The hottest Elections Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
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Top World Politics Topics

The Election Blues

Who is Robert Malone • 24 implied HN points • 05 Nov 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections
  1. Democrats had a big advantage in spending and strategy, which helped them turn out voters better than Republicans. It's tough for the party in power to win during off-year elections.
  2. In places like Virginia and New York City, the expected outcomes happened, showcasing issues like candidate charisma and election system complexities that confuse voters.
  3. Looking ahead, Republicans might face challenges in upcoming elections, and they need to work harder to maintain their influence and support meaningful changes in governance.

We're Really Gonna Do This Again, Huh?

Slack Tide by Matt Labash • 247 implied HN points • 06 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections
  1. People may not learn from past mistakes, and history can repeat itself. It's important to reflect on our choices and their consequences.
  2. Chaos and uncertainty seem to be a part of the political landscape, and it can be exhausting. Be prepared for more challenges ahead.
  3. Understanding the seriousness of our decisions is crucial. We should strive to make better choices instead of falling into the same patterns.

David Sacks' Intellectual Journey

Erik Torenberg's Thoughts • 208 implied HN points • 11 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections
  1. Silicon Valley used to support free speech, but now many companies limit it to control political views. This shift is concerning as it can stifle people's voices and even their ability to earn a living.
  2. There’s a big divide in how educated professionals and working-class people think and vote. This divide shapes our institutions and can create conflict because the elite often push ideas that don’t reflect the majority's beliefs.
  3. Accountability is essential for those in power. If leaders make mistakes without facing consequences, it undermines trust. There's a call for more populist leadership that listens to the people's needs and holds elites accountable.

The Energizing Clarity Of Democracy

The Weekly Dish • 236 implied HN points • 08 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections
  1. Democracy can bring a sense of energy and clarity to political events. It helps people understand their roles and responsibilities in society.
  2. Elections are important moments for reflecting on the future of the nation. They reveal the hopes and concerns of the people.
  3. Engagement in democracy can lead to a stronger community. When people participate, they contribute to shaping the world around them.
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What is giving you hope?

Men Yell at Me • 247 implied HN points • 04 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections
  1. It's important to share positive news, especially when things feel tough. Talking about good things can lift everyone's spirits.
  2. As we prepare for important events, like elections, it helps to focus on what brings us hope. Small acts of kindness or good news can make a big difference.
  3. Encouraging open discussions about hope can help create a supportive community. Everyone's perspective on good news matters and can inspire others.

The Zohran Mamdani Machine

Political Currents by Ross Barkan • 13 implied HN points • 16 Dec 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections
  1. Huey Long shows how a charismatic, mid-30s populist can overthrow entrenched elites and quickly deliver massive public works, schools, hospitals, and programs for the poor. He combined mass popularity with savvy use of media, patronage, and state power to get things done.
  2. Long’s record mixes real material gains with strongman tactics — intimidation, control of the press, patronage, and alleged fraud — which is why historians warn about demagoguery even as they acknowledge his achievements.
  3. Zohran Mamdani arrives with a rare mass base and has tried a coalition-building, accommodationist approach with elites, but to realize big social-democratic reforms he may eventually need to wield both carrots and sticks while operating within the limits of mayoral and state power.

American Psycho

Slack Tide by Matt Labash • 261 implied HN points • 15 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections
  1. It's important to stay calm during chaotic times, especially when others are panicking. Keeping a level head can help you think clearly.
  2. Donald Trump is being described as authoritarian and dangerous, suggesting that his behavior and words reflect a serious threat to democracy.
  3. There's a concern among some Christians about praying for Trump to lead America back to God. The idea is that God doesn't need Trump; rather, it could be a sign of divine discontent with society.

CROSSPOST: 23 Economics Nobel Prize Winners for Kamala Harris

Brad DeLong's Grasping Reality • 238 implied HN points • 31 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections
  1. Many Nobel Prize winners in economics believe Kamala Harris would be better for the economy than Donald Trump. They think her ideas will strengthen the middle class and promote fairness.
  2. Harris's economic agenda focuses on enhancing competition and creating job opportunities. These policies are seen as more beneficial for the country's overall economic health.
  3. In contrast, Trump's policies are viewed as harmful, leading to higher prices and greater inequality. Experts worry that his actions could jeopardize essential economic stability.

Links to Consider, 11/8/2024

In My Tribe • 227 implied HN points • 08 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections
  1. Bond markets are reacting to expected inflation, not a debt crisis. This means mortgage rates could rise even if the Fed lowers interest rates.
  2. People notice race because they are naturally group-oriented. Racism stems from our tribal instincts, but it's not built into our thinking.
  3. Fertility rates are dropping worldwide, possibly linked to how technology affects social connections. Research is needed to understand this trend better.

Potty Gate

Diane Francis • 479 implied HN points • 11 Aug 22
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections
  1. Trump allegedly flushed important documents down a toilet, which is against the law since they are property of the public.
  2. The FBI searched Trump's home for missing classified documents, leading to concerns about national security.
  3. Trump's legal troubles include many allegations of crimes and mishandling of records, which could impact his ability to hold office again.

Dingus of the week: Sen. Katie Britt

Men Yell at Me • 485 implied HN points • 08 Mar 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections
  1. The newsletter criticizes Sen. Katie Britt for her approach to women's issues and political tactics.
  2. Republicans' focus on certain social issues, like domestic violence and immigration, is highlighted.
  3. The newsletter also shares positive news, like indigenous language preservation and job opportunities.

Babe wake up we’re sharing our fears

Both Are True • 232 implied HN points • 05 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections
  1. Sharing our fears can create a sense of connection and community. It's important to talk about what we're scared of with others instead of keeping it all inside.
  2. Many people, regardless of their background or beliefs, have deep fears about the future. Recognizing that we all share fears can help us understand each other better.
  3. Feeling scared in a society can affect everyone, and it's crucial to remember that our votes are about creating a more stable and less fearful environment for everyone.

The Musk-a16z administration

Alex's Personal Blog • 230 implied HN points • 14 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections
  1. Inflation is slowing down, which is good news, but there are still bumps to deal with. It makes it less of a worry than before.
  2. Elon Musk seems to have a big role in the Trump administration, influencing political decisions and interactions. His support is seen as a key factor in Trump's election success.
  3. Despite concerns about AI development hitting a wall, there is optimism from leaders like Sam Altman at OpenAI, indicating that progress continues.

kitten corner: scooping the media

bad cattitude • 223 implied HN points • 12 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections
  1. The Democratic National Committee is not planning to buy CNN. They feel like they've owned it long enough and it hasn't worked well.
  2. An insider shared a funny quote about Anderson Cooper, suggesting it's time for someone else to deal with him.
  3. This is an ongoing story that has people curious about the future of CNN and how it will change hands.

Biden Pardon Open Thread

eugyppius: a plague chronicle • 215 implied HN points • 02 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections
  1. President Biden pardoned his son Hunter, ending his legal troubles related to tax evasion and gun possession. Biden believes these charges were politically motivated.
  2. Biden had previously denied he would pardon Hunter, but he's now acting to support him after facing pressure from political opponents. This situation highlights a discrepancy between what was said publicly and what was considered privately.
  3. The pardon could have broader implications, possibly giving other politicians like Donald Trump a moral reason to pardon their supporters in similar situations.

Virginia's culture warrior attorney general

The Watch • 550 implied HN points • 06 Jan 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections
  1. Virginia's attorney general Miyares prioritized culture war issues like crime and anti-woke-ism.
  2. Miyares disbanded the Conviction Integrity Unit, affecting potential wrongful convictions in Virginia.
  3. Despite being elected narrowly, Miyares has used his office to push his own values on a generally opposing electorate.

Why I'm voting for Donald J. Trump

Unreported Truths • 240 implied HN points • 02 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections
  1. Donald Trump may not be perfect, but some people believe the country needs change from the current political situation.
  2. Many feel that the Democratic Party is pushing policies that limit free speech and influence various social issues negatively.
  3. Despite concerns about Trump and his actions, some supporters appreciate his determination and willingness to campaign vigorously against the forces they believe are unfairly targeting him.

Dazed and Confused: Getting the Most out of Election Day Coverage

The DisInformation Chronicle • 225 implied HN points • 05 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections
  1. When following election coverage, it's important to read from a variety of sources to get a balanced view. This helps you avoid bias and misinformation.
  2. Be careful with fact-checkers and mainstream media, as they may not always provide accurate or objective information. It's good to question what you hear.
  3. Alternative media can also be misleading, so approach it with caution. Look for trustworthy sources to get the truth.

When the Clock Broke

Comment is Freed • 85 implied HN points • 09 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections
  1. The 1992 election marked a turning point in American politics, showing early signs of the divisive tactics that would become prominent in later years, especially under Trump. Candidates like Pat Buchanan and Ross Perot tapped into a combo of anti-establishment sentiment and hard-right ideas.
  2. There are intriguing connections between past political figures like Ross Perot and current players like Elon Musk, especially in how they portray themselves as outsiders while being reliant on state support. Their approach tends to overlook traditional political structures.
  3. To move forward, political leaders need to craft new solutions that resonate with the public. The focus should be on building a more inclusive political vision, rather than just responding to crises and defending the status quo.

America's Gerontocracy

Diane Francis • 479 implied HN points • 01 Aug 22
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections
  1. Many Americans believe Biden and Trump are too old to run for president again in 2024. People are concerned about age and its impact on leadership.
  2. Experience and wisdom can be valuable in politics, so having older leaders isn't always seen as a bad thing. Older leaders can bring a lot of knowledge and connections.
  3. Potential younger candidates, like Gavin Newsom and Ron DeSantis, are emerging as strong contenders for future elections. The political scene is getting competitive as they take on key issues and position themselves.

Under the fog of war, Ukraine cancels its 2024 presidential elections

The Dossier • 477 implied HN points • 20 Feb 24
🌍 World Politics Elections
  1. Ukraine canceled its 2024 presidential elections under the cover of war and extended Martial Law, transforming into a totalitarian dictatorship.
  2. The Ukrainian government's actions have led to the removal of opposition parties, the ban of non-state media, and increased centralized power, eroding democratic principles.
  3. An adviser critical of Zelensky faced a criminal investigation, and all dissent from the pro-war narrative leads to scrutiny or worse, showing the severe restrictions on freedom of speech and political opposition in Ukraine.

Master Diplomats Biden and Blinken: A Case Study in Professional Class Screwups

Michael Tracey • 171 implied HN points • 20 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections
  1. Biden and Blinken faced criticism for their approach to diplomacy, with many saying they failed to connect with other nations effectively. Their methods often seemed to worsen U.S. relationships, especially with countries like China.
  2. Biden's emphasis on rallying support for Ukraine was seen as a low bar for success. He admitted that his policies heightened nuclear risks, which raises concerns about their effectiveness in avoiding major conflicts.
  3. Despite some positive views on the Afghanistan withdrawal, Biden's handling of the situation led to a significant drop in his approval ratings. Many believe he struggled to communicate the positives of this decision.

Trump’s choice in Ukraine: make peace, or ‘crush the Russians’

Aaron Mate • 176 implied HN points • 12 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections
  1. Trump wants to make peace in Ukraine and plans to meet with Putin to discuss it. He believes the conflict needs to be resolved as it’s become a disaster.
  2. This approach is very different from the current U.S. administration, which is hesitant to engage with Russia diplomatically.
  3. While many view Russia's actions as aggressive, Trump thinks there should be a conversation to find a resolution rather than continuing the war.

Why You Should Ignore All the Polls

The Ruffian • 227 implied HN points • 02 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections
  1. Polls don't really tell you what you need to know about elections. They can be misleading and don't account for many factors.
  2. When you feel tempted to constantly check election updates, try doing something else instead. Activities like walking or listening to music can make you feel better.
  3. No matter how informed you think you are, you can't predict the outcome of elections. It's better to accept uncertainty than stress about it.

As the Smears Go Passing By

Unpopular Front • 59 implied HN points • 16 Jul 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections
  1. Eric Adams has faced past allegations of antisemitism but has since worked to build relationships with Jewish communities in New York. His connections complicate current political debates about antisemitism and race.
  2. Zohran Mamdani is trying to distance himself from controversial comments that could be seen as antisemitic, showing a more careful approach than some past political figures. He represents a different vision for New York politics focused on unity rather than ethnic divisions.
  3. The political landscape in New York is changing, with shifting demographics affecting the power of Black communities. As older communities exit, new alliances, like those between Black and Orthodox groups, may be necessary to navigate future conflicts over resources and representation.

Once More Telling People That They Should Take Nate Silver for Their Guru on Questions in His Lane

Brad DeLong's Grasping Reality • 222 implied HN points • 27 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections
  1. Nate Silver is really good at understanding statistics and probabilities, so it's smart to listen to him when it comes to polls and predictions about elections.
  2. Billionaires don't know more about elections than anyone else; they often act based on their own interests and fears, not on secret insights.
  3. When looking at elections, focus on the polls instead of billionaires' actions. Polls can give us a clearer picture of what might happen, even if they're not perfect.

Saturday Commentary and Review #180

Fisted by Foucault • 199 implied HN points • 30 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections
  1. Populism is on the rise due to many people feeling left behind by the system. This is especially true for the middle class, who are struggling to maintain their living standards amid economic changes.
  2. The failures of liberal democracy have led to a distrust of elites and institutions. Events like the 2008 financial crisis and the COVID-19 pandemic showed that many people's lives are worsening, making them more receptive to populist ideas.
  3. Some political movements have broken away from traditional left-right ideologies. In many cases, both sides have ignored the working class, which has opened the door for new political expressions and movements.

Leaning into joy and community

Tech and Tea • 213 implied HN points • 11 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections
  1. Finding joy in small things, like spending time with babies or pets, can really lift your spirits. Their happiness is often infectious and helps bring comfort during tough times.
  2. Enjoying comfort food can be a great source of solace. Sharing meals that remind you of home or trying simple snacks can help create a cozy atmosphere.
  3. Being part of a community, like the Buy Nothing group, can offer support and connection. Exchanging items without the pressure of conversation can foster a sense of belonging.

Silver Bulletin pollster ratings 2025 archive

Silver Bulletin • 6 implied HN points • 14 Jan 26
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections
  1. Pollsters are ranked by historical accuracy and transparency using a Predictive Plus-Minus score that is converted to letter grades. A negative plus-minus means the pollster is expected to be more accurate than average.
  2. The ratings use multiple measures — simple and advanced plus-minus, mean-reverted bias, house effects, and an ADPA herding penalty — and give bonuses for transparency like AAPOR or Roper Center sharing. These metrics together adjust for sample size, timing, and how a poll compares to others.
  3. The archive was updated with hundreds of new polls from the 2024 presidential, congressional, and gubernatorial elections, and full datasets (pollster stats and raw polls) are available for download. The update shifted some ratings but the top pollsters remained largely the same.

Tulsi Gabbard confirmed; Trump threatens Gaza ceasefire

Aaron Mate • 148 implied HN points • 12 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections
  1. Tulsi Gabbard is now in charge of US intelligence, despite previous criticisms about her views on intelligence. It's a surprising turn of events for someone who often went against mainstream narratives.
  2. Trump is putting pressure on the ceasefire deal in Gaza, which could have significant implications for the region. His stance may affect ongoing peace efforts.
  3. The discussion includes perspectives from various commentators, highlighting different views on these political developments. It's important to hear differing opinions for a better understanding of the situation.

PROJECT SYNDICATE: Misinformation Decided the U.S. Election

Brad DeLong's Grasping Reality • 207 implied HN points • 11 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections
  1. Many Trump supporters are good-hearted people who genuinely worry about the country's direction. They voted for him not out of hate, but because they care.
  2. There is a serious problem when a large portion of the public prefers misinformation. It makes it hard for democracy to thrive if people choose not to believe the facts.
  3. Democrats may struggle to connect with those who need to hear their messages. Republicans are encouraged to take responsibility in educating their supporters about the truth.

Weekend Update #116: One Day Until A New World: Case Study on Sanctions

Phillips’s Newsletter • 163 implied HN points • 19 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections
  1. Sanctions against Russia have toughened recently, making it harder for them to sell oil and damaging their economy. This could weaken their war efforts.
  2. Ukraine's attacks against Russia are increasing in frequency and coordination. They are successfully hitting key targets, which may give them an advantage.
  3. The war seems to be a race to see which side can keep fighting longer. While Ukraine fears running out of support, Russia is also showing signs of weakening, especially if Western aid continues.

Bogus Documents fueled the Russia Hoax

The Reactionary • 58 implied HN points • 23 Jul 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections
  1. New documents show that some claims about Russian interference in the 2016 election might not be trustworthy. These documents were said to be based on unreliable sources.
  2. The Intelligence Community Assessment (ICA) concluded that Russia helped Trump win, but it used questionable evidence to support this claim. Critics say the information was manipulated.
  3. There were various interpretations of key claims about Russia's motives, indicating that the intelligence may not be as clear-cut as once thought.

MAGA has Built a Castle of Lies, But it is Grounded on Two Truths

Phillips’s Newsletter • 170 implied HN points • 08 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections
  1. Presidents in the US have been increasingly cashing in on their positions over the last 50 years. It's become normal for them to make money after leaving office.
  2. Both major political parties have shared a troubling trend where past presidents and their families make large sums of money, often without clear expertise.
  3. Trump's approach amplifies and exaggerates a long-standing issue in politics, not something entirely new. It's about making an existing problem much more visible and lucrative.

Why I Hope Trump Will Win

eugyppius: a plague chronicle • 215 implied HN points • 05 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections
  1. The main issue in politics today is a big bureaucracy that keeps growing and makes things harder for everyone. This bureaucracy acts without clear control, making decisions that affect people negatively.
  2. Donald Trump is seen as a unique figure in politics because he openly challenges this bureaucratic system. He represents hope for those who want to push back against it.
  3. The problems caused by bureaucratic governance have been felt in many areas, like health and education. There is a desire for politicians to stand against this system and create a better future.

A Postmortem On Postmortems

Slack Tide by Matt Labash • 211 implied HN points • 12 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections
  1. People often feel confused and frustrated about political events. It can be hard to understand how things happen and why they affect us deeply.
  2. There's a sense of humor that can help us cope with current political chaos. Laughing about tough situations can be a way to deal with stress.
  3. Despite political problems, life continues with many important aspects outside of politics. Family, friends, and personal experiences still matter a lot.

The Election That Ended Liberalism.

JoeWrote • 214 implied HN points • 07 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections
  1. The recent election showed that centrist liberalism failed to meet the needs of voters. Many people wanted significant change but didn't feel inspired by the Democratic candidates.
  2. Blame for the loss was quickly placed on various external factors instead of accountability within the Democratic Party. This pattern of blaming others prevents real solutions from emerging.
  3. Voters want real change and are open to both progressive ideas and Trump's platform. If Democrats don't offer appealing solutions, people may turn to extremes for answers.