The hottest Elections Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways

The Media's Mental Gymnastics Before Election Day

Erick Erickson's Confessions of a Political Junkie • 1159 implied HN points • 02 Nov 24

The media often interprets statements from public figures differently depending on their political stance. They might exaggerate comments from one side while downplaying those from another.
There have been significant issues with job growth lately, with reports showing a very low number of jobs created. Most of the new jobs have been in government, which doesn't help the overall economy much.
As the election approaches, media coverage tends to focus on distractions instead of important economic issues. This affects how voters perceive the situation.

As We Stare Down the Precipice, Final Ruminations

Simplicius's Garden of Knowledge • 10571 implied HN points • 31 Oct 24

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Media Public Opinion Political parties Trust

A significant change is happening in the political landscape, particularly with the upcoming election, which could have far-reaching consequences. Many people are anxious about whether this change will bring chaos or improvement.
Major media outlets have chosen not to endorse any presidential candidate this election, which is unusual and signals a loss of confidence in the current leadership and candidates.
Trust in journalists and media has fallen to alarming low levels, even below Congress. This reflects a growing disconnect between media narratives and the public's beliefs about accuracy and truth.

Trump’s Foreign Policy Revolution. Plus. . .

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 1460 implied HN points • 25 Feb 25

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy Elections Government International relations

Trump's foreign policy has changed the way America interacts with the world. Now, the U.S. is taking a different approach, acting more like a country that wants to change international rules.
Many Ukrainians feel let down by Trump after believing he could help them find peace. They've removed American flags from their gear because they no longer see the U.S. as a symbol of freedom.
Apple is making a big investment in the U.S., which is linked to Trump's tariff policies. This shows how companies are adapting their strategies based on the current political climate.

Harris’s Lost Week

Erick Erickson's Confessions of a Political Junkie • 2298 implied HN points • 01 Nov 24

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Political Analysis Campaigning Public Opinion Media influence

Kamala Harris's speeches and actions during a crucial week seemed overshadowed by Joe Biden's controversial remarks. This created confusion and drew attention away from her message.
Donald Trump was actively campaigning and making headlines, which left Harris and the Democrats trying to play catch-up. Trump's visibility and campaigning style were noticeably more vigorous.
There are signs that Democrats may be struggling with voter enthusiasm, especially among key voter groups. Despite some polls showing enthusiasm, early voting results suggest weaknesses in support.

What if super AI happens during Trump's presidency?

Faster, Please! • 91 implied HN points • 06 Mar 25

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Policy Governance Technology AI

The idea of super AI becoming a reality during Trump's presidency is being discussed, but it wasn't a major issue in the 2024 election. People might start hearing more about it in the future.
Experts believe we could see very capable AI systems soon, possibly during Trump's second term. This could change how we think about jobs and technology in our daily lives.
As AI technology advances, it will be important for government leaders to plan for its impact. Understanding how AI will affect society should be a priority right now.

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With Kennedy on Board, This is What a Trump Win Will Mean for Democrats

Popular Rationalism • 1367 implied HN points • 01 Nov 24

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Public Health Political parties Pharmaceuticals Vaccine Safety

A Trump win could force the Democratic Party to rethink its ties with the pharmaceutical industry. This may lead to more transparency and accountability in health policies.
Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is seen as a potential leader who could push for a health agenda focused on questioning the status quo and prioritizing public health over profit.
The public is becoming more aware of vaccine safety issues, and this awareness may change how health policies are formed and implemented in the future.

THE SHOW NOTES: Stenographers Revolt, Kamala's Employment Data Problem, & What Is Happening at CNN?

Erick Erickson's Confessions of a Political Junkie • 879 implied HN points • 01 Nov 24

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Government Media Campaigns Public Policy

Job growth in the U.S. has slowed down a lot, with only 12,000 new jobs added in October. This is a big drop from what experts expected, which could hurt the Harris campaign's message about the economy.
The White House changed a transcript to remove comments made by President Biden that insulted Trump supporters. This has caused a disagreement with the federal stenographers' office over transcript accuracy.
CNN faced backlash for allowing a guest to mock JD Vance's family struggles during a discussion. This was seen as disrespectful, given the serious background of addiction in his family.

Like 2008—but Better

Magic + Loss • 477 implied HN points • 01 Nov 24

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Public Opinion Political trends Democratic Party Campaigns

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.
The energy and enthusiasm can be seen in rallies and public engagement, indicating that this election could be pivotal.
Experts believe this enthusiasm for the election is significant and might play a crucial role in the outcome.

ATW Livestream Tonight at 8 PM ET/7 PM CT

TK News by Matt Taibbi • 1703 implied HN points • 24 Feb 25

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Legislation Government Media Policy

There will be an ATW livestream event tonight at 8 PM ET, where important topics related to the FBI and national security will be discussed. It's a chance to hear insights from knowledgeable voices.
Kash Patel has been confirmed as the new FBI director, and Dan Bongino is set to be the deputy director. This could impact how the FBI operates, especially in politically charged situations.
The discussion will also cover the role of the Internet in news coverage and MSNBC's recent changes, which may interest those following media developments.

Germans Say ‘No’ to Immigration. Plus. . .

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 1966 implied HN points • 24 Feb 25

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Government Immigration Populism Foreign Policy

In Germany's recent elections, the right-wing populist party AfD made big gains, highlighting public concern over immigration. Many voters want to stop mass immigration but prefer not to support AfD directly.
Trump's new policies are changing America's approach to Ukraine, which some view as a betrayal of both Ukraine and American values. Critics are worried about the potential consequences of this shift.
A small group held a vigil in New York for a recently killed terrorist leader, but many attendees did not even know his name. This raises questions about awareness and understanding of international issues among people.

Trump’s Foreign Policy Revolution

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 885 implied HN points • 24 Feb 25

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy Government Elections International relations Political theory

Trump's foreign policy is focused on protecting American interests first, breaking from past approaches. This means less commitment to global issues that don't directly benefit the U.S.
The idea of a global order that America used to support has started to be seen as a problem by some leaders. There's a belief that following this order has led to issues like a border crisis and rising competition from China.
Trump's administration has made bold moves, such as rethinking trade agreements and engaging directly with countries like Russia. This signals a big shift in how the U.S. interacts on the world stage.

Garbage In/Garbage Out

Erick Erickson's Confessions of a Political Junkie • 2138 implied HN points • 31 Oct 24

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Polling Campaigns Political parties Media

The race is very close, and polls show a shift towards Trump, even if some overall numbers may be off. It's important to pay attention to these trends as Election Day nears.
Biden's remark about Trump supporters being 'garbage' could be more damaging to his campaign than a comedian's joke about Puerto Rico, possibly alienating undecided voters.
Early voting numbers for Democrats are concerning, especially among black voters in key states. Republicans are doing better in early voting than in previous elections.

The Failure to Secure Elections

Erick Erickson's Confessions of a Political Junkie • 1378 implied HN points • 31 Oct 24

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Voting Media Conspiracy Legislation

There have been issues with voting technology, like a glitch in Michigan that affected some voters. This has led to accusations from both sides about election integrity.
Some media outlets focus on conspiracy theories without addressing real problems in the election systems, like unauthorized votes and security lapses.
The debate about election security is divided, with one side feeling ignored and the other side accused of spreading falsehoods. This causes distrust in the electoral process.

2024 Presidential Election Night Analysis Guide

COVID Reason • 376 implied HN points • 01 Nov 24

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Voting Demographics Political trends Analysis

In the last two presidential elections, small vote margins decided the winners. It shows how every vote really counts.
It's important to watch specific voter groups like Gen Z males and working-class women, as their choices can greatly affect the results.
Each state has different trends and thresholds for winning, so knowing the local demographics can help predict who might win.

How Trump will actually turn America into the 'garbage can of the world'

The Signorile Report • 1478 implied HN points • 31 Oct 24

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Economy Policy Government Media

If Trump wins, he may give Elon Musk the power to cut $2 trillion in federal spending, which could hurt many Americans by affecting key programs like Social Security and Medicare.
Companies are getting ready to raise prices due to Trump's planned tariffs on foreign goods, which could add to inflation just as it starts to ease.
Overall, Trump's policies might undo the strong economy built during Biden's presidency, potentially turning the U.S. into a less favorable place for everyday people.

The Most Important Campaign Stop Is a Rabbi’s Grave

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 1701 implied HN points • 23 Feb 25

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Governance Politicians Campaigns Political issues

Visiting the grave of Rabbi Menachem Mendel Schneerson is seen as an important gesture by political figures. They believe it connects them to spiritual strength and wisdom.
New York City Mayor Eric Adams is facing political challenges, with resignations and scrutiny around his actions. He is leveraging visits to the rabbi's grave for personal and public support.
Political leaders often seek guidance from religious and historical figures during tough times. This reflects a desire for deeper connections and reassurance in the face of adversity.

The Most Accurate Pollster of 2020 Releases Their Prediction!

COVID Reason • 713 implied HN points • 01 Nov 24

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Polling Elections Voter trends Political Analysis Demographics

Atlas Intel was the most accurate pollster in the 2020 election, using a digital-first approach to track voter demographics effectively.
In 2024, Trump is gaining more support among Hispanic and Black voters compared to 2020, showing a notable trend.
Kamala Harris has solid support among Democrats but is struggling more with Independents compared to Biden in 2020.

THE SHOW NOTES: The Garbage Man, Van Jones Blasts Progressives, & 60 Million Votes

Erick Erickson's Confessions of a Political Junkie • 879 implied HN points • 31 Oct 24

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Campaigns Political Commentary Voter Turnout Government Policies

Donald Trump is using humor to respond to Joe Biden's comments about his supporters, even campaigning in a garbage truck. It's a way to turn the insult into a joke.
Van Jones is criticizing progressives who support Hamas, highlighting divisions within political movements. His remarks show a need for clearer stances on complex issues.
Early voting is already high with around 60 million Americans having voted, but this doesn't guarantee the outcome of the election. It's a reminder that early numbers can be misleading.

President Biden Literally Calls Half of America "Garbage"

Erick Erickson's Confessions of a Political Junkie • 2098 implied HN points • 30 Oct 24

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Political Commentary Media Trust Public Opinion Political Rhetoric

President Biden called Trump supporters 'garbage,' which many are interpreting as an insult to about half of the country.
After his comments, the White House tried to clarify Biden's words but many think this just caused more confusion.
There's growing distrust in the media as they seem to cover up or spin what Biden said, which reflects a larger issue of credibility in journalism.

Requiem For The West

The Weekly Dish • 93 implied HN points • 21 Feb 25

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Policy Governance Political theory Political History

Trump and Vance have a significant impact on global freedom. Their actions may threaten democratic values.
The discussion reflects concerns about the direction of Western policies and leadership. Many people are worried about the stability of these values.
The piece suggests that current events could lead to a decline in the West's influence in the world. There's a feeling that this could be a turning point.

Why Trump's racist rally at the Garden is a turning point in the campaign

The Signorile Report • 2917 implied HN points • 29 Oct 24

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Campaigns Racism Media Public Opinion

Trump held a rally where he and his supporters made a lot of racist and hateful comments. This event was different from his usual rallies and it shocked many people.
The media reacted strongly to the rally, with major outlets labeling it explicitly as 'racist' for the first time. This attention might change how some voters view Trump as his comments may have crossed a line.
There seems to be tension within Trump's campaign because of the backlash. Some strategists are worried about how these comments could affect votes, especially in states with large Latino and Puerto Rican populations.

Two steps backward

Comment is Freed • 126 implied HN points • 01 Mar 25

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Elections Foreign Policy Political Analysis Media

Trump's meetings often feel like a drama, with him at the center trying to create the best storyline. If something isn’t working, he may just drop it and move on to another idea.
Dealing with real-world politics is tricky and can take a long time, unlike in a soap opera where things happen quickly. Negotiations involve many people who want their own say.
The U.S. administration's relationship with Ukraine can shift quickly, and the past week's discussions show a mix of friendly and tense moments.

TGIF: War Games

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 4020 implied HN points • 21 Feb 25

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy Elections Government War Political Commentary

Trump suggests that the U.S. should step back from supporting Ukraine and that Europe should take more responsibility for its own defense. He criticizes the spending involved and questions the effectiveness of current strategies.
Sanna Marin, Finland's former prime minister, agrees that it's reasonable for Americans to ask why they should pay more for Europe's security. She believes Europe needs to strengthen its own defense capabilities.
There are ongoing discussions about the long-term implications of the Ukraine conflict and the need for a new approach, as the war has dragged on with significant human costs and little indication of a quick resolution.

J.D. Vance's Speech in Munich

TK News by Matt Taibbi • 13631 implied HN points • 16 Feb 25

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Democracy Censorship Security Migration

Democracy needs to be more than just a talk; it has to be lived out. Leaders should listen to the concerns of their citizens and ensure their voices are heard.
Censorship and ignoring the opinions of voters can weaken democracy. Allowing free speech and dialogue is important for a strong society.
There's a growing concern over mass migration and its impact on communities. People want their leaders to address their safety and quality of life regarding these issues.

The German Establishment’s Last Chance

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 871 implied HN points • 24 Feb 25

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Political parties Immigration Public Opinion Governance

A lot of Germans voted recently, and the focus was mainly on immigration issues. This shows how important the topic is for many people right now.
The Alternative for Germany, or AfD, gained a lot of support, highlighting their strong stance on immigration. This raised concerns about how mainstream parties might respond to such a shift in voter priorities.
Friedrich Merz's Christian Democrats won the election but didn't get as many votes as expected. This could mean challenges ahead for them in addressing the rising support for the AfD.

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

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.
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.
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.

What I think DOGE is really up to

Noahpinion • 26588 implied HN points • 10 Feb 25

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Policy Elections Ideology Federalism

DOGE is a massive operation that seems focused on reshaping the federal government rather than just cutting costs. People are worried about what it’s doing, but its main aim may be to change the mindset of government workers.
The push to change the federal workforce's ideology may be influenced by the belief that it leans too far left. This could lead to a shift in how government programs function and who runs them.
Understanding DOGE's real purpose is important because it's moving quickly and often in secrecy. Instead of just reacting to its actions, we should be thinking about its long-term effects on government and society.

P.R. Problems: Maybe I Don't Understand Politics Very Well, Actually

Welcome to Garbagetown • 1964 implied HN points • 30 Oct 24

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Media Political Rhetoric Public Opinion Party Politics

Political communication often surprises people, especially when shocking statements come from unexpected places, like comedians during serious events.
The media tends to focus on certain controversial remarks while ignoring larger, more dangerous political issues, which can distort public perception.
Voting is crucial in determining the country's future, especially when faced with extreme political ideologies that threaten democracy and people's rights.

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

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.
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.
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.

What's going to happen to Ukraine now?

Noahpinion • 30412 implied HN points • 08 Feb 25

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy Geopolitics Elections War Strategy Political narratives Public Opinion

The current situation in Ukraine may lead to a Finland-like scenario, where Ukraine could lose some territory but still maintain its independence and democracy. This would be a strategic victory for Ukraine despite the tactical losses.
Recent shifts in American political support mean that while direct aid from the U.S. might change, Ukraine is still capable of defending itself and building its own military resources. They are determined to fight against the invasion.
Negotiations with Russia might focus on reaching a peace deal that allows for ongoing Ukrainian independence, despite the narrative that favors Russia. A balance may be struck where both sides can find a way to end the conflict without total defeat.

Exclusive: Amazon's new James Bond script

Read Max • 2529 implied HN points • 21 Feb 25

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Policy Regulation Cryptocurrency Media

Amazon now has creative control over the James Bond franchise, which worries some fans about the future direction of the films. There's a concern that Bond might lose its unique identity under a corporate-driven approach.
There’s a growing debate about the rise of cryptocurrency and the potential risks involved, especially as many people have been hurt by scams. Some politicians may benefit from supporting crypto now but might need to shift to stricter regulations in the future.
Many young men are investing in cryptocurrencies, aligning more with pro-crypto views, which is creating a challenge for Democrats who don't support crypto. If a market crash happens, this supportive group might quickly turn against it.

THE SHOW NOTES: Biden's October Surprise

Erick Erickson's Confessions of a Political Junkie • 1199 implied HN points • 30 Oct 24

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Government Public Opinion Political Analysis Legislation

Biden made controversial comments calling Trump supporters 'garbage' just before the election, which drew backlash from various political figures.
The White House quickly tried to clarify Biden's remarks, but many were unconvinced and criticized him for the language used.
Kamala Harris also faced scrutiny for her performance in a TV interview, highlighting challenges within the Democratic campaign leading up to the election.

A Brief Note on Today's House Hearing

TK News by Matt Taibbi • 16460 implied HN points • 13 Feb 25

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Congress Elections Legislation Political parties Free speech

There was a House hearing that showed a lot of disagreement, especially about digital censorship. Democrats seemed to treat the issue lightly, while Republicans were more serious about it.
Many politicians seem to think truth can be easily defined, which is a troubling view. Polls show that many people now support laws against misinformation, but this raises questions about who gets to decide what is true.
There was a time when members of Congress mainly respected each other and did quality investigations. Now, that sense of respect seems to be fading, which is disappointing for the institution.

At least five interesting things: Chaos Blitz edition (#59)

Noahpinion • 15647 implied HN points • 13 Feb 25

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Analysis Elections Government Policy Political Commentary Public Opinion

Trump's recent actions create a lot of chaos in government, making it hard for institutions like FEMA and scientific research to function properly. There's concern that this unpredictability could harm everyday services.
Despite some claims to the contrary, U.S. economic data is generally reliable and shows that the economy is doing well, with improvements in wages and job opportunities for most Americans.
China is becoming strong in technology by having multiple industries that support each other, which poses a challenge for U.S. companies because they don’t have the same kind of interconnected industrial ecosystem.

When the Edge Lords Lead

Erick Erickson's Confessions of a Political Junkie • 1838 implied HN points • 29 Oct 24

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary Elections Campaign strategies Voter Behavior Media influence

The people leading Trump's events tend to be edgy and enjoy making shocking jokes, which can backfire with voters. They don’t seem to recognize how their humor might upset others.
Comedian Tony Hinchcliffe made a joke that offended many, and his humor reflects how tone-deaf these leaders are to wider voter opinions. This can be risky for Trump’s campaign.
As the election approaches, every mistake could sway undecided voters, so it's crucial for campaigns to focus on appealing to all potential supporters, not just their base.

Dingus of the Week: Kristi Noem

Men Yell at Me • 372 implied HN points • 13 Jun 25

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary Government Protest Elections Immigration

Laughter can help us cope with tough political situations. It’s important to find humor even in serious moments.
There are strong reactions and protests against the government's actions, especially regarding immigration. People are standing up to defend their rights.
Kristi Noem is criticized for her actions and comments related to fascism and racism. It's important to address how individuals can misuse their power.

Harris Could Win. So Could Trump.

Erick Erickson's Confessions of a Political Junkie • 2437 implied HN points • 28 Oct 24

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Political strategy Voter Turnout Campaigns Party Dynamics

Kamala Harris has a real chance to win if women voters turn out in higher numbers, especially in swing states. Early voting trends show women are leading in participation.
The Republicans are worried about voter turnout, especially among women and Black voters. Both parties need to focus on getting their supporters to the polls.
Trump's controversial jokes and radical comments could harm his campaign. The media is likely to highlight these issues, which might discourage some potential voters.

The chaos has arrived

Noahpinion • 31353 implied HN points • 04 Feb 25

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Government Policy Trump Institutions

Trump's presidency is causing significant turmoil within institutions like the FBI, leading to a purge of personnel involved in investigations against him.
Trump is making decisions that disrupt relations with key allies and affect government spending, such as imposing tariffs and freezing federal aid.
There are concerns about the chaos resulting from Trump's management style, which may cause even more local and national issues as his term progresses.

Announcing My New Column in The Washington Post

Thinking in Bets • 138 implied HN points • 01 Nov 24

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Voter Behavior Political Analysis Opinion Data interpretation

Annie Duke is starting a new opinion column in The Washington Post, focusing on risk and decision-making. She'll share insights on how we interpret important data.
The column will discuss the misleading nature of data interpretation, particularly regarding Black voters' support in elections. Duke argues that misinterpretations can be more harmful than misinformation.
Annie's background as a decision scientist and former poker player helps her analyze how people make choices, which she'll explore in her writing.

Transcript - America This Week, Feb 21, 2025: "Looking Back on Trump's First Month"

TK News by Matt Taibbi • 1124 implied HN points • 22 Feb 25

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Elections Policy Surveillance Civil Liberties

Privacy is becoming a bigger issue, especially with new laws in the UK asking companies like Apple to give backdoor access to personal data. This raises concerns about keeping our information safe.
There's a shift happening where some politicians are starting to speak up for civil liberties and privacy rights. It's important that both parties work together on this issue to make real change.
The crazy atmosphere of Las Vegas can really mess with your mind. It’s like being in a different world without normal life routines, making even simple tasks feel surreal.