The hottest Governance Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
Category
Top Technology Topics

What if super AI happens during Trump's presidency?

Faster, Please! • 91 implied HN points • 06 Mar 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Policy Governance Technology AI
  1. The idea of super AI becoming a reality during Trump's presidency is being discussed, but it wasn't a major issue in the 2024 election. People might start hearing more about it in the future.
  2. Experts believe we could see very capable AI systems soon, possibly during Trump's second term. This could change how we think about jobs and technology in our daily lives.
  3. As AI technology advances, it will be important for government leaders to plan for its impact. Understanding how AI will affect society should be a priority right now.

Socialism Wins Its American Normandy

TK News by Matt Taibbi • 9923 implied HN points • 25 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Socialism Governance Political Movements Public Policy
  1. Zohran Mamdani's win in NYC's mayoral primary is seen as a significant moment for socialism in America. It suggests a growing political rivalry between socialist ideas and other viewpoints.
  2. Mamdani has proposed bold changes like rent freezes and free public services. His ideas aim to address economic injustices and make life easier for New Yorkers.
  3. This election marks a shift where younger voters and their parents are more open to socialist views. It's creating a new wave of political thinking that could reshape future elections.

The Oracle Mouths Off, Part 2

In the Writing Burrow • 6068 implied HN points • 16 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Electoral Politics Political violence Governance Civil Rights Political Movements
  1. If Trump wins, he may start targeting any Republicans who disagree with him, and even some Democrats. This could lead to a lot of conflict and violence.
  2. Trump could use the National Guard and Army for his own purposes, potentially creating a dangerous situation for those who oppose him.
  3. There's concern that leaders like Vance might have broader, more fanatical plans that could hurt many people, including women, under strict ideologies.

Will civil servants guard against illiberal power grabs?

Can We Still Govern? • 109 implied HN points • 01 Jul 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Democracy Governance Bureaucracy Civil Service Populism
  1. Civil servants may not always oppose undemocratic policies. Their views vary based on their political beliefs and affiliations.
  2. When civil servants see proposed changes as threats, they often consider quitting their jobs rather than resisting, reflecting their desire to maintain their integrity.
  3. In polarized societies, bureaucracies may fail to act as neutral defenders of democracy because their members have differing opinions on what's harmful to democracy.

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.
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Two Cheers for the Democratic Establishment?

Richard Hanania's Newsletter • 3706 implied HN points • 28 May 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Governance Political parties Political Ethics Media
  1. Biden's leadership has faced criticism due to his declining health, but it’s important to compare how the Democratic establishment handles challenges versus the Republican side. The Dems seem to prioritize accountability and ethics more.
  2. Even when Democrats make mistakes, the ethical standards they follow make them different from leaders like Trump. They seem to genuinely care about the rule of law, unlike some in the Republican party.
  3. It's crucial to recognize that while both sides have flaws, the Democratic establishment has dealt with its issues more honestly. We shouldn’t ignore their mistakes, but we also shouldn't pretend they're as severe as the problems on the other side.

New York Democrats Go Socialist. Plus. . .

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 1168 implied HN points • 25 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Governance Legislation Political parties Public Policy
  1. Zohran Mamdani, a socialist, won the Democratic primary for mayor of New York City. His proposals include big changes like government-run grocery stores and a freeze on rent.
  2. Mamdani has strong views on police and foreign policy, proposing to defund the NYPD and calling Israel 'apartheid'.
  3. His surprising victory against former governor Andrew Cuomo shows changes happening in New York's political landscape.

Our Picks of the Week: War, Peace, and TikTok Jacobins

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 533 implied HN points • 27 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Policy Governance Political parties International relations
  1. Recent U.S. and Israeli military actions have raised questions about the effectiveness of striking Iran's nuclear program, suggesting that damage might only delay their progress for a short while.
  2. A Democratic socialist candidate, Zohran Mamdani, won the New York City mayoral primary by connecting with voters looking for change, demonstrating the growing appeal of progressive ideas.
  3. Daniel Lurie, a new mayor in San Francisco, aims to undo policies that have led to city problems, focusing on practical solutions rather than ideology to address major issues.

Gov. Gretchen Whitmer joins the boys and men party

Of Boys and Men • 465 implied HN points • 27 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Governance Education Gender Issues Economic Policy
  1. Governors are starting to focus on the challenges young men face today. They are discussing issues like housing and education that especially impact young men.
  2. Gretchen Whitmer highlighted specific gender gaps in home buying and education in her recent speech. She plans to take action to help increase men's participation in higher education.
  3. This is a significant move from a female leader known for advocating women's rights. It shows that improving opportunities for both genders is important and not a competition.

Why Gavin Newsom Will Never Be President

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 3514 implied HN points • 11 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Governance Political strategy Media influence Public Opinion
  1. Gavin Newsom is trying to elevate his political status, especially during conflicts with President Trump. He used a recent speech to push his narrative as a leader against Trump's policies.
  2. In his speech, Newsom made several statements that were criticized as dishonest or misleading. These claims were seen as attempts to manipulate public opinion about immigration enforcement.
  3. The reaction to Newsom's messages indicates that many voters are skeptical of his claims. People are looking closely at the truth behind political narratives.

Supermarket Tycoon Warns He’ll Close Down Shops if Mamdani Wins

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 1641 implied HN points • 18 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Governance Political Leaders Public Opinion Economic Policy
  1. Business leaders are concerned about the impact on the economy if Zohran Mamdani becomes mayor. They worry that losing wealthy individuals could harm the city's tax revenue.
  2. John Catsimatidis, a prominent businessman, indicated he might move his business out of New York if Mamdani wins. He feels that a change in leadership could make New York less favorable for business.
  3. Some business owners are seriously considering relocating to avoid the policies of a socialist mayor, suggesting that political decisions can greatly affect business operations and residents' livelihoods.

War Games

KERFUFFLE • 75 implied HN points • 16 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics War Propaganda Public Opinion Governance Foreign Policy
  1. In the past, wars were mainly fought by nobles and kings, and most ordinary people didn't really feel their impact. Only those directly involved, like conscripted soldiers or victims of invasions, had a personal stake in these conflicts.
  2. With modern warfare, everyone has a role because governments mobilize entire populations. Propaganda became essential to get the public's support, especially when fighting wars that did not directly threaten their everyday lives.
  3. Now, the justifications for war often feel disconnected from the average person's reality. Many people sense that current conflicts are driven more by the interests of powerful leaders rather than genuine threats to their lives.

A Decade of Donald Trump

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 867 implied HN points • 16 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Governance Campaigns Political Commentary Public Opinion
  1. Donald Trump's announcement to run for president in 2015 shocked many, despite initial low polling numbers. He had a strong ability to attract attention and rally supporters.
  2. Trump quickly became the main focus of political news, shaping discussions and setting the agenda for the following years.
  3. Even after a decade, Trump hasn't changed much in style, though he has aged and adapted his approach, remaining a significant figure in politics.

Top Links 764 The assault on foreign students in the US. The Palantir bubble & the Norman Conquest.

Chartbook • 500 implied HN points • 09 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Policy Education Immigration Economy Governance
  1. Foreign students are facing challenges in the US, which could impact a major part of the economy. This could change how international education works.
  2. There is a mention of the 'Palantir bubble', suggesting concerns about overvalued tech companies. It's a warning about the risks in the tech market.
  3. The reference to the 'Norman Conquest' might draw parallels between past events and current issues, hinting at significant social or political shifts.

The Rule of Idiots

The Chris Hedges Report • 1051 implied HN points • 06 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Democracy Governance Corruption Political theory Civil Rights
  1. In times of trouble for societies, foolish leaders often rise up. They reflect the society's own troubles and disconnect from reality.
  2. A failing government tends to serve the rich and powerful instead of its citizens. It loses its ability to protect the rights and needs of the people.
  3. When a society stops valuing honesty, the common good, and moral behavior, it begins to fall apart. Chaos and unethical actions replace order and integrity.

Andrew Cuomo Is Not Inevitable

Political Currents by Ross Barkan • 22 implied HN points • 03 Mar 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Governance Political parties Political Campaigns Public Policy
  1. Andrew Cuomo is running for mayor of New York City after resigning as governor. His past actions during the pandemic and political career are likely to come under scrutiny.
  2. Cuomo has a strong base and some successes in his past, but he needs to adapt to a more competitive primary environment. This campaign is different from his previous ones where he had all the power.
  3. Political dynamics are shifting, and while Cuomo was once seen as unassailable, he now faces significant challenges from both opponents and voter sentiment, especially regarding his past controversies.

Why Tim Walz Received an 'F' in Cato's Fiscal Report Card, Ranking Dead Last of 50 Governors

The Take (by Jon Miltimore) • 356 implied HN points • 21 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Governance Tax policy Fiscal Responsibility
  1. Tim Walz received an 'F' for poor fiscal management, ranking last among all US governors. His spending increased substantially while taxes were raised significantly.
  2. Despite a budget surplus of $18 billion, Walz overspent and added more taxes, which has led to predictions of future budget deficits for Minnesota.
  3. High-income earners are leaving Minnesota due to these fiscal policies, worsening the state's economy and reducing tax revenue as people seek better conditions in states with lower taxes.

Secession Is a Good Idea

Points And Figures • 1199 implied HN points • 09 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Secession Elections Governance Political parties Democracy
  1. Counties should have the option to secede if they want to join a neighboring state. This can help people live under laws and tax systems that better match their beliefs.
  2. Secession could create competition between states, encouraging them to improve their policies. If people can move to a state with lower taxes and better regulations, states might change to keep their residents.
  3. Allowing counties to secede could disrupt how political parties gerrymander districts. If counties leave, it could change which party has more influence in elections.

assessing the los angeles ICEcapades

bad cattitude • 246 implied HN points • 10 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Immigration Media Governance Public Opinion Political strategy
  1. Many people are frustrated with the way media portrays protests and riots, often downplaying violence. This makes it hard to trust what we see on TV.
  2. There's a feeling that immigration issues and safety are being ignored or mishandled by those in power, leading to unrest. People want clear solutions and accountability.
  3. A lot of folks are tired of political games and want straightforward discussions about issues affecting their communities. They hope for real change, not just protests for the sake of media attention.

Why Gavin Newsom Will Never Be President. The Only Solution on Immigration. Plus. . .

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 945 implied HN points • 12 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Immigration Governance Policy Public Opinion
  1. Gavin Newsom, the California governor, is trying to become a leader in immigration issues, but many believe he won't succeed in becoming president. His approach might backfire amidst rising protests.
  2. Donald Trump has strong public support on immigration and law enforcement issues. Some believe he should work towards a compromise to help resolve these heated topics.
  3. The AI revolution is growing quickly, and there's a question about whether we have enough power to keep up with this change. It's essential to consider how we will power this technology in the future.

OpenAI #10: Reflections

Don't Worry About the Vase • 4032 implied HN points • 07 Jan 25
🕹 Technology AI safety Governance Leadership Innovation Ethics
  1. Sam Altman had a surprising experience of being fired by his board, which he describes as a failure of governance. He learned that having a diverse and trustworthy board is important for good decision-making.
  2. Altman acknowledges the high turnover at OpenAI due to rapid growth and mentions that some colleagues have left to start competing companies. He understands that as they scale, people's interests naturally change.
  3. He believes that the best way to make AI safe is to gradually release it into the world while learning from experience. However, he admits that there are serious risks involved, especially with the future of superintelligent AI.

A German Political Primer Ahead of Tomorrow's Elections

eugyppius: a plague chronicle • 237 implied HN points • 22 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Political parties Political Systems Governance Political theory
  1. Germany has a complex party system with traditional parties like CDU/CSU and SPD facing challenges as new parties like AfD and Die Linke gain prominence. Understanding these dynamics helps explain current political tensions.
  2. The CDU/CSU and SPD have historically dominated German politics, but both are in decline now, with the AfD making significant gains by attracting discontented voters from these parties.
  3. The political landscape in Germany is shifting, with a growing divide between traditional parties and newcomers, which could lead to significant changes in governance if the current system can't adapt.

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.

NYC Congestion Pricing: Early Days

Don't Worry About the Vase • 2732 implied HN points • 14 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Policy Governance Transportation Infrastructure Public Opinion
  1. Congestion pricing in NYC means drivers now pay $9 to enter Manhattan below 60th Street. This fee is aimed at reducing traffic and will increase over time.
  2. Traffic in and around Manhattan has improved since congestion pricing started. Travel times through tunnels have dropped significantly, leading to less congestion overall.
  3. While some people support the changes, others feel negatively about them. There are concerns that fewer cars mean fewer people in some areas, impacting local businesses.

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.

Aerodrome - Uniswap Killer?

DeFi Education • 379 implied HN points • 22 Sep 24
🔮 Crypto DeFi Exchanges Blockchain Trading Governance
  1. Aerodrome Finance is a fast-growing decentralized exchange, mainly on Coinbase's Layer 2 called 'Base'.
  2. In just over a year, Aerodrome has attracted over 10,000 daily users and handles about $9 billion in trading each month.
  3. The platform is generating significant earnings, with annual trading fees exceeding $100 million.

AI Accelerationism Goes Global

Nonzero Newsletter • 384 implied HN points • 14 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Election Governance International relations Policy News
  1. There are serious concerns about the risks of artificial intelligence, especially with recent global discussions on how to manage it. Many leaders are focusing more on innovation than on safety, which could create big problems down the road.
  2. The ceasefire in Gaza is fragile, with threats from Hamas leading to worries about a return to war. President Trump's recent actions and ideas could be making it harder for peace to stick.
  3. Outrage in politics often comes from deep feelings of fear for safety. Understanding where others are coming from and sharing personal stories might help reduce anger and bring people together.

Eric Adams Is in Deep Sh*t

Glenn Loury • 535 implied HN points • 10 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Governance Public Policy Political Analysis Race relations
  1. Eric Adams is facing serious legal trouble, being the first sitting New York City mayor to be charged with a federal crime. This makes his situation quite unprecedented.
  2. He's attempting to use race as a defense strategy, but many are skeptical that will be effective. There seems to be a general belief that this approach won't help his case.
  3. Adams's time in office is viewed as lacking by many New Yorkers. There's a feeling that he might only serve one term due to his performance.

The Georgia Ballot

Erick Erickson's Confessions of a Political Junkie • 239 implied HN points • 17 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Legislation Governance Taxes Public Policy
  1. Voting yes on the constitutional amendment helps protect homeowners from having their property values tied to inflation. This means more consistent property taxes for everyone.
  2. Creating a statewide tax court will provide independent, expert help on tax issues, making the tax process fairer and more efficient.
  3. Raising the personal property tax exemption from $7,500 to $20,000 can provide financial relief to property owners. It's a good move for many families.

The Saturday Read: Ranks of the state

The Saturday Read • 379 implied HN points • 12 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Governance Political parties Public Opinion Policy Analysis
  1. Keir Starmer's Labour government has faced challenges and criticism in its first 100 days. Many people feel disappointed and distrustful of politicians, leading to low voter turnout.
  2. Morgan McSweeney, the new chief of staff, is expected to bring fresh ideas and help create a clearer direction for the government, particularly after recent scandals.
  3. Rachel Reeves's upcoming Budget is expected to be crucial for Labour's future. It could reshape the party's political strategy and address economic issues facing the country.

Top Links 753 Front-running European exports. The American transfer state. Troll farm hierarchy & the economics of motor-racing.

Chartbook • 472 implied HN points • 29 May 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Policy Economics Governance Society International
  1. European exports are being closely watched, possibly for trends or economic implications. It's important to stay updated on how they impact global trade.
  2. The idea of an American transfer state likely refers to the financial support systems in place within the U.S. Understanding this can help in grasping economic dynamics.
  3. There's a mention of troll farms and their organizational structure, highlighting the complexities of online information and influence. This can affect how we view digital communication.

SBSQ #17: How should you prepare for an AI future?

Silver Bulletin • 627 implied HN points • 31 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Political Analysis Political strategy Public Opinion Governance
  1. To prepare for an AI-driven future, it's important to start using AI tools now. This will help boost your productivity and give you a better understanding of how AI can be applied in your work.
  2. Stay informed about technology and finance news to understand the evolving job market. This knowledge can help you make smart investment decisions and navigate your career path more effectively.
  3. Focus on developing a mix of skills that includes analytical thinking, domain knowledge, and personal skills. Being well-rounded in these areas can make you more valuable in a competitive job environment impacted by AI.

The Pardons

Points And Figures • 1279 implied HN points • 20 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Governance Political parties Public Policy Political Commentary
  1. Biden's recent pardons can help Trump focus on positive actions instead of seeking revenge. This means Trump can start building things up rather than getting caught up in past issues.
  2. The pardons may lead to less media attention on major stories, allowing gossip and rumors to take the spotlight. It's a shift similar to what happened when Nixon was pardoned, making it easier for Trump to move forward.
  3. Trump could gain ground by being extremely open about past documents and issues. By releasing more information on various controversies, he could reshape public perception and show his commitment to transparency.

Adam Carolla is Wrong

Points And Figures • 1678 implied HN points • 11 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory Governance Elections Public Policy Political culture
  1. Better forest management could help prevent severe wildfires. It involves clearing brush and controlled burns instead of just letting nature take its course.
  2. People who lost their homes in California fires are unlikely to change their political beliefs. Their deep-rooted views will not easily shift, regardless of the changes happening around them.
  3. Democrats typically expand government to solve problems, while Republicans lean toward private sector solutions. This difference affects how cities like San Francisco and New York handle their issues.

Make America a Continent Again

Atlas of Wonders and Monsters • 729 implied HN points • 26 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary Presidential elections Governance National Identity International relations
  1. The word 'America' means different things to different people. In many Spanish-speaking countries, it refers to the whole continent, not just the United States.
  2. Donald Trump's actions and statements about territories like Greenland and the Gulf of Mexico may upset international relationships and suggest a more aggressive stance.
  3. The strong American influence on the continent comes with a responsibility to act as a stabilizing power. If Trump fails to do so, it could affect how Americans are viewed in the rest of the Americas.

The Four Phases of Institutional Collapse in the Age of AI

Kyla’s Newsletter • 286 implied HN points • 29 May 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Democracy Governance Technology impact Institutional change Public Policy
  1. Trust in institutions is fading. People are starting to feel that institutions no longer work for them, leading to a breakdown in trust.
  2. Knowledge and expertise are being dismissed. This causes a gap in education and knowledge transfer, making it harder for new generations to step into important roles.
  3. Institutional breakdown is happening. There are not enough systems in place to rebuild what's lost, leading to a situation where technology could replace human roles without any checks in place.

Finding the devil in legislative details

Disaffected Newsletter • 1518 implied HN points • 09 Aug 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Legislation Policy Advocacy Governance Civil Rights
  1. Legislative language can be complicated and confusing, making it hard for everyday people to understand what laws really mean. It's important to break down legal terms into simple language so everyone can grasp their implications.
  2. Some laws might have hidden meanings that could cause major issues, like how definitions in legislation can change the way we understand terms like 'sexual orientation.' This can lead to unintended consequences that affect society.
  3. Activists sometimes downplay the real effects of laws, which can be alarming. It's crucial to stay informed and critically assess what legislation truly entails to protect the rights and safety of all individuals.

Freighthopping

Doomberg • 7015 implied HN points • 03 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Governance Energy Policy Political trends Environmental Policy
  1. Colorado has shifted from a swing state leaning Republican to strongly Democratic in recent elections. This change reflects a broader trend of leftward political movement in the state.
  2. Governor Jared Polis is promoting renewable energy, especially wind power, which now generates a significant portion of Colorado's electricity. He seems to be inspired by policies from other progressive leaders.
  3. An interesting proposal called SunTrain aims to transport renewable energy using trains instead of traditional power lines. This could provide a new way to move excess energy while utilizing existing rail infrastructure.

The expert class is failing, and so is Biden’s presidency

Silver Bulletin • 2066 implied HN points • 02 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Governance Political parties Public Opinion Media
  1. The expert class has struggled in recent years, failing to effectively manage significant events like wars, financial crises, and the pandemic. This has led to a loss of public trust in their judgment.
  2. Biden's presidency is viewed as unsuccessful, partly due to his decisions like pardoning his son. Many see this as a sign of weakness and it could give Donald Trump more confidence to act similarly without facing backlash.
  3. There is a growing connection between education and political power, with educated voters increasingly aligning with the Democratic Party. However, this has resulted in a disconnect with average voters, leading to political losses for Democrats.

Lessons About the Civil Service and Political Appointees

Cremieux Recueil • 567 implied HN points • 18 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Civil Service Governance Party Affiliation Bureaucracy
  1. Civil servants often prioritize their own beliefs over the goals of the president, which can create problems in running the government. This misalignment can lead to delays and increased costs in government projects.
  2. Political loyalty plays a big role in how well civil servants perform their jobs. When civil servants are aligned with the president's party, they tend to work more effectively and efficiently, saving the government time and money.
  3. Changes in political leadership can affect civil servants' loyalties, but many will still lean toward their original party. This can create challenges for a new administration trying to implement its policies, especially if they face resistance from a predominantly opposing workforce.