The hottest Election Analysis Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
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Top U.S. Politics Topics

The Saturday Read: The velvet curtain

The Saturday Read • 119 implied HN points • 02 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Election Analysis Political culture Populism Party Dynamics Geopolitics
  1. The rise of pop political movements, like MAGA and Thatcherism, show that they can reshape party identity and power dynamics in profound ways. This isn't just a short-term trend; it's likely to stick around.
  2. There's a real worry about the growing alignment of countries in the Brics group, which could change how global politics work. Many leaders aren't addressing this potential shift, leaving concerns about balance of power.
  3. North Korea sending troops to help Russia in Ukraine raises alarms, especially for neighboring countries like South Korea. It's a reminder of how tensions can escalate and lead to a larger conflict.

The Garbage Comment

Erick Erickson's Confessions of a Political Junkie • 1318 implied HN points • 30 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary Election Analysis Public Opinion Media Criticism Political strategy
  1. Biden called Trump supporters 'garbage', which upset many people and created a bit of chaos in the White House.
  2. A lot of voters, only 28%, think the country is going in the right direction, which is low for an incumbent party.
  3. Instead of sharing their plans to improve things, Biden and some of Harris's supporters are focusing on negative comments about Trump supporters.

SHOW NOTES: JMart Reaches For the Towel; Ignoring Biden

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

The Press Covers for Harris Again

Erick Erickson's Confessions of a Political Junkie • 2557 implied HN points • 15 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Media bias Political Coverage Election Analysis Public Opinion Political Commentary
  1. The media often protects certain politicians, like Kamala Harris, and downplays their mistakes. This makes many people distrust the press.
  2. There are significant discrepancies in how the media covers stories about politicians from different parties. Some issues are treated as major scandals for Republicans but barely mentioned for Democrats.
  3. Many reporters seem to have a bias towards the left and don't show much interest in understanding or presenting views outside their own beliefs.

Blame the Right-Wing Noise Machine, Not the Facts on the Ground, for Voters' Dismay About the Economy

Brad DeLong's Grasping Reality • 338 implied HN points • 16 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Election Analysis Economic Policy Media influence Public Perception
  1. Voters are unhappy about the economy, but it's mainly because they are influenced by misinformation from certain media sources. The reality of the economy isn't as bad as many believe.
  2. The official statistics show a certain level of unemployment and underemployment, but this has always been a part of the economic landscape. People misunderstand these numbers and feel worse than the data suggests.
  3. Many believe the economy is struggling due to flawed statistics, but this misunderstanding has been constant. The data doesn't paint a complete picture of people's real experiences in the job market.
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Judith Butler with a Pretty Damn Good Indictment of Identity Politics!

Freddie deBoer • 12623 implied HN points • 17 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Identity politics Election Analysis Political critique Social justice
  1. The election results suggest that identity politics didn't cost Democrats the vote. Voters were more concerned about issues like the economy and immigration.
  2. People get frustrated when they're talked down to, and this negativity can hurt political movements. It's important to engage people without making them feel judged.
  3. Criticism of identity politics isn't just from the right; many thinkers on the left have also raised valid concerns. There's a need for honest reflection on how these ideas have shaped recent political events.

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’s Back. What Now?

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 2295 implied HN points • 21 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Events Election Analysis Policy Changes Leadership Government actions
  1. Trump's second inauguration was marked by dramatic actions, including pardoning people linked to the January 6 Capitol riot and bold proposals like taking back the Panama Canal.
  2. His inaugural speech focused on a national revival linked to his comeback, promising to address issues like immigration and inflation while rejecting political norms.
  3. There's an ongoing debate about TikTok's future and whether Trump will uphold the law in light of Congress's moves against the app, as he contrasts with the legal expectations set by his predecessor.

I Wish Trump Supporters Would Just Throw Us The Occasional Bone Over The Next Few Years

Singal-Minded • 660 implied HN points • 31 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary Trump administration Election Analysis Government Policies Cultural Issues
  1. There is a strong divide between Trump supporters and those who oppose him, and it seems difficult to bridge that gap. Many people feel uneasy about the extreme loyalty Trump receives from his supporters.
  2. Unlike how critics discuss Biden and Harris, Trump's actions and comments often go without much criticism from his supporters, who tend to protect him more fiercely.
  3. Trump's blame for recent incidents on diversity requirements reflects his ongoing opposition to DEI initiatives, which some believe can overshadow genuine discussions about hiring practices. It's a complex conversation that needs clarity.

The Good News is Fascists Always Fail

JoeWrote • 118 implied HN points • 25 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory Political Movements Election Analysis Public Opinion Policy Impact
  1. Fascism is a reactionary ideology that often seeks to return to a past that never really existed. This means it usually fails because it can't truly solve today's problems.
  2. Politicians like Trump might get attention by blaming others for issues, but they struggle to deliver real solutions once in power. Their promises often lead to disappointment among supporters.
  3. Despite the fear around fascist movements, they can ultimately collapse because they don't offer genuine plans for the future. People are beginning to recognize when their needs aren't being met.

Virtue Hoarders and the Rejection of Liberalism (w/ Catherine Liu) | The Chris Hedges Report

The Chris Hedges Report • 168 implied HN points • 13 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory Labor Issues Election Analysis Cultural critique
  1. The professional managerial class (PMC) often ignores the real needs of the working class while focusing on virtue signaling. Instead of addressing issues that affect everyday workers, they get caught up in cultural fights.
  2. There is a growing disconnect between political elites and the realities faced by average Americans. Many politicians prioritize polls and focus groups over genuine conversations with the public.
  3. A strong sense of anti-authoritarianism and a desire for grassroots change exists in America. With the right focus, this discontent could unite people around common goals that benefit the working class.

Best of The Free Press: Don’t Lie

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 2448 implied HN points • 24 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Media Ethics Political History Election Analysis Political narratives
  1. Honesty is crucial in journalism, and it helps build trust. People prefer straightforward reporting over being misled or given spin.
  2. There has been a dangerous trend where some journalists prioritize their agendas over truth. This shift has hurt the credibility of the media.
  3. Understanding and sticking to the truth matters now more than ever. Good journalism can counteract the lies and misinformation that spread in society.

Shut up about masculinity

Jeff Giesea • 758 implied HN points • 29 Sep 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Gender Issues Political Discourse Social Dynamics Cultural critique Election Analysis
  1. Masculinity is a big topic right now, but we might be focusing on it too much, especially during the election. It makes sense to consider why this obsession exists and if it's helpful.
  2. There are two main views on masculinity: some believe it's being attacked and needs to be defended, while others think it's outdated and needs to be redefined. Both sides have good points, but extremes in either direction can cause problems.
  3. Instead of tearing down masculinity or rejecting it, we should understand and nurture it while allowing people to be themselves. Finding balance and context for masculinity and femininity can lead to healthier discussions.

We Are Losers

Singal-Minded • 3790 implied HN points • 06 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political movement Election Analysis Voter Behavior Campaign Strategy Political Commentary
  1. The anti-Trump movement is not working as it should; many think it needs a complete overhaul. People involved have gotten too caught up in their own beliefs and are not effectively addressing voters' real concerns.
  2. Despite being passionate against Trump, many in this movement are losing sight of what truly matters to average voters. They may feel strongly about their views, but those feelings are not resonating with most Americans.
  3. Instead of focusing on who to blame for their failures, the anti-Trump movement should rethink their approach. They need to attract more realistic and relatable voices to have a better chance at winning in the future.

What Is To Be Done? Chronicling Our Future, as It Is Being Built.

Breaking the News • 1564 implied HN points • 23 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Civic engagement Media Landscape Election Analysis Democratic Values Policy Changes
  1. People are actively thinking and organizing for a better America after the recent election. They are focused on community-driven efforts and finding ways to reconnect with each other.
  2. A lot of initiatives are happening at the state and local levels, rather than just in Washington, D.C. It's these grassroots movements that often lead to real change.
  3. Learning from history is key. Past movements show that big changes come from the bottom up, and citizens working together can create a positive shift in the national mood.

Oh No, Now The US Will Have A President Who Does Bad Things

Caitlin’s Newsletter • 2323 implied HN points • 07 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Election Analysis Political Commentary Party Politics Civil Rights
  1. Democrats often seem to ignore the harm they've caused, focusing on fears of future bad leadership instead. They have a history of inaction while criticizing others.
  2. There's a belief that both political parties are more similar than they let on. Both sides cater to the wealthy and powerful, keeping the status quo intact.
  3. People on the left may express more genuine concerns about morality, while others seem to care more about their image than taking a stand against wrongdoing.

The Ben Shapiro "Honesty" Hustle

Slack Tide by Matt Labash • 203 implied HN points • 15 May 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary Election Analysis Media Critique Political Ethics Trump administration
  1. Donald Trump is often seen as a conman who focuses on personal gain rather than the needs of his supporters. Many people find it ironic that he seeks luxury, like a $400 million private jet, while his followers struggle financially.
  2. Ben Shapiro, a prominent right-wing commentator, has sometimes pointed out Trump’s wrongdoings. However, he continues to support Trump despite these criticisms, which raises questions about his integrity.
  3. The Republican Party has shifted under Trump's influence, seemingly moving away from traditional values to support his more questionable actions, leading to a perception of corruption within the party.

The Ballad of Ron and Nikki

Bulwark+ • 8431 implied HN points • 22 Jan 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Election Analysis Republican party Political Analysis Crime Statistics
  1. The 2024 Republican primary campaign illustrated strong motivated reasoning in predicting Donald Trump as the nominee.
  2. Basic lies from political actors should not be normalized by the media, and accountability is crucial in political analysis.
  3. The 'Biden crime problem' actually began under Trump, and recent data shows a decline in violent crime rates.

Rhinos All The Way Down

Bulwark+ • 7291 implied HN points • 12 Jan 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Trump administration Political corruption Republican party Election Analysis Political Extremism
  1. Republican leaders continue to support Trump despite alarming behavior, leading to a disturbing transformation in the political landscape
  2. The comparison to absurdist literature suggests a prophetic quality in the current political climate
  3. The metaphor of 'rhinos all the way down' reflects the deepening entrenchment in supporting controversial figures

Who is allowed to practice identity politics?

Can We Still Govern? • 805 implied HN points • 10 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Identity politics Political strategy Election Analysis Media Critique
  1. Kamala Harris did not campaign on identity politics, even though many critics claim she did. Her campaign focused more on economic issues and policies rather than solely on identity-related topics.
  2. Donald Trump did use identity politics in his campaign by targeting specific groups negatively. He often painted immigrants and other marginalized groups as threats, which resonated with certain voter bases.
  3. The media tends to label identity politics as only a left-wing issue, ignoring how right-wing politics also play on group identities, especially among white Christian nationalists.

Donald Trump and the Decivilizing of the Right

Richard Hanania's Newsletter • 1975 implied HN points • 17 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Conservatism Political culture Election Analysis Trumpism
  1. American conservatism is changing in a way that some people compare to third world movements. This shift involves less focus on traditional values.
  2. The concept of 'Elite Human Capital' is about understanding who is crucial for maintaining strong institutions, not just about being smart. It suggests that even those who aren’t traditionally regarded as intelligent can still be valuable in certain roles.
  3. The flaws in the Trump movement highlight the importance of character and truth in political movements. When a political group idolizes someone who goes against these values, it signals a deeper issue within the movement.

Chartbook 331: 46 in medias res - A mosaic of the Biden administration.

Chartbook • 743 implied HN points • 05 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Biden administration Political Economy Foreign Policy Domestic Policy Election Analysis
  1. The Biden administration's time in office is seen as limited, with many questioning its place in history and legacy. It seems to be moving towards a significant change after one term.
  2. The administration faced various challenges, including obstacles to its policies, which highlighted the need for balance in its approach to both domestic and foreign issues.
  3. As tensions with China increase and significant decisions around issues like climate and economic policy continue, the Biden presidency is grappling with its role in a changing global landscape.

Announcing: Book on Elite Human Capital

Richard Hanania's Newsletter • 2145 implied HN points • 25 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory Election Analysis Human Capital Trump administration Cultural Issues
  1. The author is working on a book about Elite Human Capital, which aims to explore the differences in leadership and capabilities between groups with high and low human capital.
  2. The book will consist of both revised previous work and new content, with a focus on explaining why understanding human capital is important in today's polarized society.
  3. Current political events tie into the book's themes, highlighting how low human capital can influence leadership choices and decisions in government.

On the Tory Cult of Personality and its Consequences

Wrong Side of History • 322 implied HN points • 06 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Immigration Policy Political culture Nationalism Election Analysis
  1. The UK implemented open borders, which some believe was planned rather than accidental. Brexit provided a reason to change immigration policies.
  2. The previous government's approach to immigration seemed to be based on short-term goals and a belief that immigration was positive.
  3. Boris Johnson's leadership style appeared to be influenced by a desire for approval from elite groups, rather than focusing on nationalist policies.

Are You Charismatic Or Charming?

The Ruffian • 460 implied HN points • 16 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Election Analysis Public Figures
  1. Charisma and charm are different. Charisma makes someone seem larger than life, while charm makes them relatable and friendly.
  2. Political figures can succeed with either style, but they should stick to what suits them best. Trying too hard to switch styles can backfire.
  3. It's helpful to know if you are more charismatic or charming, as this can guide your interactions and relationships both personally and professionally.

Nyhetsbrev steigan.no 25.02.2025

steigan.no • 6 implied HN points • 25 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Election Analysis International relations Political Commentary Geopolitics Legislation
  1. The idea of a united European state is gaining traction among military experts. They believe it would help Europe defend against threats from superpowers like the USA, Russia, and China.
  2. Ukraine's parliament recently refused to extend President Zelensky's term, which raises questions about his legitimacy and support in the country.
  3. A lawsuit against Merck highlights serious concerns about the Gardasil vaccine, with allegations that the company misled the public about its safety and side effects.

Saturday Commentary and Review #182

Fisted by Foucault • 140 implied HN points • 29 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations Election Analysis Political theory Social movements Government Policy
  1. Europe is facing a tough time with the rise of far-right politics, and things might get worse as economic problems grow. Many traditional left-wing parties are losing support and influence.
  2. The U.S. is in a strong global position as it hands off power to Trump, with a focus on maintaining military support for Ukraine in the ongoing conflict with Russia.
  3. In Georgia, political tensions are high with protests ongoing after a controversial election. The new president has divided opinions, and many are calling for a rerun of the elections.

the democratic joe rogan

bad cattitude • 357 implied HN points • 09 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary Election Analysis Media influence Public Opinion Identity politics
  1. The left is struggling with a lack of humor, thought diversity, and genuine connection, making it hard to attract new supporters. It often resorts to strict ideological tests that push people away.
  2. Many former left-leaning individuals feel alienated as the party has become more extreme, pushing them to seek alternatives. This shift has created frustration and led to a sense of disconnection with the mainstream.
  3. There is a desire for authenticity and genuine conversation in politics. People are tired of fake interactions and want leaders who can ask tough questions and speak honestly, rather than sticking to scripted, safe narratives.

The Future, Now and Then: 2024 in review

The Future, Now and Then • 72 implied HN points • 31 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Election Analysis Political Commentary Media Critique Social media Current Events
  1. The author has been regularly writing a newsletter for two and a half years, and their audience has grown significantly. It's important to celebrate growth and consistency in writing.
  2. In 2024, topics covered included technology and political commentary, highlighting issues like the rise of Bluesky and criticism of university administrations. These topics engage readers and reflect current events.
  3. The author plans to shift focus in early 2025 to finish a book manuscript, but will still share thoughts on current events in the newsletter. Transitioning goals can bring new opportunities in writing.

Voters fed up with foreign entanglements were justifiably repulsed by the Democrats, even if Trump and the Republicans are a sham

Michael Tracey • 138 implied HN points • 12 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Voting Trends Foreign Policy Political parties Government Policy Election Analysis
  1. Many voters are unhappy with how much money the government spends on foreign conflicts instead of helping people at home. This anger might push them to vote against the current party in power.
  2. Despite Trump's mistakes during his time in office, he still appeals to voters who want a change from current policies. His promises to prioritize American interests resonate with those feeling ignored.
  3. Voters feel that both major parties are not addressing their needs, especially regarding foreign policy. This frustration could lead them to support Trump again, even if they know it might not bring real solutions.