The hottest Elections Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
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Top World Politics Topics

Meet the new boss

The Rubesletter by Matt Ruby (of Vooza) | Sent every Tuesday • 142 implied HN points • 20 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Elections Policy Leadership Autocracy
  1. There's a new administration in charge, and some people are nervous about what that will look like. It's important to think about how it might change life as we know it.
  2. Concerns are raised about the possibility of a theocracy or autocracy emerging. These are serious issues that could impact everyone's freedoms.
  3. The author is making predictions about the future political climate. It's a way to get people thinking about the direction society is heading.

THB 2025 Predictions

The Honest Broker Newsletter • 304 implied HN points • 31 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Leadership Policies International relations Climate
  1. The post raises ten questions about what might happen in 2025, covering various topics like politics and sports. It's a fun way to think about the future and invite readers to share their predictions.
  2. One question asks which leaders from the G7 countries will still be in power next year. This suggests interest in global politics and leadership stability.
  3. The author encourages readers to comment with their thoughts and predictions. The best predictions can win a lifetime subscription, making it interactive and engaging.

Iowa Whole Lotta Nothing

Sarah Kendzior’s Newsletter • 5791 implied HN points • 13 Jan 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Political system Accountability Political landscape
  1. Iowa is a mysterious place full of history and meaning beyond its surface appearance.
  2. The Iowa caucuses, once deemed important, now raise questions about accountability, diversity, and their relevance in today's political landscape.
  3. 2024 marks a significant time post-coup, post-covid, and post-truth, where election races serve as harbingers of political apocalypse and the erosion of democracy.

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.

Four THB Takeaways from the Incredible 2024 US Election

The Honest Broker Newsletter • 1079 implied HN points • 06 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Policy Party Dynamics Media Voter Behavior
  1. There has been a big shift in U.S. politics, showing that more voters are supporting Trump than in previous elections. This could change the political landscape for years to come.
  2. Policies are really important for making actual changes in government. It's crucial for Congress to play a bigger role in creating effective policies that help everyone.
  3. Independent media has become more important because they provide thoughtful and diverse viewpoints. Many traditional media outlets missed key points during the election, so people are turning to independent sources for better insights.
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Our best and worst takes of 2024

Silver Bulletin • 386 implied HN points • 31 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Polling Political Analysis Political Commentary
  1. In 2024, a lot of focus was on the election, which made it hard to cover other topics. It's important to find a balance between major events and a wider range of issues.
  2. Some predictions made during the year were spot-on, especially about political trends and voter behavior. This shows the importance of analyzing data carefully.
  3. Not every post or opinion held up well over time. It's a good reminder that things change, and it's okay to revisit and reflect on past takes.

It's 2004 all over again

Silver Bulletin • 1093 implied HN points • 12 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Political parties Electoral process Campaign Strategy Public Opinion
  1. Democrats are feeling stronger about their chances after recent elections, similar to how they felt in 2004. They believe they can regain control and improve their strategy moving forward.
  2. Trump, like Bush in his second term, may face challenges and unpopularity. Many voters who supported him might not be as forgiving now that he no longer has to run for elections.
  3. The electoral playing field has become more balanced for Democrats. With fewer structural disadvantages, they are optimistic about competing for Senate and House seats in future elections.

Harris is flanking Trump on white male outreach

Jeff Giesea • 738 implied HN points • 06 Aug 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Campaigns Identity politics Political strategy
  1. Kamala Harris's choice of Tim Walz as her running mate shows a strategy to appeal to straight white men. This move is seen as a way to reach a demographic that typically supports Trump.
  2. There is a belief that Walz's relatable personality and image could attract swing voters who might be on the fence about their political choices. Even small changes in voting patterns could have a big impact in the election.
  3. Harris could further connect with men by addressing their issues directly, which may help her campaign. Speaking on topics relevant to modern males could challenge the narrative and attract more support.

Will Kash Patel Fix the FBI—or Break It?

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 677 implied HN points • 04 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Government Media Political Figures Policy
  1. Kash Patel is seen as someone who wants to dismantle the FBI's current structure rather than just reform it. He has strong negative views on the 'deep state' and government officials.
  2. Patel has suggested bold actions, like turning the FBI headquarters into a museum to highlight the 'deep state'. He uses harsh language to describe those in power.
  3. He has also mentioned plans to pursue legal action against media figures he believes have lied or conspired against citizens, indicating a confrontational approach to his potential role.

Election Countdown, 17 Days to Go: Ground Truths That Matter.

Breaking the News • 1295 implied HN points • 20 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Media Political Analysis Political Figures Public Opinion
  1. JD Vance is becoming an important political figure, backed by powerful individuals like Peter Thiel and Elon Musk. Many believe he could take on a bigger role if Trump isn't able to continue in politics.
  2. Fox News is showing more of its true colors as a platform for opinion, rather than unbiased news. Recent interactions, especially with Kamala Harris, highlight their tendency to present misleading narratives.
  3. Sometimes, less experienced questioners can do a better job than seasoned pros. They might ask more straightforward and relevant questions, leading to clearer discussions.

🗽 The America we have, the America we could have

Faster, Please! • 1279 implied HN points • 05 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Public Policy Technological Impact Future Vision Social Trends
  1. Many Americans are supporting new technologies, especially in clean energy and biotechnology. This shows a growing hope for a better future.
  2. Better policies in the past could have made America more successful and advanced by now. Focusing on technology could lead to a wealthier and healthier society.
  3. People are imagining a future where life is longer and filled with more possibilities, like space travel and advanced learning methods. There's excitement about where technology can take us.

February 11, 2025

Letters from an American • 27 implied HN points • 12 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government History Elections Political parties Social Issues
  1. Abraham Lincoln believed that government should help people do things they can't do alone, like building roads and schools. He thought a strong government could support democracy and protect everyone's rights.
  2. Progressive leaders, like Theodore Roosevelt, expanded government roles to protect people from big businesses that harmed them. They aimed to ensure individuals had access to education, health care, and a clean environment.
  3. Over time, some people began to reject the idea of an active government, claiming it was un-American. Today, there are ongoing debates about how much the government should help everyday people versus the interests of the wealthy.

Regime Change Or Another Shit-Show?

The Weekly Dish • 140 implied HN points • 17 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Governance Policy Political parties Public Opinion
  1. The possibility of a regime change can lead to uncertainty about the future. Many people worry that changes in leadership might not really result in improvement.
  2. Past experiences suggest that political changes can sometimes lead to chaos rather than stability. It's important to be cautious about expecting positive outcomes.
  3. Looking ahead, it's reasonable to expect that challenges will continue, regardless of who is in charge. People may feel anxious about what could happen next.

Answering your questions

Comment is Freed • 54 implied HN points • 09 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Legislation Political parties International relations Public Policy
  1. There's a lot of confusion in U.S. politics, making it hard for opposition parties to work together against leaders like Trump or Musk. Without a single leader, responses can be slow and ineffective.
  2. Legal challenges are being used to push back against controversial actions taken by Trump and Musk. Courts are blocking some of their orders, but legal battles often take time, and problems can arise in the meantime.
  3. In the UK, there's a concern about future leaders gaining too much control. It’s important for political parties and civil servants to think ahead and prepare for any potential threats to democracy.

Despite Everything, Trump

eugyppius: a plague chronicle • 210 implied HN points • 20 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Candidates Political Analysis Government Public Opinion
  1. Trump's recent presidential win is seen as historic and significant, even amid serious legal troubles. Many believe his political presence will shape the future beyond just his own ambitions.
  2. Despite facing strong opposition from critics who labeled him as dangerous, Trump's power and influence have proven tough to overcome.
  3. The candidates that ran against him were considered weak by many, showing that Trump's political style is still very effective despite criticism.

ACX Local Voting Guides

Astral Codex Ten • 4198 implied HN points • 22 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Voting Local Politics Political parties
  1. Local voting guides are available for various cities, helping voters understand their options. Each city offers unique insights and recommendations based on local issues.
  2. Cities like Austin and Boston have put a lot of thought into their guides, even discussing candidates who may not fit typical party lines. This can help voters make better choices.
  3. Voting decisions can be influenced by community discussions and guides, highlighting important issues and candidate positions in a way that's easy to digest.

The End of the Cordon Sanitaire

Gideon's Substack • 124 implied HN points • 28 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political parties Elections Coalitions Governance Populism
  1. When political parties distance themselves from extreme groups, they might inadvertently empower those very groups. This creates a cycle where the extremes gain more influence in politics.
  2. Political coalitions often need to include groups they disagree with to gain power. This can lead to instability because the goals and values of these groups may not align.
  3. Ignoring the need for compromise can lead to fragmentation of political parties, making it harder to achieve any unity. Realizing this is crucial for facing the current challenges in politics.

Commentator

Castalia • 579 implied HN points • 22 Jul 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Policy Government Political parties Campaigns
  1. If Donald Trump had been shot and hadn't reacted, it could have changed politics a lot, making the Republican party scramble for a new leader. It might have led to violence, but it also could have been calmer than expected.
  2. The Democrats seemed resigned to losing the upcoming elections, with many believing Biden needed to step down. Their response has been quiet, as some leaders were preparing a plan to encourage Biden to leave gracefully.
  3. Now that Biden is out and Kamala Harris is the nominee, she needs to lead a strong campaign against Trump. Harris must highlight Trump's threats to democracy while showing she's capable, even though people often view her as insincere.

February 12, 2025

Letters from an American • 22 implied HN points • 13 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Elections Policies Legislation Foreign Relations
  1. Elon Musk now has significant control over parts of the U.S. government due to a new executive order that lets his department manage hiring and firing in various agencies.
  2. The U.S. government is facing potential funding cuts, which might affect programs like Social Security and aid for low-income individuals, while tax cuts for wealthy people are planned.
  3. There are worrying shifts in U.S. foreign policy, including a possible move away from supporting Ukraine and towards closer ties with Russia, which could undermine international alliances.

It’s Day 3 of a Disastrous Presidency and the Numbers Are In: No One Likes What Donald Trump Is Doing—Including MAGAs

Proof • 94 implied HN points • 23 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Policies Political Opinion Leadership Public Sentiment
  1. Many people are unhappy with the current actions being taken by the president, including his own supporters. This suggests a disconnect between leadership choices and public opinion.
  2. There's a question regarding who the president is really trying to help with his policies. It raises doubts about his priorities and motivations.
  3. The early days of this presidency are already marked by serious criticism, indicating potential challenges ahead for the administration.

I Promise I Am Not Trying To Distract You Today

Everything Is Amazing • 1140 implied HN points • 05 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Anxiety Coping Advice
  1. It's important to stay grounded during stressful times, like election season. Focus on small, manageable actions rather than getting overwhelmed by everything around you.
  2. Taking care of basic needs, like drinking enough water, can help reduce anxiety. Don't underestimate the power of staying hydrated.
  3. Instead of getting lost in distractions, try to engage with meaningful activities. Reading books or going for a walk can help you feel more centered and relaxed.

Migration Mess

Diane Francis • 959 implied HN points • 24 Jun 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Immigration Elections Populism Asylum International relations
  1. Immigration is a hot topic in elections, with many people feeling overwhelmed by the number of migrants and their needs.
  2. Historically, immigrants have faced challenges, and the perception of them has often been mixed, depending on their ability to fit in and contribute.
  3. Today's migration is influenced by global conflicts and human smuggling, leading to a rise in populist reactions against migrants.

Welcome to the cover-up for the cover-up

Unreported Truths • 77 implied HN points • 19 May 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Government Healthcare Political Commentary Public Opinion
  1. Biden recently announced having prostate cancer that has spread, raising concerns about the seriousness of his health. This announcement comes amidst scrutiny of his mental fitness for office.
  2. There are questions about why Biden, being an elderly president with health risks, may not have had routine cancer screenings. His health choices have sparked discussions about medical responsibilities for those in high positions.
  3. People are increasingly skeptical of how the media handles Biden's health issues. Many are starting to push back against narratives that seem to downplay concerns about his declining health or to silence legitimate questions.

Trump Was Right To Pull The United States Out Of The Corrupt World Health Organization

Unmasked • 75 implied HN points • 07 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Policy Healthcare Elections Public Health
  1. Trump's decision to withdraw the US from the World Health Organization (WHO) has been seen as a positive move. Many believe the WHO was corrupt and not helpful during the COVID pandemic.
  2. The WHO made mistakes by misreporting COVID's mortality rate, which caused unnecessary panic. They also promoted measures like masking without solid evidence backing them up.
  3. Countries like Sweden showed that it was possible to stay open during the pandemic without lockdowns. The WHO's strict measures did not provide real public health benefits and had harmful effects.

February 13, 2025

Letters from an American • 18 implied HN points • 14 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Legislation Elections Political parties Governance Political Accountability
  1. Senate Republicans acquitted Trump during his second impeachment trial even though many, including some Republicans, thought he was guilty. The decision required a two-thirds majority to convict, which they did not reach.
  2. Trump's administration is facing significant pushback, with several prosecutors resigning in protest over orders to drop corruption charges against New York City's mayor. It raises concerns about political influence affecting legal decisions.
  3. Governors are taking action against the Trump administration, like Pennsylvania's governor suing to release blocked federal funds that are meant for important state programs. Courts have ruled against the administration's hold on these funds.

Saturday Commentary and Review #183

Fisted by Foucault • 198 implied HN points • 11 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Political Ideologies International relations Public Policy Social Issues
  1. Putin has significantly changed Russia since he took power, winning popularity by boosting the economy and restoring national pride after the tough years of the Yeltsin era.
  2. Many Western countries failed to build a real partnership with Russia, leading Putin to seek closer ties with China instead, which some view as a mistake in the long run.
  3. The current political landscape shows that traditional liberalism is under strain, and while there is much discussion about new ideologies, many political movements still operate within a liberal framework.

Will RFK Jr get confirmed?

Vinay Prasad's Observations and Thoughts • 113 implied HN points • 31 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Policy Legislation Public Opinion Political parties
  1. People have strong opinions about RFK Jr.'s hearing, often based on their own beliefs. It's hard to say who came out on top because opinions are so divided.
  2. For RFK Jr. to get confirmed, he has to win over a few Republican senators without losing Democratic votes. It's a tricky balance, and some senators are unsure about their support.
  3. RFK Jr. claims he isn't against vaccines but wants more studies to ensure their safety. However, the arguments about vaccine safety are complicated and not fully addressed during the hearing.

Gerrymandering

David Friedman’s Substack • 404 implied HN points • 25 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Voting Rights Political parties Democracy
  1. Gerrymandering can cause a major mismatch between the number of votes a party gets and the number of seats they win. For example, in Tennessee, Republicans won a majority of the votes but secured nearly all the congressional districts.
  2. Courts can create confusion when deciding on gerrymandering cases. For instance, in Louisiana, one court ordered a new district to favor black voters while another barred such a plan, leading to mixed rulings.
  3. The current laws regarding voting representation may not consider how districts are drawn, creating issues for both racial and political fairness. Just because a group doesn't have representation proportional to their population doesn't mean gerrymandering is happening.

Be Careful What You Wish For: Gaza Edition

Gideon's Substack • 38 implied HN points • 12 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Analysis Foreign Policy Middle East Elections Public Opinion
  1. Trump may be setting a trap for Israel by proposing a plan for Gaza that seems appealing but is unrealistic. It suggests removing a population without addressing how to actually do it.
  2. Many Israelis seem to support Trump's plan, thinking it will lead to a solution for Gaza. But this belief might backfire if they realize the plan can't actually happen.
  3. This situation could create a political mess for Israel in the future. If Trump's promises go unfulfilled, the Israeli people may seek someone to blame, leading to more instability.

The Anti-Democratic Movement Targeted Ralph Nader First. We Should Have Paid More Attention

TK News by Matt Taibbi • 9183 implied HN points • 26 Jan 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Political Tactics
  1. Attention was not sufficiently given to the anti-democratic tactics used against Ralph Nader in 2004, which are now being employed more extensively by both parties.
  2. The significant hurdles that third-party candidates face in getting on the ballot, including costly signature collection and legal challenges from major parties, deter many from running.
  3. The current political landscape shows a rise in extreme measures to maintain power, sometimes at the expense of fair competition and voter choice, leading to increased polarization and disenfranchisement.

Fun With Proportional Representation: German Edition

Gideon's Substack • 19 implied HN points • 18 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Coalitions Parties Representation Voting
  1. In Germany's elections, small parties can greatly affect the outcomes for larger parties. Their ability to surpass the 5% vote threshold is crucial since it determines which parties can get seats in the government.
  2. Minor parties like the BSW and Linke can influence coalition options even if they don't join the next government. Their success or failure could shift power dynamics significantly in the Bundestag.
  3. Voting patterns can have unexpected results in proportional representation systems. A party's gains might help another party grow stronger, highlighting the complex nature of electoral outcomes.

This Election, Prepare for the Unexpected

Contemplations on the Tree of Woe • 3348 implied HN points • 01 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Law Political strategy Constitution Campaigns
  1. The outcome of the upcoming presidential election could be very unpredictable. Even if a candidate seems to win, a lot could still happen before they take office.
  2. There are serious questions about the rules governing how votes are counted and certified. Changes have been made to laws, but misunderstandings and disputes could complicate the process.
  3. The possibility of legal challenges is high if there's a conflict after the election. Various interpretations of laws can lead to confusion about who is actually president if issues arise.

Commentator

Castalia • 819 implied HN points • 28 Jun 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Campaigns Debates Political strategy Leadership
  1. Biden needs to step aside as he is not adding any value to the Democratic campaign. If he does so, the party could hold a convention and choose a new candidate who might have a better chance against Trump.
  2. Biden's poor debate performance shows he may not realize how badly it went. It's important for influential people around him to help him see the truth for the good of the party.
  3. Even if the Democratic convention seems messy, it's a valid way to choose a candidate. The party has strong talent and could effectively challenge Trump if Biden makes way for someone new.

Election Countdown, 20 Days to Go: Eyes Wide Open as We Near the End.

Breaking the News • 1115 implied HN points • 16 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Voting Economy Scandals Party Dynamics
  1. The economy is doing really well, which usually benefits the party in power. Strong economies often lead to successful elections for the candidates of the ruling party.
  2. There aren’t any major scandals surrounding the Democrats, unlike the troubles facing Trump. This gives the Democrats a cleaner slate going into the election.
  3. Despite positive factors for Democrats, polls show the election is still close. This leaves uncertainty about the outcome, as historical trends may not predict this race accurately.

Top Links 582 The EU-US divergence. Climate adaptation. Consuming Baghdad. Class is not a thing its a happening.

Chartbook • 414 implied HN points • 09 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Economy Employment Class Climate
  1. There's a noticeable difference between how the EU and US are handling policies and strategies. This divergence affects various areas like trade and climate issues.
  2. As climate change impacts increase, there's a growing need for effective adaptation strategies to deal with these changes. Communities worldwide are developing plans to better cope with climate impacts.
  3. The concept of class is evolving; it's seen more as a dynamic process influenced by current events rather than a fixed social status. This view can change our understanding of social structures.