The hottest Democratic Party Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
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Top U.S. Politics Topics

How the Democrats can fight back against MAGA

Noahpinion • 15764 implied HN points • 25 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Partisan Politics Political strategy Democratic Party Election Dynamics Civic engagement
  1. Democrats need to offer a clear and sensible alternative to Trump's economic policies. People are worried about inflation, and they want a plan to manage it.
  2. It's important for Democrats to protect democracy and free speech. They have to stand up against any overreach by political leaders who threaten these values.
  3. The party should move away from the divisive issues of the past decade and focus on what benefits everyone. Working towards collective goals can help regain voter trust.

Like 2008—but Better

Magic + Loss • 477 implied HN points • 01 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Public Opinion Political trends Democratic Party Campaigns
  1. Democratic excitement for the upcoming election is higher than it was in 2008, with 77% of Democrats feeling enthusiastic. This shows a strong positive shift compared to the 50% enthusiastic in 2016.
  2. The energy and enthusiasm can be seen in rallies and public engagement, indicating that this election could be pivotal.
  3. Experts believe this enthusiasm for the election is significant and might play a crucial role in the outcome.

Anti-anti-neoliberalism is also not enough

Noahpinion • 21059 implied HN points • 12 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Economic Policy Democratic Party Progressivism Neoliberalism Elections
  1. The Democratic party is currently trying to find a strong message after a big election defeat. They need a clear economic policy to connect with voters.
  2. New progressive economics is gaining support, focusing on things like healthcare subsidies, strong union support, and taxes on wealthy individuals. However, it faces criticism for not being popular enough.
  3. Despite some successes, Biden's economic policies need adjustments. It's important to learn from his administration while also being open to new ideas outside of traditional economic approaches.

Mark your calendar for my first Substack Live!

Sex and the State • 15 implied HN points • 22 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political strategy Democratic Party Political Analysis Current Events
  1. There's a live event happening on February 26th, from 11 am to noon, where guests will discuss important political topics. It's a great chance to learn about new ideas.
  2. To join the live stream, people need to download the Substack mobile app and turn on notifications. This way, they'll know when it's time to watch.
  3. The event will be discussing a new project called 'The Rebuild' which aims to bring Democrats back to core issues. It's aimed at creating a positive change in politics.

Introducing: Something

Sex and the State • 19 implied HN points • 21 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary Democratic Party Social Issues Gender Politics
  1. It's important to create content that respects and connects with all people, including those who feel left out. Everyone deserves to feel valued and heard.
  2. There is a need for better messaging and communication in political discussions, especially when addressing diverse groups. Clear communication can help bridge gaps and foster understanding.
  3. Listening to different perspectives is crucial, even if you don't fully agree. Engaging with varied opinions can lead to richer conversations and more inclusive ideas.
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Wait Til Daddy Gets Home: America's Sad, Craven, Masochistic Relationship with the Republican Party

Welcome to Garbagetown • 6904 implied HN points • 08 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary Media Analysis Political Behavior Republican party Democratic Party Elections
  1. The media often ignores the serious flaws and mistakes of conservatives while overemphasizing minor issues with liberals. This creates a skewed perception of political reality.
  2. Many Americans seem to have a troubling attachment to authoritarian figures, viewing them as 'cool dads' who can do no wrong, while they criticize more nurturing approaches as weak or annoying.
  3. There's a sense of apathy about political outcomes, as some people feel accepting negative leadership might be easier than engaging in the hard work of democratic participation and accountability.

Democrats need a billionaire strategy

Silver Bulletin • 727 implied HN points • 09 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political strategy Democratic Party Election Dynamics
  1. Democrats need a clear position on billionaires to rally voters. Mixing support and opposition won't convince people.
  2. The party risks losing touch with its base if it continues to court wealthy donors. It should focus on grassroots support instead.
  3. Being wishy-washy about billionaires and their influence can backfire. It's better to fully embrace or reject their support.

If the Democrats Want to Win, Someday They'll Need to Give People Something to Vote For

Freddie deBoer • 13335 implied HN points • 05 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Political parties Democratic Party Political strategy Ideology
  1. Democrats need to offer clear reasons for people to vote for them. If they don’t, they risk losing support from their base.
  2. Critics feel that Democrats often focus on attacking others instead of explaining their own policies. This makes it hard for voters to believe in the party.
  3. A lack of confidence and clear values from Democrats can lead to more support for extreme candidates. To change this, Democrats must embrace their beliefs and communicate them effectively.

Clintonism Lost in 2000

Freddie deBoer • 5569 implied HN points • 04 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Democratic Party Republican party Elections Political strategy Political Ideology
  1. The Democratic party often shifts to the right after losses, which doesn't help them win or provide meaningful change. This pattern has been repeating for years.
  2. Clintonism, which is a centrist approach, has failed to deliver good results, shown by Al Gore losing in 2000 despite having advantages.
  3. Republicans are better at staying true to their right-wing beliefs, while Democrats struggle to define a clear leftist agenda, contributing to an overall conservative shift in the country.

Why Democrats won't build their own Joe Rogan

Taylor Lorenz's Newsletter • 10689 implied HN points • 07 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Media Influencers Democratic Party Conservatism
  1. The right has built a strong network of influencers who promote their message, but the left lacks similar support and reach in media.
  2. Conservative content creators often receive substantial funding and institutional backing, allowing them to grow rapidly and gain credibility.
  3. The Democratic Party seems uninterested in fostering a progressive media ecosystem, making it hard for left-leaning influencers to compete.

Part I: Democrats' risk-aversion helped to re-elect Trump

Silver Bulletin • 761 implied HN points • 03 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Campaigns Political strategy Political Analysis Democratic Party
  1. Democrats were too afraid to take risks during the campaign, which may have helped Trump win again. They were in a tough position but didn't try bold strategies to change the outcome.
  2. The campaign team didn't seem to understand the general public's feelings or what would attract voters. They focused too much on internal data instead of connecting with average people.
  3. Many decisions made during the campaign failed to create excitement or clear messaging. The candidates didn't have a strong, unique vision, making it hard to draw support from undecided voters.

'Libbing out' is the latest irony-fueled coping mechanism

Taylor Lorenz's Newsletter • 3403 implied HN points • 05 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political trends Social media Youth Engagement Democratic Party
  1. Young progressives are using a term called 'libbing out' to humorously embrace mainstream Democratic politics. It's a way for them to ignore their usual cynicism and feel optimistic, even if just for a little while.
  2. 'Libbing out' is partly a reaction to feeling overwhelmed by the state of politics. People want a break from all the negativity and are choosing to focus on a more comfortable political fantasy, even if it's temporary.
  3. While 'libbing out' helps people cope, it's also critiqued as a shallow approach that doesn’t address deeper political issues. Many believe that simply supporting Democrats won't solve bigger problems in the system.

Democrats Vote Down Trans Refuge Bill In Maine After Right-Wing Attacks

Erin In The Morning • 3911 implied HN points • 26 Jan 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Legislation Transgender rights Democratic Party
  1. Maine Democrats voted down a bill to establish the state as a refuge for transgender individuals after facing right-wing attacks.
  2. The bill aimed to protect trans individuals seeking care across state lines but was criticized for its language and provisions.
  3. This rejection is notable because Maine may become the first state with both a Democratic governor and legislature to strike down such a bill.

CROSSPOST: ARCHIVES: Franklin Delano Roosevelt at the 1936 New York State Democratic Convention

Brad DeLong's Grasping Reality • 238 implied HN points • 15 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Campaigns Political History Democratic Party Republican party Political Philosophy
  1. The Republican leaders are more focused on opposing actions than actually getting things done. They claim to support the same goals but resist the efforts to achieve them.
  2. History shows that during tough times, those in power must respond with real solutions. Neglecting issues can lead to greater unrest and challenges to government.
  3. Making promises without a clear plan can be dangerous. It’s important to face the reality of social issues instead of evading them, or we risk repeating past mistakes.

DEMOCRATS ARE IN A PICKLE

TRANSFORM with Marianne Williamson • 1827 implied HN points • 11 Feb 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Democratic Party Republican party Political strategy
  1. Democrats are acknowledging concerns about President Biden's age and mental acuity more openly now after months of denial.
  2. The Biden campaign's focus on past achievements may not be enough to win over voters; a bold agenda for economic reform and new beginnings is recommended.
  3. In order to defeat Trump, Democrats need to offer a vision of a better future rather than just expecting voters to be grateful for the present.

🚨🚨🚨 Crisis Hits the Democrats

Erick Erickson's Confessions of a Political Junkie • 1918 implied HN points • 08 Feb 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Political Scandal Election Democratic Party Republican party
  1. Special Counsel report finds Biden violated the law but may evade jail due to mental state.
  2. Democrats facing crisis as Biden's mental fitness for presidency comes under scrutiny.
  3. Possibility of Biden stepping aside increases, leading to potential repercussions with Kamala Harris.

Democrats Have an Opening on Housing

I Might Be Wrong • 6 implied HN points • 19 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political strategy Housing policy Voter Engagement Democratic Party
  1. Democrats need to focus on real issues that matter to people, like the challenges of daily life. Voters want solutions that help them achieve their goals.
  2. Messages that resonate include addressing high costs and job dissatisfaction. It's important for politicians to connect with what people are really experiencing.
  3. Being honest and genuine in messaging can be a good strategy. If a message is true and addresses real concerns, it can be more effective.

Identity Politics Come From the Center, Not the Left.

JoeWrote • 252 implied HN points • 21 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory Democratic Party Identity politics Election Strategies Policy Analysis
  1. Identity politics often focuses on symbols rather than real change. It's when politicians talk a lot about supporting a group but don't actually put policies in place to help them.
  2. Centrist politicians sometimes use identity politics to appear progressive while avoiding meaningful actions. They try to win votes by using friendly language without making real changes.
  3. Instead of blaming the left for identity politics, many centrist Democrats use it as a strategy to beat more progressive candidates. They need to focus on real issues that matter to people instead of just symbolic gestures.

Democrats Could Build a Message Around Competence if We Didn’t Have DEI Stink on Us

I Might Be Wrong • 13 implied HN points • 07 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Political Messaging Democratic Party Public Policy
  1. Democrats could focus on competence as their main message to counter political opposition. This means promoting the idea that effective problem-solving is essential for government.
  2. Trump's chaotic leadership style is not beneficial for the public. Emphasizing the need for a reliable and skilled leader could resonate with voters looking for real solutions.
  3. Past discussions around hiring the best person for a job being labeled as racist may complicate the message about competence. Finding a balance in this conversation is important.

Weekend Listening: Dean Phillips on His Long-Shot White House Bid

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 2109 implied HN points • 13 Jan 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Election Democratic Party Bipartisanship
  1. Dean Phillips is running for president as a moderate Democrat to challenge the party establishment and offer an alternative to voters who feel alienated by both parties.
  2. Phillips believes in the importance of democracy and competition within the Democratic Party, criticizing the coronation of certain candidates and calling for reform.
  3. Although critical of Joe Biden's communication skills and decline, Phillips states that he will support Biden if he becomes the 2024 nominee to defeat Donald Trump.

Regrets, I have a few

Unpopular Front • 87 implied HN points • 26 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Analysis Elections Public Opinion Media Criticism Democratic Party
  1. It's important to be a leader and voice your opinions instead of just following the crowd, especially when you see issues that need addressing.
  2. Believing in the current political leadership can lead to complacency, and it's crucial to remain critical and aware of the system's flaws.
  3. Having the courage to make bold predictions and criticisms, even if they go against the grain, is necessary for true progress and understanding.

I Am Still Optimistic About 2024. Sorry.

Drezner’s World • 668 implied HN points • 08 Jan 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Democratic Party Republican party Presidential Campaigns Government Policies
  1. The author remains optimistic about the year 2024 despite current political tensions.
  2. There are concerns about the Biden administration's approach to the 2024 election, especially regarding complacency towards the threat of losing to Donald Trump.
  3. The Biden team is banking on factors like the economy, abortion rights, and negative portrayals of Trump to secure victory in the 2024 election.

Democrats Are Praying for an Open Convention

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 830 implied HN points • 11 Mar 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Election Democratic Party Political strategy
  1. Many Democrats believe Biden is doomed in the upcoming election due to his age and current polling numbers.
  2. There is a desire among some Democrats for an open convention to bring forth a younger and more dynamic nominee to lead the party.
  3. Several potential candidates, including governors and Senators, are being considered to replace Biden, with varying levels of enthusiasm and skepticism.

Transcript: John B. Judis and Ruy Teixeira

Lean Out with Tara Henley • 491 implied HN points • 11 Jan 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Political Realignment Working Class Democratic Party Political Divides
  1. In the 2016 US election, Trump won over working-class voters with his focus on economic issues like job loss and trade, not just racism and immigration.
  2. There's a significant political divide in America between metro areas and rural/mid-size towns, with working-class voters shifting towards the Republican party.
  3. The Democratic party's shift towards neoliberal economics and cultural radicalism has alienated the working class, particularly as the influence of the labor movement declined.

In a Deep-Blue City, Will Locals Get Tough on Crime?

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 677 implied HN points • 04 Mar 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Crime Progressives Election Democratic Party Policies
  1. The city of Austin, Texas is facing a surge in crime rates, with concerns over the progressive criminal justice reforms led by District Attorney José Garza.
  2. The upcoming Democratic primary race for District Attorney in Austin will determine the future of criminal justice policies, with moderate candidate Jeremy Sylestine challenging Garza's progressive agenda.
  3. There is a divide among Austin residents, with some supporting Garza's approach of reducing incarceration and addressing root causes of crime, while others criticize him for leniency towards criminals and lack of justice for victims.

With friends like this…..

Inside-Out, political commentary from Philip Stephens • 314 implied HN points • 10 Feb 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary Presidential Election Media Criticism Democratic Party
  1. Speculation about the contest between Joe Biden and Donald Trump might end before November, as Trump's dishonesty catches up with him.
  2. Many self-identifying progressives seem determined to see Trump win, as they target Biden's age instead of Trump's concerning behavior.
  3. Media's relentless focus on Biden's age may influence the public perception, potentially affecting the election outcome.

A Postmortem, of sorts

Unpopular Front • 33 implied HN points • 15 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Analysis Elections Democratic Party Political Commentary Current affairs
  1. The author discusses problems faced by the Democratic Party. They believe there are significant issues that need to be addressed for future success.
  2. The title of the piece was intended to be different but was changed, showing that writers often have little control over how their work is presented.
  3. The author's thoughts on the situation are ongoing and they plan to share more insights in the future.

Diss at your peril

A User's Guide to History • 176 implied HN points • 08 Feb 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Populism Democratic Party Working Class Political participation Presidential elections
  1. Historical populism was driven not just by economic distress but also by status anxiety and feelings of disdain from urban elites.
  2. The alienation of different demographic groups from the Democratic party led to a shift in political affiliations.
  3. Political participation is not just about policy but also about belonging and feeling respected within a party.

Where Have the Good Oligarchs Gone?

God's Spies by Thomas Neuburger • 55 implied HN points • 24 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory Oligarchy Democratic Party Influence Policy
  1. The real Left opposes the idea of the rich ruling over everyone else. If they don't get rid of the oligarchs, true self-rule won't happen.
  2. Oligarchs are gaining more power, especially with political figures like Donald Trump. This shift is concerning for democracy.
  3. Some political groups appear to embrace certain wealthy individuals, calling them 'good billionaires.' The actual Left wants to challenge and limit the power of all oligarchs, not just pick favorites.

Can Democrats Be 'People-First' If Their Campaigns Value People Last?

theconnector • 294 implied HN points • 18 Jul 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Campaigns Democratic Party Voter Behavior Fundraising
  1. Democratic campaigns need to prioritize human connections over dehumanizing marketing tactics.
  2. Engaging volunteers authentically and building relationships can lead to more effective and meaningful voter outreach.
  3. The traditional marketing approach in campaigns may backfire, highlighting the need for a shift towards relational organizing.

How Democrats Sold Out The Working Class

Public • 337 implied HN points • 12 Jan 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Working Class Democratic Party Political strategy
  1. The Democratic Party has shifted away from its traditional working-class base towards college-educated professionals.
  2. This shift has resulted in a loss of support from the white working class, impacting electoral outcomes.
  3. Analyzing past successes like Louisiana Governor John Bel Edwards could offer insights on how Democrats can rebuild their broad coalition.

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.

'Who Is a Democrat?' Revisited

God's Spies by Thomas Neuburger • 45 implied HN points • 10 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Analysis Democratic Party Electoral Politics Political theory
  1. Many people believe they are part of the Democratic Party, but actual membership is very limited. Only a small group has real power, while most voters have little influence.
  2. The Democratic Party has a complex structure, with layers of power that include voters, consultants, and those in authority. This affects how decisions are made.
  3. Even those on the left feel included in the Democratic Party's support structure, but they can't guide or influence its direction effectively. This creates a disconnect between grassroots supporters and party leaders.