The hottest Elections Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
Category
Top World Politics Topics

WHAT WE DON'T KNOW ABOUT THE PRESIDENTS WE ELECT

Seymour Hersh • 83 implied HN points • 17 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections
  1. Presidents can be surprising; it's hard to know if they will promote peace or conflict. Actions can differ from what they say during elections.
  2. Former presidents can influence current events, and new leaders may work together for peace despite their past differences.
  3. Historical examples show that popular figures may not always act in ways that align with their public personas. It's important to critically assess their actions.

Tech's New Right

Diane Francis • 259 implied HN points • 02 Jun 22
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections
  1. Peter Thiel is gaining attention as a key supporter of the Republican Party. He's helping to influence politics by backing certain candidates.
  2. Thiel is the biggest donor for the Republican mid-term elections this year. He's focused on removing GOP members who disagree with him.
  3. His approach is similar to other wealthy figures in tech, like Bill Gates and Elon Musk, but he aims to make a bigger mark in politics.

Open Thread #34 - This One's On You

Fisted by Foucault • 88 implied HN points • 31 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections
  1. People are making predictions about major world events for 2025, like the situation in Ukraine and the conflict in Syria. It's interesting to hear different opinions on what's coming up.
  2. There's also a focus on US politics and issues like immigration and the influence of 'wokeness.' These topics can shape the political landscape significantly.
  3. In personal news, people are reflecting on their New Year's resolutions and what entertainment they're looking forward to. It shows how individuals set goals and enjoy life as the new year begins.

Two Elections, Two Woke Defeats: But Only One Victory

Anxiety Addiction & Ascension • 59 implied HN points • 17 Oct 23
🌍 World Politics Elections
  1. Both the Australian and New Zealand left-wing establishments faced defeats, but only one outcome was a true victory for the common people.
  2. In the complex web of politics, distinctions between parties often amount to little real change for regular working and middle-class individuals.
  3. Referendums can provide a clearer reflection of the collective voice of the people, as seen with the significant 'No' vote in Australia's Indigenous Voice to Parliament Referendum.

August 11, 2025

Letters from an American • 25 implied HN points • 12 Aug 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections
  1. Trump announced he is taking control of the D.C. police and deploying federal agents to address crime, despite crime rates already being low. This action raises concerns about government overreach and the use of troops against civilians.
  2. Many believe Trump is consolidating power similar to authoritarian regimes, using crime as a pretext while diverting attention from other issues. Strategies employed include involving the military in law enforcement and creating a perception of fear.
  3. Trump's erratic behavior and cognitive health are increasingly apparent, raising doubts about his leadership. His administration appears to be advancing a controversial agenda, seen as a potential threat to civil liberties and democratic norms.
Get a weekly roundup of the best Substack posts, by hacker news affinity:

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 Elections
  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.

Of course Donald Trump can (and should!) fire the federal prosecutors WHO TRIED TO SEND HIM TO PRISON

Unreported Truths • 79 implied HN points • 28 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections
  1. Donald Trump has the right to fire federal prosecutors who worked against him. No one should be forced to keep workers who openly oppose them.
  2. The actions of special counsel Jack Smith were seen as aggressive and politically motivated, raising concerns about fairness in law enforcement.
  3. Prosecutors should have resigned in protest if they disagreed with the political tactics used, but since they stayed, they may have lost their right to work in a future Trump administration.

I'm going to run for president

Basta’s Notes • 81 implied HN points • 19 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections
  1. Consumer goods packaging is often really hard to open, and people are tired of it. Many everyday items come with frustrating seals and tabs that don't work properly.
  2. The packaging issue seems to come from companies not caring about their customers. Some brands even do a great job, showing that it is possible to make easy-to-open products.
  3. Basta's campaign idea focuses on fixing packaging to make it user-friendly. It taps into a common frustration shared by many people, making it a relatable issue.

Dangerous as Hell

The Cosmopolitan Globalist • 69 implied HN points • 17 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections
  1. Elon Musk is gaining too much control over government systems, which can disrupt democracy and is seen as dangerous. He is acting like a private ruler rather than a businessman.
  2. This situation mirrors historical examples where companies became more powerful than the government, leading to potential abuse of power. Musk's control over critical governmental functions raises alarms about accountability.
  3. There are serious risks to national security due to Musk and his associates accessing sensitive information without proper checks. This could lead to manipulation of vital systems and data that protect public safety.

A FUTURE GAZA WITHOUT GAZANS

Seymour Hersh • 29 implied HN points • 24 Jul 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections
  1. A new plan for Gaza is proposed by Israel's religious right, aiming for a future without the current Palestinian residents. This plan is presented as a vision for a nicer Gaza, but it ignores the lives of people living there.
  2. Key figures in this meeting include controversial leaders known for their extreme views on settlements and anti-Arab actions. Their influence raises concerns about the implications of such plans for peace and coexistence.
  3. Military leaders also support ideas of annexing parts of Gaza, which could further escalate tensions in the region. The focus seems to be more on security than on resolving the humanitarian crisis affecting many.

What I Fear Most in 2024

startupdreams • 211 implied HN points • 18 Mar 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections
  1. 2024 is anticipated to be a contentious Presidential election year in the United States, likely leading to division and potential unrest.
  2. The aftermath of the 2024 election is a concern, with fears of riots or discord regardless of the election outcome.
  3. The hope is for a clear and undisputed election result to avoid the uncertainties and tensions that arose in the 2020 election.

An Unreported Truths reader sums up the last 72 hours and reminds us why Donald Trump is not Joe Biden (thankfully)

Unreported Truths • 36 implied HN points • 24 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections
  1. Donald Trump made a bold move against Iran, believing they were weaker than they appeared. This risk seems to be paying off for him so far.
  2. There's a sense that Trump's confident attitude is a major part of his leadership style. Some people appreciate this approach as being strong and decisive.
  3. The writer mentions various topics that are important right now, highlighting a busy political atmosphere with potential issues for the Democrats.

URGENT: Biden pardons Fauci

Unreported Truths • 80 implied HN points • 20 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections
  1. Biden pardoned Fauci, raising questions about why someone who did not commit a crime needs a pardon. Many wonder if this is protecting him from accountability.
  2. The pardons given by Biden, including for Fauci, are seen as a misuse of presidential power and could lead to more distrust in public health officials.
  3. There is a feeling that investigations into the origins of Covid and the actions taken during the pandemic are crucial, and the pardons might hinder the pursuit of truth.

Trump's Trick or Tweet

Diane Francis • 379 implied HN points • 01 Nov 21
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections
  1. Donald Trump is using his famous name to create a new social media platform. This move is seen as a risky threat to American democracy.
  2. He has raised a lot of money for this project by taking advantage of legal loopholes. This makes people question the fairness of the financial system.
  3. The situation highlights concerns about how some public figures can manipulate rules for personal gain. It raises alarms about trust and transparency in business.

Labour and the challenge of coherence

Comment is Freed • 81 implied HN points • 12 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections
  1. The Labour party is struggling to make progress in government, facing frustrations from both members and leadership. This has been made tougher by external challenges like fiscal issues and global tensions.
  2. Keir Starmer, the leader, prefers practical decision-making over deep philosophical discussions, but this can hinder a clear direction for governance. Without guiding principles, it's hard for his team to make confident decisions.
  3. There's a lot of activity within the government, but it lacks a coherent strategy. Different departments may have conflicting agendas, which can lead to confusion and ineffective use of resources.

Chapter 2: What YIMBYs Actually Do | Building YIMBYs of NoVA

Cornerstone • 59 implied HN points • 05 May 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections
  1. YIMBY organizations focus on grassroots activism, engaging everyday people in advocating for policies that increase housing supply.
  2. YIMBY groups engage in different types of advocacy, including grassroots activism, grasstops advocacy, electoral politics, and advocacy through the news media.
  3. Having a clear campaign or 'MacGuffin' to organize around is crucial for YIMBY groups, helping them rally support, increase visibility, and drive their advocacy efforts.

Can a new Democratic order address the American Crisis?

America in Crisis • 59 implied HN points • 19 Aug 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections
  1. The distribution of wealth between political parties impacts addressing issues like inequality, politics, and climate change.
  2. Historical patterns indicate a potential shift towards a new Democratic dispensation in the US political landscape.
  3. Economic factors, like job creation and inflation control, play crucial roles in shaping future electoral outcomes and party dynamics.

Sundowning in America: A Series: Part III

Brad DeLong's Grasping Reality • 107 implied HN points • 25 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections
  1. Donald Trump is seen as promoting dangerous ideas that intimidate his political opponents, which may influence some Republican leaders but not everyone.
  2. Despite hosting a rally at Madison Square Garden, he couldn't fill the venue, signaling a potential decline in support.
  3. There are concerns about Trump's mental state as he often makes confusing statements, leading to doubts about his capability to lead.

On Day 2 of His Presidency, Donald Trump Fired a Bazooka Directly Into the Faces of His Voters

Proof • 75 implied HN points • 22 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections
  1. Many supporters feel that their values and expectations were ignored by Donald Trump early in his presidency. It seems like the decisions made didn't align with what voters wanted.
  2. The first few days of Trump's presidency were filled with actions that caught many voters off guard. This created a sense of betrayal among his supporters.
  3. Overall, the reactions to Trump's early actions highlight a disconnect between what his supporters hoped for and what he delivered right after taking office.

Briefly Noted

Unpopular Front • 35 implied HN points • 12 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections
  1. Trump's idea of rebuilding America mixes old protectionist ideas with modern technology. This mix shows a deep desire to return to a past way of doing things while ignoring the advancements of the Enlightenment.
  2. Trump represents both wealth and the chaos of financial failure. His life story reflects a bigger story about America, blending success with economic downturns.
  3. To understand Trump and his influence, it's important to look at his financial struggles and how they match up with the nation's challenges. His rise is tied to a deeper sense of despair in American politics.

The Hon. Amb. Dr. Harald Malmgren Passed....

Dr. Pippa's Pen & Podcast • 66 implied HN points • 24 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections
  1. Dr. Harald Malmgren was a significant figure, advising many U.S. presidents and global leaders throughout his career. His insights shaped policy during critical historical moments, including the Cuban Missile Crisis.
  2. He had a deep connection with his daughter, who spent meaningful time with him in his later years. Their relationship evolved, allowing them to reconnect and share important experiences right before his passing.
  3. As she navigates her grief, his daughter plans to pause her writing and embark on a spiritual pilgrimage, reflecting their discussions on the importance of spiritual growth as technology advances.

"Shares My Values" is the Political Master Key

I Might Be Wrong • 10 implied HN points • 06 Nov 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections
  1. Voters mainly care about the economy, so candidates focusing on serious economic issues often win more support. Culture war topics, like transgender issues, might seem less important to most voters.
  2. Candidates who seem too focused on culture wars can appear frivolous and out of touch with voters' real concerns. This can damage their credibility and trustworthiness.
  3. It's crucial for candidates to show they share the values of the voters. If people believe a candidate aligns with their concerns and priorities, they're more likely to support them.

Why I Am Voting for Trump

Natural Selections • 107 implied HN points • 29 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections
  1. Trump is independent and doesn't answer to the old power structures in politics. Many people prefer his honesty over politicians who seem insincere.
  2. He is focused on health, including food safety and pharmaceutical practices. The idea is to support real, science-based approaches instead of relying on big companies.
  3. Trump's policies during his first term led to better job creation and a focus on small businesses, which many believe is crucial for American families and the economy.

American Un-Exceptionalism

Diane Francis • 559 implied HN points • 11 Feb 21
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections
  1. Many American politicians ignore important issues, focusing instead on their own political gain. This shows a lack of responsibility and awareness of their duties as leaders.
  2. America's political leaders often don't compare well to those in other countries, ignoring that other nations provide better living standards and education for their citizens.
  3. The concept of 'American exceptionalism' is fading because the U.S. is not living up to its potential. The country can do better by learning from successful practices in other developed nations.

Episode 94: The New Normal

Disaffected Newsletter • 179 implied HN points • 13 Nov 22
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections
  1. The mid-term elections may involve crazy voters or cheating; both possibilities need to be considered.
  2. It's important to distinguish between feeling like a victim and actually being victimized, as the difference can change how we view issues.
  3. Public indecency has become common in society, which makes it hard to understand the current state of the American electorate.

Come Ask me a Question on my Post-Election Livestream Q&A

The Chris Hedges Report • 101 implied HN points • 06 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections
  1. There's a livestream event where you can ask questions after an election. This is a chance to get direct answers and share your thoughts.
  2. The platform encourages readers to support by subscribing either for free or with payment. This helps keep the conversation going.
  3. The post is meant to engage readers and get them involved in important discussions. It's a good opportunity to connect with the ideas being shared.

Gerrymeandering

Diane Francis • 519 implied HN points • 29 Mar 21
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections
  1. In Australia, voting is mandatory, and this leads to a very high voter turnout of about 94%. People can vote by mail or at mobile stations if they live in remote areas.
  2. In the U.S., gerrymandering unfairly shapes voting districts to give one party an advantage. This has been happening for centuries and often leads to unequal representation in government.
  3. Recent efforts to suppress voting and manipulate district boundaries threaten democracy. Many Americans support laws that aim to protect voting rights, but obstacles remain.

The Shape of Things To Come

God's Spies by Thomas Neuburger • 100 implied HN points • 14 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections
  1. Voters feel that the Democratic Party no longer represents the working class, leading to a sense of distrust. Many are struggling economically and expect more from their leaders.
  2. Democratic leaders deny that they have abandoned workers and continue to focus on fundraising, which creates wealth for politicians and affects their ability to serve the public.
  3. Both political parties are stuck in a cycle of shifting populist candidates without making real changes to help people. This pattern could continue unless a new party emerges that truly addresses the needs of everyday citizens.

MAJOR BREAKING NEWS: The So-Called “Department of Government Efficiency” Is An Immediate, Acute Constitutional Crisis

Proof • 97 implied HN points • 13 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections
  1. There is a serious situation involving the new 'Department of Government Efficiency' that may threaten the Constitution. This has sparked major concerns about the stability of the government.
  2. Some recent Cabinet nominations made by Trump have raised eyebrows, but the bigger issue is the potential crisis this department is causing. It's making many people feel uneasy about the future.
  3. Overall, the developments are seen as a critical moment for America, highlighting fears about the direction of governance and the implications for democracy.

My Hot Election Take Is That We Probably Didn’t Learn Much

I Might Be Wrong • 10 implied HN points • 05 Nov 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections
  1. Many people twist election results to fit their own ideas, making them seem more important than they really are. It's like saying every result proves your side is right, even if that’s not true.
  2. Commentators often make election nights sound more exciting than they are to grab attention. Instead of saying nothing much happened, they focus on the drama to keep viewers engaged.
  3. It seems like we didn’t learn anything new from the latest elections. The outcomes might not change much in the long run, so it can feel a bit boring.

Commentator

Castalia • 99 implied HN points • 12 Apr 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections
  1. Recent intelligence leaks have raised concerns about U.S. spying and the ongoing challenges in the Ukraine war. The leaked documents suggest Ukraine may face limitations in its offensive capabilities.
  2. There is a growing movement against AI development, with some tech leaders and countries calling for a pause due to potential risks. Many feel that AI could severely impact society if not managed properly.
  3. The Tennessee State Legislature's recent expulsions of two lawmakers over a gun control protest highlights deep political divisions. This event shows significant tension in democratic processes and raises questions about the legitimacy of current governing bodies.

BIWEEKLY BRIEFLY NOTED: For 2024-12-18 Sa

Brad DeLong's Grasping Reality • 84 implied HN points • 19 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections
  1. Automation and AI are changing jobs in many industries. It could either lead to job losses or new kinds of jobs, just like what happened with tractors in farming a century ago.
  2. Students find it easier to ask ChatGPT questions instead of going to a teacher. This could mean they get less accurate answers, which is a concern for education.
  3. Economic forecasts are changing with the Federal Reserve adjusting interest rates. It’s an important factor for understanding the overall economy and its direction.

Coping with Trump

Comment is Freed • 77 implied HN points • 14 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections
  1. Allies of the U.S. found it tough to deal with Trump during his first term, facing challenges in asserting their values against his right-wing stance.
  2. The relationship between Trump and leaders like Merkel showed a clash of confidence, with leaders trying to stand firm against his policies.
  3. Currently, due to changing global circumstances, allies are likely to take a less confrontational approach if Trump returns to power.

Should Zohran Actually Keep Tisch?

Political Currents by Ross Barkan • 9 implied HN points • 14 Nov 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections
  1. Zohran Mamdani is considering keeping Jessica Tisch as the NYPD police commissioner. She's well-liked among the business community and has some experience with reform.
  2. Tisch's views on criminal justice are more conservative than Mamdani's, especially regarding cash bail and other reforms. This difference might create tension between them.
  3. Past mayors have managed similar situations, suggesting that Mamdani may keep Tisch for at least two years despite their contrasts in political views.

August 12, 2025

Letters from an American • 23 implied HN points • 13 Aug 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections
  1. Trump is trying to distract people from serious issues, like his connection to Epstein, by making flashy comments about the Kennedy Center.
  2. There are rising inflation rates and layoffs happening in the U.S., which are causing concern about the economy.
  3. Some leaders, like Governor Newsom, are pushing back hard against Trump's actions, warning him to stop trying to manipulate elections and power.

The Second Truth: The Unhealthy Aristocracizing of US Politics

Phillips’s Newsletter • 77 implied HN points • 16 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections
  1. US politics has become dominated by wealthy families, changing the purpose of political parties. This means parties are now more about personal gain than serving the public.
  2. Since the 1980s, there has been significant corruption and financial gain among political leaders, resulting in an unhealthy system.
  3. Past political dynasties, like the Adamses and Roosevelts, operated differently and were less about family legacy compared to recent political families.

The Most Important Election of My Lifetime…Again

Skeptic • 101 implied HN points • 31 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections
  1. Many people think each election is the most important one ever. But in reality, life goes on regardless of who wins, and drastic changes often don't happen.
  2. Both sides of the political spectrum have made wild claims about leaving the country if their candidate loses. Most of these statements are just empty threats and not meant to be taken seriously.
  3. It’s important to remember that people from the other party aren't enemies; they are fellow Americans. We can disagree but still work together for a better future.

Jack Smith seeks to dismiss the cases against Trump

The Reactionary • 93 implied HN points • 25 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections
  1. Jack Smith wants to dismiss the criminal cases against Trump, saying that a sitting president can't be prosecuted. This means Trump might not face these charges anymore.
  2. The Supreme Court decided that Trump is immune from being prosecuted for some actions he took as president. This ruling was a big win for Trump.
  3. If the cases are dismissed without being able to be filed again, there could be questions about the Statute of Limitations and future prosecutions. Trump may want to pardon himself to avoid any future legal troubles.