The hottest Corruption Substack posts right now

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

The Mafia State

The Chris Hedges Report • 575 implied HN points • 15 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Economy Corruption Environment Society
  1. The current economic system is leading to great inequality, where the rich get richer while many others suffer. This creates a 'mafia state' that prioritizes the wealthy and exploits the rest.
  2. The degradation of environmental and social protections is harmful to everyone. Decisions being made today are damaging the planet and the well-being of many people.
  3. Reforming this system is not enough; systemic change is needed. Collective action and new ideas for social structure can help address these deep-rooted issues.

Corruption and COVID: We Are Not ‘All In This Together’

The New Normal • 3439 implied HN points • 23 Feb 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Corruption Government Accountability Justice System
  1. To blame ourselves for decisions made by a few individuals is to submit to their rule.
  2. Calls to 'blame our own governments' may underestimate the chance of seeking justice for policy decisions.
  3. Corruption makes actions criminal if influenced by outside interests; personal responsibility can be used to evade scrutiny.

Rwanda: Nothing makes sense

Striking 13 • 2256 implied HN points • 08 Dec 23
🌍 World Politics Policy Legislation Reality Asylum Corruption
  1. Rwanda's political landscape is characterized by logical inconsistency and contradictions, leading to illogical decisions and actions.
  2. The backlog in asylum cases in the UK is primarily due to policy issues like lack of processing, rather than the number of asylum seekers arriving.
  3. The legislation regarding Rwanda in the UK defies reality and tries to legislate people's perceptions, representing a departure from empirical reality toward a denial of it.

America 2.0: Taxation Without Representation

donaldjeffries • 1434 implied HN points • 06 Feb 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Legislation Corruption Elections Representation
  1. The concept of term limits for politicians is important to prevent career politicians from holding office indefinitely.
  2. The legislative branch of government in the United States has historically ceded power to the judicial and executive branches.
  3. There is a call for more representation diversity in Congress to better serve the interests of the common people.
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DOGE and the budget audit of doom

bad cattitude • 462 implied HN points • 03 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Policy Corruption Economy Public Spending
  1. The new players in Washington are determined to shake things up, working outside the old systems to create real change. Expect to see major shifts in government operation due to their influence.
  2. Government agencies are overwhelmed and struggling to maintain control as corruption and inefficiency are exposed. The push for more transparency means many hidden layers of mismanagement could be revealed.
  3. Without accountability for spending, many federal programs and jobs could be cut. The focus will shift to ensuring that taxpayer money is used properly, potentially cleaning up long-standing issues.

Eric Adams Doomed Himself

Political Currents by Ross Barkan • 17 implied HN points • 11 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Governance Corruption Political parties Public Opinion
  1. Eric Adams avoided corruption charges after the Trump administration dropped them, but this does not improve his popularity. Many people in New York still do not like him.
  2. Adams' political future is uncertain, with slim chances of winning the next Democratic primary. He has to think about other options if he wants to stay in politics.
  3. Despite this drop in charges, Adams may still struggle since his reputation is damaged and he's unlikely to get support from major parties or donors.

A march on Washington, a death in Venezuela, and a watch on the German border

The Pillar • 1395 implied HN points • 19 Jan 24
🌍 World Politics Activism Leadership Corruption Religion Legal issues
  1. Today, Jan. 19, is the March for Life in Washington, DC, which remains significant despite shifts in activism focus.
  2. The death of Kenyan priest Fr. Josiah K’Okal in Venezuela raises suspicions of foul play due to his advocacy for indigenous rights.
  3. Pope Francis issued new financial regulations for the Vatican, showing a response to past scandals and a shift in authority.

Lolitas and A-Listers on Epstein's Fantasy Island

donaldjeffries • 1415 implied HN points • 09 Jan 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Scandals Celebrities Corruption Justice
  1. The imminent release of the list containing prominent names who flew on Jeffrey Epstein's 'Lolita Express' has caused a stir.
  2. Many big names in entertainment, including female celebrities, have been linked to Epstein's activities.
  3. The Epstein scandal raises questions about accountability and the power dynamics that shield the elite from justice.

Why are we badly governed?

In My Tribe • 1032 implied HN points • 27 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Public Policy Political parties Elections Corruption
  1. Governments often choose leaders based on their ability to navigate politics rather than their skills in managing and delivering results. This leads to poor governance because the focus is not on actually solving problems.
  2. Unlike businesses that need to perform to survive, governments tend to take on too many roles and rarely stop doing something, even if it is not effective. This makes them inefficient and less effective.
  3. Limitations in government activities can lead to better governance. Businesses succeed by focusing on a few things they do well, while governments often try to do everything without a clear focus, leading to clumsiness.

What Makes Sense at This Point?

Daniel Pinchbeck’s Newsletter • 21 implied HN points • 29 May 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political issues Government Corruption Public Opinion Social justice
  1. Finding personal peace and fulfillment can coexist with feelings of guilt about the world's suffering. It's important to acknowledge both inner happiness and external chaos.
  2. The world seems to be filled with corruption and distraction, especially among younger generations. People may feel lost while they are captivated by screens.
  3. Reflecting on one's purpose in life can bring feelings of anxiety and the desire for validation. Everyone has their own unique journey, even if it feels unconventional.

The Hamas Mafia

Diane Francis • 1738 implied HN points • 27 Nov 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Terrorism Corruption International relations Middle East
  1. Hamas leaders live a lavish lifestyle far from the conflict, while they exploit the people of Gaza for their own wealth. They collect taxes on smuggled goods and skim donations meant for the needy.
  2. The unemployment rate in Gaza is extremely high, and most people live in poverty. Despite winning elections in 2007, Hamas has not delivered on promises of better living conditions, but instead, they persist in conflict.
  3. Hamas operates like a criminal organization, focusing on financial gain through warfare and corruption. Their actions harm the very people they claim to represent, and the global community needs to take action against these corrupt regimes.

New Orleans is America

The J. Burden Show • 1218 implied HN points • 18 Jan 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Crime Leadership Foreign Policy Corruption Justice
  1. New Orleans is described as a city with a mix of beauty, dysfunction, and high crime rates, showcasing both its allure and challenges.
  2. The post discusses the city's leadership issues, particularly critiquing the mayor and suggesting the need for a strong leader who can tackle crime and corruption.
  3. There is a call for a transformative leader, likened to a Caesar figure, who can address law enforcement, foreign policy, and societal issues with a tough but just approach.

DOGE due diligence at treasury

bad cattitude • 314 implied HN points • 12 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Transparency Corruption Law Finance
  1. Since 1946, U.S. presidents and their advisors haven't had access to the government's payment system. This lack of transparency has been a long-standing issue.
  2. Many former treasury secretaries are upset about attempts to make the payment system more visible. They believe this openness threatens the way things have always been done.
  3. There's a push for greater auditing and transparency in government spending. People want to hold officials accountable and make sure tax dollars are spent properly.

RFK Jr. gives a Pro-vaccine MD a lesson at a Town Hall

An Insult to Intuition • 2063 implied HN points • 29 Jun 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Vaccines Science Epidemiology Philosophy Corruption
  1. RFK Jr. highlighted the difference between believing and knowing in the discussion about vaccines.
  2. The lack of long-term, placebo-controlled safety studies on childhood vaccines was brought to light by Kennedy.
  3. The conversation revealed a reliance on trust over critical thinking when it comes to vaccine safety and testing.

More Memorable Passages From "The Man Without A Face"

Astral Codex Ten • 6194 implied HN points • 04 Aug 23
🌍 World Politics Russian Politics Activism Corruption Media influence Political Campaigns
  1. During the fall of the Soviet Union, activists creatively countered authorities by using lemons to silence a brass band.
  2. Corrupt officials, including Vladimir Putin, diverted imported meat from Leningrad to Moscow leading up to a failed coup.
  3. US politicians have cute personal stories to humanize, but Putin's lack of reaction to his dog's death reflects his impervious exterior.

Biden Administration Implicated In Brazilian Court’s Attack On Congressman Fighting Censorship And Corruption

Michael Shellenberger • 923 implied HN points • 16 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Free speech Corruption Censorship Political Power Legal issues
  1. A Brazilian congressman named Marcel Van Hattem is facing an investigation for speaking out against censorship and corruption. This marks a worrying trend of increased government control over free speech in Brazil.
  2. Van Hattem is well-known for exposing government corruption and has gathered a significant following on social media. His popularity highlights the public's desire for transparency and free expression.
  3. The investigation against Van Hattem challenges the tradition of protecting congressional speech in Brazil. Legal experts have raised concerns, suggesting this move could backlash against the government and strengthen demands for accountability.

DOGE: Dangerous Oligarchs Grab Everything

Can We Still Govern? • 433 implied HN points • 20 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Governance Public Policy Political Influence Democracy Corruption
  1. There is growing concern that wealthy individuals are gaining too much power, which threatens democracy and fairness in society. People are worried about how this could affect basic rights and opportunities for everyone.
  2. A group known as DOGE is seen as being run by billionaires who oppose government regulations while benefiting from government contracts. This raises questions about their accountability and the real intentions behind their actions.
  3. DOGE aims to use social media to sway public opinion and cut government programs, relying on a powerful media presence. Many believe this could lead to unpopular decisions that are masked as necessary reforms, potentially undermining important social services.

There’s Nothing More Corrupting Than Flying Private

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 681 implied HN points • 03 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Corruption Elite Political Influence Travel Philanthropy
  1. Flying on a private plane can disconnect people from everyday experiences and reality. It's like stepping away from the human connection that comes with regular travel.
  2. Owning or using a private plane can change a person's behavior and priorities, leading to a loss of moral grounding.
  3. The associations and connections made through private travel, especially with controversial figures, can highlight deeper issues of influence and corruption in society.

Must we have these institutions forever?

Something to Consider • 139 implied HN points • 10 Jul 24
📖 Philosophy Institutions Trust Corruption Development Colonialism
  1. Our institutions and rules affect how well a society can produce and grow. Good institutions help foster trust among people, while bad ones can keep societies trapped in poverty.
  2. The legacy of harmful practices, like the slave trade, has long-lasting effects on trust and cooperation in societies. Areas that were heavily affected tend to have less trust even today.
  3. Changing poor institutions can help lift countries out of poverty. This might involve outside help or imposing better rules that foster cooperation and trust among the people.

The Most Corrupt Country in the History of the World

donaldjeffries • 1592 implied HN points • 03 Jun 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Corruption Tyranny Free speech Civil Liberties Inequality
  1. Many Americans still believe in American exceptionalism, but the reality may indicate otherwise.
  2. The level of tyranny and corruption in America has reached surreal levels, possibly surpassing the repressive regimes of the past.
  3. The current state of America is described as exceptionally corrupt, tyrannical, and incompetent, challenging the notions of freedom and democracy.

Populism is winning all over the World. The Evidence

Welcome to Absurdistan • 1474 implied HN points • 08 Jul 23
🌍 World Politics Populism Government Policies Economic Shifts Corruption International relations
  1. Populism is gaining traction worldwide, as evidenced by recent events and shifts in power.
  2. Corporations and media outlets are facing resistance and pushback from a growing populist movement.
  3. There is a significant movement towards change and opposition to established systems and norms.

unpardonable pardons

bad cattitude • 291 implied HN points • 20 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Government Policy Law Corruption
  1. The pardoning of individuals related to January 6 raises serious concerns about justice and accountability. It seems to give a free pass to those who may have acted unlawfully while in power.
  2. A dangerous precedent is set when political figures can use pardons to avoid consequences for their actions. This undermines trust in the system and holds the potential for abuse of power.
  3. Despite the pardons, there's still a chance to pursue the truth by calling on those involved to testify. They could face new charges for lying, which might encourage honesty and accountability moving forward.

Medicine is becoming more corrupt

Vinay Prasad's Observations and Thoughts • 184 implied HN points • 04 Nov 24
🏥 Health Politics Corruption Pharma University Research Ethics Healthcare access
  1. Medicine is being influenced by money from pharmaceutical companies, which can lead to biased practices. This means that decisions in healthcare might prioritize profit over patient care.
  2. Big donations to universities can result in naming rights and influence, creating a potential conflict of interest. This raises questions about the integrity and independence of academic institutions.
  3. There's a concern that this trend towards corruption could compromise the quality of medical research and education. Without accountability, the focus might shift away from ethical standards and patient welfare.

HOISTED FROM THE ARCHIVES FROM 1998: Robber Barons

Brad DeLong's Grasping Reality • 207 implied HN points • 15 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Wealth Inequality Capitalism Political Influence Economic History Corruption
  1. Wealth in the economy often concentrates in the hands of a few people, often called billionaires. Their success can depend on timing, connections, and sometimes political favors.
  2. Historically, periods of high wealth concentration have not always led to faster economic growth. Curbs on wealth accumulation can actually coexist with healthy economic performance.
  3. The past presence of 'robber barons' and their role in building infrastructure shows that their success often involved corruption and manipulation, but they also contributed significantly to the nation's development.

Organ trafficking: a deadly trade

Julie Bindel's podcasts and writing • 668 implied HN points • 27 Jan 24
🌍 World Politics Human Rights Justice Corruption
  1. Organ trafficking is a growing global trade due to a demand for organs and a lack of legitimate sources.
  2. Victims of organ trafficking can be kidnapped, forced, or tricked into giving up organs, with children often being targeted.
  3. Illegal organ harvesting operations can involve violence, manipulation, and even murder to obtain organs for sale on the black market.

Fall of the House of Trumpenstein

donaldjeffries • 1238 implied HN points • 20 Mar 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics News Politics Corruption Election Justice
  1. News is breaking that Donald Trump may be arrested in New York which has raised several questions
  2. Donald Trump's presidency triggered strong reactions from both supporters and opponents, causing division in the country
  3. The situation with Trump facing arrest is seen as a symbolic moment reflecting bigger issues of corruption and justice in the political system

Biden and Trump in Wonderland

donaldjeffries • 1218 implied HN points • 04 Aug 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Impeachment Election Political parties Corruption
  1. Donald Trump faces indictment for questioning election results, while Democrats are free to make similar allegations without consequences.
  2. The justice system appears biased when it comes to prosecuting individuals based on their political affiliations.
  3. Impeachment processes and legal actions seem to be influenced by partisanship and do not always reflect the seriousness of alleged offenses.

The Cartels Have Been Sent to Kill Us – They are allied with Corporate Fascists, Greens, the Hard Left and the CCP.

Welcome to Absurdistan • 1218 implied HN points • 25 Jun 23
🌍 World Politics Corruption Crime Government Activism
  1. The city of Vancouver has experienced a disturbing transformation over the years, falling victim to crime, drugs, human trafficking, and corruption.
  2. The infiltration of the CCP in Canada poses a significant threat, leading to criminal activities like drug trafficking and violence.
  3. The rise of cartels in cities can be linked to the collapse of resource economies and the influence of groups like corporate fascists and hard-left activists.

Let’s talk politics

Splattern • 79 implied HN points • 21 Jul 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Corruption International relations Political Influence Voting Rights
  1. Tanzanians often feel disconnected from their politics, seeing their president as somewhat irrelevant, while they look to foreign influences for real change.
  2. People in developing countries, like Tanzania, see the U.S. president as more impactful in their lives than their own leaders, which shows the global influence America holds.
  3. Voter participation is crucial in the U.S. elections, as every vote counts towards the future and can help push for voting reform, making each citizen's voice significant.

The Putin Kleptocracy

Diane Francis • 839 implied HN points • 30 Nov 23
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics Corruption Natural resources Russian Politics
  1. Putin has built a powerful system in Russia that's very wealthy and focused on military strength. He controls a lot of valuable resources, more than anyone else in the world.
  2. The amount of money Putin has is staggering, making him the richest person by some estimates, even though he isn't listed as a billionaire anywhere. Most Russian billionaires are actually just working for him.
  3. This huge amount of wealth allows Putin to have a lot of influence over world affairs and wars, showing how money can shape power and control in the world.