The hottest Elections Substack posts right now

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This Is Peak Trump

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 1335 implied HN points • 01 Jul 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Policy Foreign Relations Legal issues Domestic Issues
  1. Trump has been experiencing a lot of successes lately, particularly in foreign policy and legal achievements. His supporters are feeling very positive about this winning streak.
  2. He is planning to sign an important tax and spending bill on July 4, which could solidify his political agenda. This timing is seen as very significant by his followers.
  3. Trump has proven to be effective in delivering on his promises, surprising many critics who underestimated him. His recent successes have boosted his standing with his base.

THE SHOW NOTES: Nazi Republicans, 50 Million Votes, & Kamala Cringe

Erick Erickson's Confessions of a Political Junkie • 1159 implied HN points • 29 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Media Campaigns Political parties Public Opinion
  1. CNN has started using severe language, calling Republicans Nazis, linking them to a negative history. This creates a strong division in political discussions.
  2. 50 million Americans have voted early, showing a high level of engagement in the upcoming election. This could indicate strong turnout on election day.
  3. Kamala Harris's campaign has faced challenges, with her waiting until the last minute to showcase key moments. Her approach seems less appealing compared to other candidates.

You Don't Actually Need To Pick A Team

Caitlin’s Newsletter • 1839 implied HN points • 21 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary Elections Political Ideology Corruption Media influence
  1. You don't need to choose between political parties like Democrats and Republicans. They both operate under a corrupt system that doesn't serve the people's best interests.
  2. All politicians, regardless of their party, are part of a larger empire that causes harm. You shouldn't expect any of them to truly represent you or be your friend.
  3. Real change won't come from voting for leaders within a broken system. It requires understanding the issues and working together to challenge existing power structures.

#226: New York’s mayoral race is a parable

Maybe Baby • 2203 implied HN points • 22 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Candidates Progressivism Political strategy Media influence
  1. The New York mayoral race shows a clash between old political styles and new ideas. One candidate focuses on exciting, progressive policies while the other relies on name recognition despite a troubled past.
  2. Media often ignore or attack new candidates who propose bold changes, fearing they might disrupt the status quo. This highlights a pattern of sidelining progressive voices in politics.
  3. Supporting candidates with strong, hopeful visions can create a sense of community and empowerment. Engaging in political activism can make people feel part of something bigger and more meaningful.

How Long Will Trump’s Winning Streak Last? Plus…

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 969 implied HN points • 01 Jul 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Government Policies Foreign affairs Political Commentary
  1. Trump is currently experiencing a good streak in his presidency, with successful policies and international agreements. However, politics can quickly change, so he needs to stay prepared for challenges ahead.
  2. Understanding Trump's foreign policy approach, he focuses on protecting American interests without being overly involved globally. He prefers allies who can defend themselves instead of relying too much on the U.S.
  3. Socialism is popular among some young people today, but it's important to recognize the potential downsides. Real-life experiences, like long waits at government offices, can highlight the inefficiencies of a government-run system.
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Politics as Making Hardwood Furniture with Dull Tools: Mamdani's NYC Primary Win Is Not a Win, But Only an Uncertain High-Stakes Bet

Brad DeLong's Grasping Reality • 192 implied HN points • 26 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Coalitions Political strategy Campaigns Political theory
  1. The Democratic primary doesn't really matter; it's just practice before the real election. Understanding this can help build better teams and avoid mistakes.
  2. Winning a primary is not the same as winning the general election. It's important to think about if the chosen candidate can actually win and do good things if elected.
  3. Politics is about creating connections and rallying support. Success comes from believing in new possibilities and building a team that represents diverse backgrounds and needs.

Pervy Voters

Magic + Loss • 516 implied HN points • 30 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Voting Political Behavior Political Commentary Party Politics
  1. Some voters make choices just to be rebellious, not because they truly believe in a candidate or party. They might want to shock people or go against the norm.
  2. Voting is usually about practical interests, like money or personal benefits, rather than just trying to be edgy or nonconformist.
  3. Spite can drive people to vote against their own values or interests, which can have serious consequences for democracy.

Nation Shrugs as Godzilla Eats Washington

TK News by Matt Taibbi • 18122 implied HN points • 04 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Legislation Policy Governance Administration
  1. There's a lot of chaos happening in Washington with Trump's return, and many people are indifferent to the changes he's making. It feels like he's causing a big stir, but some see it as a refreshing shake-up.
  2. People are questioning the work and spending of groups like USAID, suggesting some of their projects aren't justifiable. There's a debate about whether funds for certain programs are worth it, especially concerning national security.
  3. The political atmosphere is tense, with ongoing legal challenges to Trump's actions and many officials rushing to defend policies that many find controversial. The situation is creating a lot of friction and public spectacles in politics.

Here Comes The 2020 Playbook Again!

Emerald Robinson’s The Right Way • 3710 implied HN points • 24 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Voting Media Political issues Government
  1. Media is warning about delayed election results again, just like in 2020. This raises concerns about the voting process.
  2. Certain states consistently struggle to count votes quickly, which leads to suspicions about their election integrity.
  3. Voters are already experiencing issues with voting machines, raising more doubts about the fairness of the elections.

Your Emotional Support Historian

Campaign Trails • 4844 implied HN points • 23 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Predictions Polling Political History Campaigns
  1. Historians are trained to look back at events, not predict the future. They often find it tricky to offer reassurance during election seasons.
  2. Making confident predictions can lead to embarrassment, as history shows many past predictions were wrong. This causes historians to be cautious when discussing possible outcomes.
  3. Predictions about elections are often unreliable and should be taken with a grain of salt. The best approach is to focus on getting people to vote rather than getting caught up in the predictions.

THE SHOW NOTES: Trump at MSG, The Disturbing Ad, & Nick Bosa

Erick Erickson's Confessions of a Political Junkie • 1179 implied HN points • 28 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Events Elections Public Opinion Media influence Political Commentary
  1. Donald Trump held a big rally at Madison Square Garden with many well-known guests. Some people were not happy with a comedian's controversial jokes at the event.
  2. The Israeli military attacked Iran's air defense systems as part of a response, but they chose not to target major facilities like nuclear sites after pressure from the U.S.
  3. Kamala Harris is pushing for changes in how female leaders are described in reports, but an internal review found no significant bias in the language used.

TGIF: The People’s Republic of Manhattan

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 2596 implied HN points • 27 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Legislation Campaigns Political Figures Social Issues
  1. Zohran Mamdani is running for mayor of New York City and has gained attention for his unique campaign style. His approach combines humor and social media, reminiscent of Trump's marketing tactics.
  2. Despite having a privileged background, Mamdani's campaign portrays him as an outsider challenging the political establishment. He has proposed policies like free buses and rent freezes, aiming to appeal to the public's desire for change.
  3. Mamdani's election reflects a broader shift in New York politics, with moderate Democrats feeling uneasy about his progressive stance. His charismatic campaigning is seen as a potential game-changer for the city's future.

Harris's Bold Miscalculation

Erick Erickson's Confessions of a Political Junkie • 3397 implied HN points • 24 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Campaigns Political parties Public Opinion Legislation
  1. Democrats may have misjudged the election by not toning down their extreme views. They felt they could win just by being anti-Trump without appealing to moderates.
  2. Kamala Harris has stuck to her bold positions on issues like abortion and trans rights, which some believe could hurt her in the election. Instead of showing flexibility, she's chosen to dig in her heels.
  3. There are Republicans who oppose both candidates but feel that after Trump, those who supported Harris will have no influence in the GOP. They think Harris's supporters will be left out of future party decisions.

Spare Me Your Outrage

Erick Erickson's Confessions of a Political Junkie • 2857 implied HN points • 24 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary Elections Political parties Public Opinion Political Rhetoric
  1. People often label their opponents in politics with extreme names, like calling Republicans 'Hitler'.
  2. Some argue that this kind of name-calling only shows hypocrisy and lack of self-awareness in political discourse.
  3. There is a feeling among some that both sides are acting authoritarian, even while accusing each other of the same.

ATW Livestream Tonight at 8 PM ET/7 PM CT

TK News by Matt Taibbi • 2416 implied HN points • 17 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Health Policy Government Media Elections Public Opinion
  1. There's a livestream event tonight at 8 PM ET where Matt and Walter will talk about important topics.
  2. Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is the new secretary of health and human services, promising transparency and honest science.
  3. The discussion will focus on COVID-19, the medical establishment's claims, and what changes might happen under his leadership.

Bunk, Debunked

Magic + Loss • 894 implied HN points • 28 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Public Opinion Elections Political Rhetoric Voting Trends Campaign strategies
  1. Kamala Harris is doing well in several polls, showing she's ahead of Trump nationally. This is encouraging for her supporters as it suggests strong backing.
  2. Trump is using aggressive and divisive language that echoes dangerous past movements. Many observers are concerned about the implications of this rhetoric.
  3. The results of these polls counter common narratives that suggest Harris is losing support among certain groups. It's important to rely on data rather than hearsay.

🚨 BREAKING: Harris Campaign Gives Up. Turns to Shoring Up Congress.

Erick Erickson's Confessions of a Political Junkie • 3557 implied HN points • 22 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Campaigns Legislation Parties Political strategy
  1. Kamala Harris's campaign is shifting focus from trying to win the White House to supporting Congress candidates in red states.
  2. This change shows that her team is acknowledging a likely loss in the presidential race and is instead working to boost House and Senate seats.
  3. This strategy mirrors what Bob Dole did in 1996 when he realized he would lose and turned his efforts to encourage Republican turnout in important districts.

Here’s Where I Think the Race Stands

Erick Erickson's Confessions of a Political Junkie • 4056 implied HN points • 21 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Campaigns Polls Public Opinion Political Analysis
  1. Trump appears to be enjoying the campaign more than Harris, which might give him an edge in the race. People respond to candidates who look relatable and fun.
  2. Polls show a growing support for Trump, suggesting he could win the Electoral College if the election were today. Democrats seem to be worried about their campaign's effectiveness.
  3. Voters are more concerned about their everyday economic struggles than the political drama surrounding Trump. Many feel the current administration isn't helping their financial situation.

HUGE: Voters flipping RED in Pennsylvania

COVID Reason • 793 implied HN points • 28 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Political parties Public Opinion Campaign Strategy
  1. Republicans in Pennsylvania have gained a lot of new voters this year, especially from Democrats. This change could really impact the upcoming elections.
  2. The data shows that more people are switching their party affiliation to Republican than Democratic, indicating a shift in political support.
  3. Both political parties will need to respond strategically to these changes to stay competitive in the electoral race.

Calling a fascist a fascist is how you treat a fascist

The Signorile Report • 2278 implied HN points • 24 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Rhetoric Elections Democracy Leadership Public Opinion
  1. Vice President Harris openly called Trump a fascist, following the same sentiment from his former military officials. This bold statement aims to emphasize the serious risks of his leadership.
  2. Former military leaders have warned that Trump poses a threat to democracy, and using terms like 'fascist' helps keep this concern in the public eye as the election approaches.
  3. Harris's approach is to use these serious allegations to motivate voters, reminding them of the dangers of Trump's potential return to power.

It's Celebrity-Election-Line-Up!

Vicky Ward Investigates • 279 implied HN points • 30 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Celebrity Influence Campaign Strategy Voter Engagement Political endorsements
  1. Celebrities are heavily involved in the election, but their influence on voters might not be as strong as hoped. Many people don’t change their voting choices based on celebrity endorsements.
  2. Taylor Swift stands out as a celebrity who could really sway young voters, especially since she has a significant following among undecided young women. If she actively campaigns, she might make a difference.
  3. Past celebrity involvement has sometimes backfired, like in Hillary Clinton's case in 2016. The focus on celebrity endorsements may not connect well with voters, especially those who feel alienated by elitism.

What is there left to believe in?

Noahpinion • 25882 implied HN points • 20 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Ideologies Elections Governance Political parties Political Movements
  1. There is a growing frustration among Americans with current progressive ideas, as many feel these ideas do not resonate with their everyday lives.
  2. On the other hand, conservatism isn't showing a strong comeback, leaving people feeling uncertain about their future beliefs and values.
  3. The political landscape seems dominated by individuals acting out of self-interest, making it hard for people to find reliable leaders or movements to support.

Beware The Yard Sign Thieves!

Vicky Ward Investigates • 119 implied HN points • 31 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Politics Activism Social Issues
  1. Yard sign theft is becoming a problem as election day approaches, especially in some communities. People are stealing signs for various political candidates, causing frustration for those trying to show their support.
  2. In a town where many liberal artists live, the focus is on the missing Harris/Walz signs, which keep getting stolen. This makes it harder for those wanting to display their political views.
  3. Replacing these stolen signs can be costly for residents, as they often have to buy new ones multiple times. The ongoing thefts are creating tension between different political views in the area.

Reality Check

Erick Erickson's Confessions of a Political Junkie • 2537 implied HN points • 23 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Polls Candidates Political trends Voter Behavior
  1. Polling shows a tight race, which might favor Trump since he's historically done well in similar situations. Key voters who are likely to turn out are showing signs they might back him.
  2. Democrats, especially Kamala Harris, are facing issues with voter turnout and are seen as frustrated. Trump, on the other hand, appears to be energized and is campaigning actively in swing states.
  3. Many Americans feel dissatisfied with their current situation, and they trust Republicans more on major issues like the economy and crime. This shift in sentiment could impact the election results.

The Eerie Calm Before the Storm

Simplicius's Garden of Knowledge • 8393 implied HN points • 13 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Censorship Legal issues Public Opinion Political Commentary
  1. Sometimes people feel nervous about discussing certain topics because of new rules and laws. It can feel safer to keep some things private.
  2. During important times, like elections, some writers might decide to share more sensitive content through paid posts. This isn't to force anyone to pay, but to protect their ideas.
  3. It's okay for readers to see a few more paywalled pieces, as it may just be about being cautious rather than a change in the usual routine.

Nice little economy you've got there, be a shame...

The Crucial Years • 3388 implied HN points • 13 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Energy Policy Climate change Foreign Relations Corporate Influence
  1. Countries like Taiwan, India, and Japan are increasing their purchases of American liquefied natural gas to avoid tariffs from the Trump administration. This move illustrates how global energy politics are heavily influenced by economic pressures.
  2. The push for liquefied natural gas exports has potential negative effects on American consumers, as it can lead to higher natural gas prices. Increased exports can make energy more expensive for households relying on natural gas.
  3. Despite the focus on fossil fuels, there is a growing movement towards renewable energy. It's important to promote clean energy solutions as a way to combat climate change and lower energy costs for everyone.

Bibi, bunker busters, and booty calls

The Rubesletter by Matt Ruby (of Vooza) | Sent every Tuesday • 356 implied HN points • 24 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Legislation Foreign Policy Public Opinion Political parties
  1. The relationship between Trump and Netanyahu affects the Jewish community in different ways. It's important to understand how these political connections influence opinions and actions.
  2. The discussion also touches on foreign policy issues like Iran and immigration. These topics are complex and can have significant impacts on domestic and international relations.
  3. Other themes mentioned, like lifestyle choices and cultural references, highlight the mix of politics and everyday life. It's interesting to see how these different areas blend together in conversations.

SHOW NOTES: We Have Some Trends

Erick Erickson's Confessions of a Political Junkie • 1498 implied HN points • 25 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Voting Political trends Campaigns Polls
  1. Early voting trends are showing an unusual pattern in several states, like Nevada where Republicans are voting more than Democrats. This could indicate a shift in voter sentiment ahead of the election.
  2. In Georgia, a significant number of early voters didn't participate in the last two elections, and there’s a noticeable decline in black voters compared to previous years. This change could affect overall turnout and results.
  3. Polling shows the race is tight, with a sense of momentum building for Trump. However, the election outcome still depends on actual voter turnout, and anything can happen between now and then.

Weekend Report: What's going on?

The Signorile Report • 1159 implied HN points • 26 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Legislation Political parties Media Public Opinion
  1. The Washington Post faced backlash for not endorsing Vice President Harris, as it had been planned, due to the owner's concerns about government contracts. Many people are upset about this decision.
  2. Donald Trump was late to his rally, which caused some of his supporters to leave, while Kamala Harris had a massive crowd in Texas with star guests like Willie Nelson and Beyoncé.
  3. Democrats are focusing more on state legislative races, seeing them as important for boosting their chances in the presidential election. This strategy aims to strengthen local support and influence.

Strange Bedfellows

Campaign Trails • 4625 implied HN points • 17 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Campaigns Political strategy Political History Partisanship
  1. People from different political backgrounds can still agree on important issues, like protecting democracy. It's curious to see alliances form where you least expect them.
  2. Supporting a candidate like Kamala Harris doesn't mean changing beliefs or plans. It's more about attracting voters from all sides for a better chance at winning an election.
  3. Historically, reaching out to people from the opposing party has led to successful campaigns. Winning broad support is key to pushing forward important policies after elections.

AI #104: American State Capacity on the Brink

Don't Worry About the Vase • 2240 implied HN points • 20 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Governance Policy Elections Public Opinion Regulations
  1. The U.S. government is planning to fire many employees who work on AI, which could really hurt the country's ability to manage AI-related systems safely.
  2. People are seeing the importance of keeping a strong government presence in AI development to ensure safety and progress, especially concerning national security.
  3. There's a growing concern that changing safety regulations around AI could lead to issues with trust and effectiveness in how AI is used in society.

SHOW NOTES: October Surprise; Town Halls; The Early Vote

Erick Erickson's Confessions of a Political Junkie • 1378 implied HN points • 24 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Polling Political Commentary Political News Government
  1. A recent claim about Donald Trump from 1993 is dismissed because it contradicts facts about when Jeffrey Epstein lived in a specific location.
  2. Recent polls show Donald Trump gaining popularity, even surpassing Vice President Harris's favorability ratings.
  3. Georgia's election officials successfully defended against a cyber-attack, and concerns about North Korean soldiers helping Russia in Ukraine are growing.

Making Sense of Mamdani

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 1386 implied HN points • 26 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Campaigns Political strategy Social Issues Public Policy
  1. Zohran Mamdani ran a very effective campaign that connected well with young voters, using social media and grassroots efforts to reach people across New York City.
  2. Despite some viewing him as inexperienced, he gained a significant following, winning over 430,000 votes in a crowded primary.
  3. Understanding the reasons behind his popularity is important for both supporters and critics, as it reflects the hopes and frustrations of many New Yorkers.

The Washington Post's Bold Look Ahead to 2028

TK News by Matt Taibbi • 10098 implied HN points • 29 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Democrats Political strategy Political Commentary Media
  1. The idea of planning for the 2028 elections seems out of touch with current events. Many believe focusing on the present issues is more important than looking ahead to future elections.
  2. The article pokes fun at the optimism around potential Democratic candidates without acknowledging the challenges they face now. People feel that this optimism might not reflect the reality of the political landscape.
  3. There is a sense of urgency in dealing with current political changes rather than speculating about future candidates. It's like ignoring a fire while planning a barbecue.

The Ukraine Blowback Begins

JoeWrote • 76 implied HN points • 04 Mar 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy Military Political Commentary Geopolitics Elections
  1. America's military support for Ukraine is getting complicated and could lead to unexpected problems in the future. There are concerns that weapons could land in the wrong hands and create new conflicts.
  2. Some extremist groups in Ukraine, like the Azov Battalion, have gained power and access to U.S. military equipment. This raises worries about how they might use these weapons in the future, especially if they turn against the Ukrainian government.
  3. The situation is becoming unstable as political support from the U.S. shifts. If military aid stops, it could lead to infighting and chaos within Ukraine, making things even worse for the country.

A politician's speech

antoniomelonio • 57 implied HN points • 04 Mar 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Corruption Media Speech Public Policy
  1. Politicians often give speeches that can be confusing or vague. It's important to listen carefully to understand their real message.
  2. Sometimes, political speeches might seem to cover important topics but can actually avoid the main issues. Be critical and think about what is truly being said.
  3. It's essential to stay informed and question what politicians say. Don't just take their words at face value; think about what they really mean.

Inside the Frenzy to Stop Zohran Mamdani

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 505 implied HN points • 29 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Candidates Political Movements Socialism Voting Trends
  1. Zohran Mamdani, a socialist candidate, won a significant victory in the New York City mayoral primary, surprising many in the political scene.
  2. Young voters, like Zosia Tapp, feel motivated by Mamdani's message and want a leader who understands their struggles.
  3. There is a strong divide, as those benefiting from the current political system are determined to thwart Mamdani's rise to mayor.

Elon and Trump Break Up In Spectacular Fashion. What’s Next?

Big Technology • 4003 implied HN points • 05 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Conflict Celebrity Influence Government Contracts Elections Media Relations
  1. Elon Musk and Donald Trump's recent split was unexpected, going from friendly to very heated quickly. Their fallout started with Trump criticizing Musk over a spending bill.
  2. Musk publicly claimed he helped Trump win the election, which sparked a harsh response from Trump. This accusation seemed to upset Trump deeply.
  3. As a result of their fight, Musk's companies could face serious challenges with government contracts and regulations. The future looks uncertain for his business dealings.