The hottest Elections Substack posts right now

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It’s Time for Former Trump Officials to Come Out Against Him

Bulwark+ • 8196 implied HN points • 18 Jan 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Political Commentary Elections Political Figures Policy
  1. Former Trump officials are speaking out against him, highlighting his moral depravity and incompetence.
  2. There is a need for these officials to reach out to more people, especially swing voters, to convey the dangers of a Trump presidency.
  3. Former Trump officials should come together and make a sustained effort to speak out against him, prioritizing the truth over partisan loyalties.

The Tulsi Gabbard Smears Are Unfounded, Unfair, and Unhelpful

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 1071 implied HN points • 01 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Foreign Policy Political Commentary Public Opinion Political parties
  1. Criticism of Tulsi Gabbard often focuses on her views about foreign policy, particularly regarding Russia and Ukraine. It's important to discuss her ideas rather than question her motives.
  2. Some political figures label Gabbard as a Russian asset without strong evidence, which can seem unfair and extreme. This kind of labeling can distract from actual discussions about her policies.
  3. Gabbard's past statements about diplomacy with tyrants have raised eyebrows. Many feel that during times of aggression, like Russia's invasion of Ukraine, strong responses are necessary rather than calls for neutrality.

Supreme Court poised to appoint federal judges to run the US economy.

Today's Edition Newsletter • 8078 implied HN points • 18 Jan 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Supreme Court Government Economy Elections Legislation
  1. Supreme Court might overturn Chevron deference doctrine, changing how US economy is regulated
  2. Conservatives aim to diminish power of executive branch and Congress, while empowering the courts
  3. Federal regulations in the US ensure safety, honesty, transparency, and accountability in the large economy

What the state of the US economy can tell us about Trump's populist appeal

Econ Populi • 19 implied HN points • 24 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Populism Elections Political trends Governance
  1. Bad economies can help populist candidates win elections. When people's lives are hard, they may choose someone who promises big changes, even if that candidate has been less successful.
  2. Populists like Donald Trump can be popular even when the economy is doing fine. Many voters don't rely on economic indicators and instead follow narratives that make them feel understood.
  3. Good economic governance might not be enough for traditional parties to win against populists. They need to connect with voters on a personal level and address their feelings about the elites and the current system.
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Why elections have surprised us in recent years

Optimally Irrational • 62 implied HN points • 07 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Coalitions Voting Demographics Political theory
  1. Political coalitions are really fragile. Just like a team can break up if members aren't happy, political alliances often change quickly too.
  2. Changes in voter demographics are not as predictable as they seem. For example, more minority voters don't always mean more power for one party because voter preferences can shift.
  3. Instability in coalitions can be actually good for democracy. It means different groups can team up and have a chance at winning, keeping the system fair.

MAGA Has TDS—Taylor Derangement Syndrome

Bulwark+ • 7350 implied HN points • 30 Jan 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Social Issues Conspiracy Theories Elections Celebrities
  1. Some within the MAGA movement believe in conspiracies involving Taylor Swift and the Super Bowl, alleging fixed events to push a political agenda.
  2. MAGA supporters express strong negative feelings towards Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce, criticizing their endorsements and public displays of affection.
  3. There are concerns within the MAGA community about Taylor Swift's potential influence in the 2024 election, stemming from her past political actions and large social media following.

Donald Trump Is Systematically Terrorizing MAGA Voters Via Trillions in Suspensions or Cuts to Aid They and Their Families Need

Proof • 108 implied HN points • 28 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Policy Governance Political Ideologies Party Dynamics
  1. Some wealthy people are believed to have a lot of power in the government now, and their ideas can be harmful.
  2. MAGA voters are facing serious financial difficulties due to cuts in aid that they really need.
  3. The changes in support and government help may cause fear and uncertainty among supporters of the MAGA agenda.

US Gun Stupidity

Diane Francis • 1059 implied HN points • 15 Jul 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Legislation Political violence Media Public Opinion
  1. An attempted assassination on a political figure can change the course of an election campaign. It can lead to dramatic reactions and rhetoric from involved parties.
  2. Political leaders may use such events to appeal to their supporters and create narratives that serve their agendas. This includes ascribing blame to political opponents in a bid to rally their base.
  3. The complexities of political violence highlight how individuals involved may have their own motivations, which can sometimes contradict the broader political stories being told.

Jan. 6 and the path not taken

Can We Still Govern? • 399 implied HN points • 06 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Democracy Leadership Political parties Elections Civil Rights
  1. Republican leaders failed to act against Trump after the January 6 event, which allowed him to regain power and continue his influence. They prioritized their own political goals over protecting democracy.
  2. Many Americans have moved from viewing the January 6 attack as a threat to democracy to seeing it as a sign of loyalty to Trump. This shift shows how quickly narratives can change in politics.
  3. In contrast to other countries, where leaders who challenged democracy faced consequences, the U.S. is seeing Trump and his allies returning to power without accountability for their actions. This raises concerns about the future of American democracy.

Fauci is pardoned

Vinay Prasad's Observations and Thoughts • 311 implied HN points • 20 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Legislation Government Public Policy Health Policy
  1. Biden's last pardons included Anthony Fauci, which raises questions about his past actions related to pandemic research.
  2. Fauci might face consequences for his alleged past actions, especially if questioned again about funding controversial research.
  3. His handling of the pandemic was criticized, as he oversimplified responses and made many incorrect recommendations that impacted public health and schools.

Sunday Strip: The Platypus Conspiracy -

Who is Robert Malone • 37 implied HN points • 16 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Policy Elections Whistleblowing Debt
  1. Whistleblowers play an important role in exposing wrongdoings. John Kiriakou, a former CIA officer, believes it's crucial not to stay silent.
  2. The U.S. government is facing a significant debt crisis. Many think that if spending isn't controlled, it could lead to serious consequences for the country.
  3. The platypus is a unique animal that mixes features from different species. It's a fun reminder of how diverse nature can be.

It's Kamala Time

Diane Francis • 1179 implied HN points • 08 Jul 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Candidates Political parties Campaigns Health Issues
  1. The upcoming US Presidential election in November is a major focus, with concerns about Joe Biden's ability to continue. His health and debates have caused divisions within the Democratic Party.
  2. Kamala Harris is seen as a strong and prepared candidate who can step in if needed. She has experience and could appeal to a diverse voter base.
  3. The 2024 election will focus on issues like gender and social justice, not just age or health. Kamala Harris's presence could be a significant advantage for Democrats.

Is It A Wake Up?

Points And Figures • 1012 implied HN points • 09 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Foreign Policy Government Democrats Republicans Media
  1. Many believe that the recent political changes in the US show a major disconnect between mainstream media and the public's opinions. People are looking for a voice, and this new landscape allows them to speak up.
  2. There is a sentiment that the government has become too intrusive and wasteful. Citizens feel frustrated about how their tax dollars are spent, particularly regarding foreign aid and pandemic response.
  3. Leaders like Trump and Musk challenge traditional bureaucratic management styles, and some hope this will lead to reduced government control and more effective management in the future.

Backlash to Tulsi Gabbard, Kash Patel in top intel jobs falls flat

Aaron Mate • 193 implied HN points • 30 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Legislation Political Analysis Political parties Public Opinion
  1. Tulsi Gabbard referenced whistleblowers who challenged a cover-up related to chemical weapons in Syria. This shows her willingness to address controversial issues.
  2. Kash Patel, known for exposing FBI wrongdoing, has faced little serious backlash despite his previous criticisms. This reflects a shift in the political landscape regarding intelligence roles.
  3. The reactions to Gabbard and Patel's positions indicate a change in public perception towards more open discussions of past intelligence controversies. It suggests that people might be more receptive to their viewpoints now.

Nyhetsbrev steigan.no 02.03.2025

steigan.no • 6 implied HN points • 02 Mar 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Elections Foreign Policy Military Public Opinion
  1. Many regions in West Africa are seeing resistance against historical French colonization, leading to military takeovers and calls for military withdrawal.
  2. The CFA franc, used by several West African countries, is losing support because many believe it limits their economic independence under French influence.
  3. There is a growing criticism of mainstream media's portrayal of military spending as necessary to counter perceived threats, with a demand for more balanced views.

Damaging US Relationships for Nothing

Phillips’s Newsletter • 149 implied HN points • 04 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Elections Policy Diplomacy Press
  1. Recent actions by the US government have hurt its relationships with neighboring countries like Canada and Mexico. These actions were supposedly in response to issues like illegal immigration and drug trafficking.
  2. There seems to be a mismatch between the tough talk from US leaders and the actual outcomes of their policies. Instead of strong responses, there might be more backlash than effective solutions.
  3. Some parts of the US press seem to have lost their ability to report independently. This raises concerns about the overall health of public discourse and journalism in the country.

The Authoritarian Playbook: 2025

Bulwark+ • 7488 implied HN points • 19 Jan 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Legal Elections Leadership Policies Partisanship
  1. A report warns of destructive actions an authoritarian president could take in 2025, building on past behaviors.
  2. The report outlines potential actions, such as abusing pardons to incite violence and using federal power for political aims.
  3. The authors stress the importance of not underestimating the potential impact of a second term for Trump and the need for vigilance.

'Net-Zero' ESG banking cartel continues collapse in aftermath of Trump victory

The Dossier • 311 implied HN points • 09 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Climate Policy Banking Global Governance
  1. BlackRock and several major U.S. banks have left the Net-Zero Banking Alliance. This signals a shift away from the previous focus on climate-focused banking practices.
  2. The Net-Zero Banking Alliance aimed to reduce carbon emissions and support climate initiatives. Some believe these goals may have hurt economic growth and innovation.
  3. The victory of President Trump is seen as a factor in the collapse of the ESG banking agenda. This change could allow for more freedom in the American economy from international influences.

My view on Trump

Disaffected Newsletter • 4076 implied HN points • 03 Apr 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Opinion Political Leadership Political parties Elections Social Issues
  1. Donald Trump is a narcissist, but the author believes he's less dangerous than many think. He sees Trump as more like a child who needs flattery and doesn't have tyrannical ambitions.
  2. The author views many politicians, including other presidential candidates, as narcissists too. He thinks Trump's boldness makes him stand out, but not necessarily in a unique way.
  3. Despite his concerns about Trump, the author sees him as the better choice compared to Biden. He believes that Biden's actions have caused more harm, leading him to support Trump strategically as the lesser of two evils.

February 14, 2025

Letters from an American • 25 implied HN points • 15 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Governance Justice Elections Corruption Public Policy
  1. There are serious issues in the Department of Justice about whether to follow the law or support Trump. Many lawyers have resigned due to pressure to drop federal charges against New York City Mayor Eric Adams.
  2. The chaos in the DOJ is similar to a past event where officials resisted orders from the president to protect the law. It shows the tension between doing what is right and protecting political interests.
  3. Protests are happening because the Trump administration removed certain references to LGBTQ+ rights from a historic monument's website. Activists are standing up to keep the history and contributions of LGBTQ+ persons recognized.

And Now, the Narrative Changes

Bulwark+ • 7075 implied HN points • 24 Jan 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Media Partisanship Polling General election
  1. The Republican Party is facing challenges due to a significant portion of voters who do not align with Trump's base.
  2. There's a shifting focus from primary battles to the upcoming general election, where Trump may struggle with moderates and independents.
  3. Biden's reelection campaign could benefit from improving economic optimism among voters, resembling Obama's successful 2012 campaign.

The pleasure of error

Gray Mirror • 198 implied HN points • 29 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory Elections Political Commentary Government Structure Ideological analysis
  1. Politics and comedy are closely linked. Both can deliver strong messages and reflect society's values in a memorable way.
  2. Being wrong in predictions can show that our understanding or model of reality needs to be updated. It's important to recognize the forces at play that we might not have fully considered.
  3. Big changes in government are often necessary to make things more efficient. Sometimes it's better to start new systems rather than trying to fix old ones that aren’t working well.

Updating the Constitution

God's Spies by Thomas Neuburger • 110 implied HN points • 20 May 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Constitutional Law Political theory Governance Political History Elections
  1. The U.S. Constitution has flaws that let a small number of people hold a lot of power. This can affect how fair and representative the government is for everyone.
  2. Various groups have changed the Constitution over the years, impacting democracy and people's rights. This includes influences from security measures, economic policies, and executive powers.
  3. There’s a push to make the unofficial changes to the Constitution official. This could lead to big shifts in how laws are applied or understood in the country.

HWFO Reading List, January 2025

Handwaving Freakoutery • 282 implied HN points • 09 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory Elections Democracy Influence Social Issues
  1. The debate around Curtis Yarvin and Peter Thiel highlights how people's connections can spark discussions about moral and political values. It's important to think critically about who we associate with and what their beliefs might mean.
  2. The illusion of democracy is argued to be valuable because it helps maintain peace and stability in society. By making people feel like they have a say, it reduces the chances of revolt.
  3. Understanding the complexities of governance can help us see that sometimes what we think is control may just be a perception. This can lead to less anxiety about political matters, even if it feels cynical.

Trump and the Rise of Asia

Global Inequality and More 3.0 • 770 implied HN points • 03 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Leadership Globalization Inequality International relations
  1. Western elites feel confused and uneasy with Trump's approach, much like Eastern European elites felt with Gorbachev. They see him as changing the norms that they are used to.
  2. European leaders are struggling to adapt to changes brought by Trump. They tend to view his presidency as a temporary disruption rather than a challenge to their rule.
  3. China's rise is shifting economic power away from the West, and many in the Western middle class may feel a decline in their global status as Asian economies grow rapidly.

The First Annual NonZero Awards

Nonzero Newsletter • 576 implied HN points • 30 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Corruption Elections Political Commentary Media influence
  1. The NonZero Awards celebrate significant events and people from the previous year, recognizing both good and bad moments in media and politics.
  2. Corruption in politics often becomes a spectacle, with some cases, like those involving certain politicians, described in a humorous and exaggerated manner.
  3. The rise of AI has opened new discussions and concerns, notably regarding its use in both everyday tasks and potentially dangerous contexts, like propaganda.

Trump’s Back. What Now?

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 194 implied HN points • 21 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Political Commentary Government Public Policy Political Humor
  1. Donald Trump's recent inauguration had a mix of typical political elements with some unusual and entertaining choices, like dancing with a famous performance group.
  2. He changed the location of the ceremony because of cold weather and gave notable tech leaders special seating.
  3. His inauguration speech included a blend of serious topics and odd statements, making it feel less formal.

Kamala Harris was a replacement-level candidate

Silver Bulletin • 1376 implied HN points • 15 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Candidates Political strategy Campaigning Political Analysis
  1. Kamala Harris was seen as an average candidate, which was not enough in a tough election year for Democrats. Instead of standing out, she blended in with the party, making it hard for voters to be excited about her.
  2. Many believe that Biden's performance as president hurt Harris's campaign, as he focused on tough issues and overshadowed her messaging. This made it difficult for her to establish her own identity separate from him.
  3. Harris struggled with her political stance, trying to appeal to both the left and the center. This confused voters and may have cost her support compared to other Democratic candidates who were clearer about their positions.

The story of Trump's win was foretold in New York City

Silver Bulletin • 1588 implied HN points • 06 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Political strategy Voter Demographics Party Dynamics
  1. Trump's support is growing even in traditionally Democratic areas like New York City. His vote share has significantly increased compared to past elections.
  2. The Democratic Party needs to understand why they lost and reassess their strategies. Many people are questioning what went wrong and looking for answers.
  3. The mood after the election was calmer than in 2016, suggesting people are more prepared for surprises in politics now. This clarity might help the Democrats focus on better decisions moving forward.

Why Wall Street is Surrendering to Trump

Bulwark+ • 6584 implied HN points • 26 Jan 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Policy Elections Foreign Relations Democracy Corruption
  1. Big business on Wall Street is aligning with Trump for venality, self-interest, and fear, even though they know he threatens democratic norms.
  2. Business elites view Trump as good for their bottom line despite his threats and autocratic tendencies.
  3. Trump's return could lead to increased government control to punish dissent, targeting industries and businesses that oppose his views.

Joni Ernst, Iowa, and the GOP Circa 2024

Bulwark+ • 7036 implied HN points • 16 Jan 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Elections Policy News Republicans
  1. Senator Joni Ernst's shifting statements on the Capitol riot raise questions about GOP's stance on insurrection.
  2. Republican voters in Iowa support Trump despite controversies, but significant percentages may not in the general election.
  3. GOP's willingness to stand by Trump, despite potential criminal charges, signals a concerning trend for the party's future.

Analyzing The Recall Of Pamela Price

The Discourse Lounge • 512 implied HN points • 17 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Political Analysis Demographics Social Issues Local Governance
  1. Pamela Price's recall shows that political disagreements shouldn't lead to recalls unless there's serious wrongdoing. Many voters felt the recall was too harsh given the situation.
  2. Demographic changes in the area impacted voting results. Higher growth in White residents correlated with support for Price, while Hispanic communities leaned towards the recall.
  3. The lack of reliable local news played a big role in shaping public opinion against Price. Many residents relied on social media for information, leading to misperceptions about her performance as a District Attorney.