wasn't the full story.
  3. The credibility of traditional media has been damaged since 2020. Some are skeptical of their current portrayal of protests, believing that the truth is not always fully reported.

Note on the FBI

TK News by Matt Taibbi • 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.

The End of DEI? Plus. . .

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 1947 implied HN points • 23 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Policy Government Elections Civil Rights Media
  1. Trump has signed an executive order aimed at ending diversity, equity, and inclusion programs in the federal government. This move is seen by some as a return to a more merit-based approach.
  2. San Francisco is shifting towards a more practical governance style, moving away from radical ideas that previously plagued its leadership. The new board president promises to restore effective governance.
  3. The launch of meme coins like $TRUMP has raised questions about their legitimacy and potential risks, with debates on whether they're just fun investments or something more questionable.

A Zionist Onslaught Against Freedom of Speech [Part 1]

Karlstack • 380 implied HN points • 02 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Legislation Free speech Civil Rights Political Activism Government Policy
  1. Many U.S. states have passed laws that make it illegal to boycott Israel, which some people see as a threat to free speech. These laws can lead to serious penalties, even for simply expressing dissent.
  2. There have been cases where individuals faced job loss or discrimination for refusing to sign pledges relating to boycotting Israel. This includes teachers and disaster relief recipients who had to prove their loyalty.
  3. New legislation is being introduced that highlights growing restrictions on free speech, particularly around criticism of Israel. Critics argue this violates constitutional rights and threatens open discussion.

Deporting ‘Pro-Jihadist’ Students: Censorship or Good Governance?

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 779 implied HN points • 04 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Free speech Government Policy Civil Rights Student activism
  1. Trump's executive order aims to deport noncitizens who support terrorist groups. This means students who protest in favor of jihadist movements could face serious consequences.
  2. There is a debate about whether this action is a necessary step for good governance or just censorship. Two experts who usually agree on free speech strongly disagree on this topic.
  3. The situation highlights the tension between protecting national security and upholding free expression on campuses. It's a complex issue that raises important questions about rights and responsibilities.

The Rising Democratic Coalition Fell. Now What?

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 1711 implied HN points • 19 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Voting Political parties Civil Rights Demographics
  1. The Democratic Party is struggling to keep the support of minority voters, which was once a stronghold for them. Changes in the political landscape mean they can't take this loyalty for granted anymore.
  2. Many believed that the growing diversity in America would always benefit the Democrats, creating a lasting majority. However, recent election results have shown that this may not be the case.
  3. Donald Trump's political rise is challenging the Democrats to rethink and address their relationship with voters of color, prompting a need for change in strategy.

The January 6 Pardons and the Rule of Law

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 1534 implied HN points • 22 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Law Elections Political parties Civil Rights
  1. Donald Trump has pardoned many people involved in the January 6 Capitol riot, including those who assaulted police. This move has raised questions about the fairness of justice for violent actions.
  2. Some Republican leaders believe that only peaceful protesters should be pardoned, indicating a divide in opinions about accountability for violence.
  3. The mass pardoning contrasts with previous statements from officials who suggested a more selective approach to granting pardons for the events of that day.

How to fight fascism

Sex and the State • 38 implied HN points • 17 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Activism Civil Rights Free speech Censorship Fascism
  1. It's important to recognize that the fight against censorship and control often starts with marginalized groups, like sex workers, and their struggles can affect everyone. We need to unite and support each other regardless of our backgrounds.
  2. Challenging the status quo is essential, but it's also crucial to understand that real change takes time and involves understanding the complexities of existing systems. Burning everything down might not be the answer.
  3. Celebrating small acts of resistance and being true to ourselves matters. Each step we take counts, whether it's showing our identities or standing against the norm.

sunday government pool

bad cattitude • 109 implied HN points • 09 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Elections Policy Civil Rights Public Opinion
  1. Trying to make an impact in the world doesn't guarantee that others will notice or agree with you. It's important to understand that different perspectives exist.
  2. The concept of changing times suggests adaptability is key for success. Being flexible and open to new ideas can help you navigate challenges better.
  3. It can be hard to find your place in a world that has its own opinions. However, staying true to yourself is important, even when faced with disagreement from others.

Judicial Notice (10.13.24): October Surprises

Original Jurisdiction • 459 implied HN points • 13 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Judiciary Legislation Elections Campaigns Civil Rights
  1. Gentner Drummond, Oklahoma's Republican Attorney General, is pushing for a retrial in a controversial death penalty case, which has created division among state officials.
  2. The Supreme Court is looking into a key case about 'ghost guns,' with arguments taking place this week, indicating the court's interest in regulating new gun technologies.
  3. Judge Stephen Higginson from the Fifth Circuit is becoming known for his support of DACA, standing out amidst contrasting views on immigration policy within his court.

Divers subjects

Disaffected Newsletter • 1918 implied HN points • 27 Aug 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Civil Rights Government Policy Social Issues Technology impact Youth culture
  1. Many people now accept that AI can make mistakes, and they think it's normal to just ask for help later. This mindset can hurt our rights, like due process, especially when it comes to important things like licenses or voter registration.
  2. We’ve changed how we view young and old people in society, putting too much focus on the youth and not enough value on the wisdom of age. This shift has made being older seem less important and even embarrassing for some.
  3. The rise of the 'teenager' as a separate identity is a recent cultural change, and it leads to neglecting the responsibilities of nurturing and guiding younger generations instead of just letting them act out.

The Explosion of Jew-Hate in Trudeau’s Canada

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 5147 implied HN points • 11 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Antisemitism Government Public Safety Social Issues Civil Rights
  1. There has been a huge spike in antisemitic incidents in Canada, increasing by 670% recently. This alarming trend shows a significant rise in hatred and attacks against Jewish people.
  2. Many Canadian Jews feel increasingly unsafe and targeted, with feelings of victimization growing. Surveys indicate that a lot of them doubt the situation will improve anytime soon.
  3. Incidents of overt antisemitism have become more common on campuses and in communities, leading to a troubling normalization of hatred. This shift in attitudes is deeply concerning for those affected.

Who Will Buy TikTok From China? Plus. . .

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 1567 implied HN points • 14 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Civil Rights Judiciary Tech Policy Media influence Criminal Justice
  1. There is a legal case challenging Biden's transgender prison policy. A woman is arguing that sharing spaces with transgender inmates makes her feel unsafe.
  2. With a potential ban on TikTok approaching, there are talks about who might buy the platform, including possible buyers like Trump or Elon Musk.
  3. In Los Angeles, wildfires have caused many people to flee their homes, and volunteers are working hard to provide support and shelter for those affected.

New Issue Of JOHNSTONE: When Journalists Are Your Enemy, Truth Is Not Your Friend

Caitlin’s Newsletter • 628 implied HN points • 30 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Journalism Foreign Policy Free speech Media Critique Civil Rights Political Commentary
  1. Journalists can sometimes face severe consequences for questioning powerful figures, as shown by the removal of journalist Sam Husseini during a press conference.
  2. There's a growing concern over censorship and the treatment of journalists, especially those who report on sensitive topics like the Israel-Palestine conflict.
  3. The impact of wars and conflicts can be felt worldwide, tying into broader issues such as homelessness and societal well-being.

Proof of Destruction: The Musk Insurrection As It Happened (Book 1, The Musk Trilogy)

Proof • 73 implied HN points • 14 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Analysis Election Impact Government Affairs Civil Rights Democracy issues
  1. Elon Musk's actions are viewed as a serious threat to democracy, even more so than events like January 6th.
  2. The insurrection he is associated with is described as a major attack on the government since the Civil War.
  3. There is concern over the influence of unelected individuals in government and their potential to disrupt democratic processes.