The hottest Governance Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
Category
Top Technology Topics
Big Technology 3502 implied HN points 08 Nov 24
  1. AI technology is becoming increasingly important and cannot be overlooked, especially with key figures in tech having connections to the political landscape. This means the AI story will remain a big topic as politics unfold.
  2. Trump's new presidency will likely influence AI regulations and policies, particularly around open-source AI and tariffs. This could impact major tech companies and their strategies moving forward.
  3. The evolution of generative AI has just begun, and it's becoming crucial for businesses. However, many AI startups are still struggling financially, which could shape the future of the industry.
Doomberg 7015 implied HN points 03 Jan 25
  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.
Can We Still Govern? 433 implied HN points 20 Jan 25
  1. There is growing concern that wealthy individuals are gaining too much power, which threatens democracy and fairness in society. People are worried about how this could affect basic rights and opportunities for everyone.
  2. A group known as DOGE is seen as being run by billionaires who oppose government regulations while benefiting from government contracts. This raises questions about their accountability and the real intentions behind their actions.
  3. DOGE aims to use social media to sway public opinion and cut government programs, relying on a powerful media presence. Many believe this could lead to unpopular decisions that are masked as necessary reforms, potentially undermining important social services.
Silver Bulletin 2066 implied HN points 02 Dec 24
  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.
Can We Still Govern? 375 implied HN points 21 Jan 25
  1. There's a new hiring freeze for federal workers, except for some critical positions. This might lead to fewer employees in public service and could impact areas like the IRS.
  2. Trump's orders are bringing back a system that allows him to fire career employees and replace them with political appointees. This could change how government jobs are managed and create a more partisan public service.
  3. Many staff will have to return to in-person work, which could make it harder for the government to attract and keep talented employees. Remote work has been shown to be productive, but there's a push to end those arrangements.
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Cremieux Recueil 567 implied HN points 18 Jan 25
  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.
eugyppius: a plague chronicle 267 implied HN points 04 Feb 25
  1. Germany's political scene is in chaos. Major parties are refusing to form coalitions or work together after new migrations plans were introduced.
  2. The CDU party is facing backlash for its sudden hardline stance on migration, making it hard to find potential partners for a government.
  3. There are fears that the political deadlock could lead to a more extreme right-wing approach, as no clear path to a stable government has emerged.
Of Boys and Men 250 implied HN points 06 Feb 25
  1. Gov. Wes Moore of Maryland is focusing on supporting boys and men, highlighting their challenges like low job participation and rising suicide rates. It's important to uplift all genders, and he believes addressing men's issues can benefit everyone.
  2. Moore’s approach is not just to help one gender but to ensure opportunities for both boys and girls. He aims to create solutions that support the growth of young boys while also caring for young girls.
  3. Other governors have shown interest in similar initiatives, but Moore's commitment is seen as the most serious so far. His leadership may encourage more political action on these important issues.
Caitlin’s Newsletter 2426 implied HN points 14 Nov 24
  1. The political drama we see is often fake; politicians shake hands and share smiles after the show ends. It’s like a performance to keep people distracted from the real issues.
  2. Both major parties are fighting for the interests of the powerful, not for regular citizens. They may act like enemies in public, but they actually share the same goals behind the scenes.
  3. Instead of getting caught up in elections, focus on the bigger problems like war and inequality. Real change comes from looking beyond politics and understanding the true sources of power.
The Upheaval 3204 implied HN points 13 Feb 25
  1. Donald Trump represents a major shift away from the values of the Long Twentieth Century, promoting action and change instead of the procedural politics that dominated. He embodies a new spirit that prioritizes national interests and direct action.
  2. The idea of an 'open society' has led to a weakening of national identities and strong moral bonds, which many see as harmful. There's a growing desire to restore strong communal values and cohesive identities to counter this trend.
  3. Recent political movements are pushing back against the old liberal consensus, favoring a return to strong beliefs and identities. This reflects a broader dissatisfaction with the previous order and a quest for a more united and purposeful society.
Critical Mass 24 implied HN points 18 Feb 25
  1. The Free Speech Union of Canada has launched to protect and promote free speech rights in Canada. It aims to help people understand their rights and offer support for anyone facing issues.
  2. There is concern about proposed laws, like the Online Harms Act, that could limit free speech by allowing the government to shut down social media access based on accusations of hate speech. This could unfairly silence people.
  3. The union will lobby against anti-free speech legislation and provide resources for members, including legal representation if needed. The ultimate goal is to make the organization unnecessary by restoring and maintaining free speech rights.
Caitlin’s Newsletter 2551 implied HN points 06 Nov 24
  1. The Democratic Party has lost control after the elections, especially in key areas like Michigan, showing that support for war policies isn't popular. Many people are unhappy with how the party handled issues related to genocide and lack of progressive values.
  2. The election results suggest that both major candidates might continue harmful foreign policies. With Trump winning, expectations for positive change are low since he has a history of siding with powerful interests that support controversial actions.
  3. The overall message is that people shouldn't expect much good to come from U.S. elections. Instead, those wanting change should keep fighting against the ongoing abuses of power, as the struggle remains the same regardless of who is in office.
Common Sense with Bari Weiss 1247 implied HN points 09 Dec 24
  1. The Assad dynasty ruled Syria for 53 years with extreme violence and family power struggles, resembling a mix of Mafia operations and royal court intrigue. This brutal regime led to significant suffering and loss of life in the country.
  2. Bashar al-Assad's regime faced major uprisings during the Arab Spring, resulting in a horrific and bloody response that left around 600,000 Syrians dead. The backing of allies like Iran and Russia helped him maintain power amidst chaos.
  3. Recent events show a dramatic change as statues of Assad are toppled, prisons are opened, and many oppressors are fleeing. However, while this moment brings hope, the uncertainty of the future still looms large in the Middle East.
Doomberg 6392 implied HN points 26 Nov 24
  1. Gavin Newsom, the governor of California, is a strong political figure and is positioning himself for future opportunities as he cannot serve another term as governor. He has a powerful background and significant financial support.
  2. California has special rules that allow it to set stricter vehicle emissions standards than the rest of the U.S., which has major impacts on the auto industry across the country.
  3. The Biden administration has been slow to approve California's recent emissions waiver applications, and this could give California a lot more power in setting its own environmental rules, especially after Trump's election.
Common Sense with Bari Weiss 1085 implied HN points 12 Dec 24
  1. Liberalism is in danger due to the rise of authoritarian ideologies. It's important to protect classic liberal values like free speech and free markets.
  2. Personal experiences with poverty can highlight the importance of freedom and choice in society. Witnessing life under oppressive government helps people appreciate these values.
  3. Classic liberal principles such as equality under the law and the presumption of innocence are essential for a healthy society. These principles are currently being threatened.
American Dreaming 169 implied HN points 27 Jan 25
  1. Populism has been a recurring theme in American politics, often rising during times of crisis. The electorate seems to keep returning to populism, showing a strong desire for change.
  2. Instead of fighting against populism, letting it play out might allow people to see its true effects and failures. This could help break the ongoing cycle of discontent and disillusionment with politics.
  3. If traditional institutions keep obstructing populism, it may lead to stronger support for these movements in the future. People need to see whether populism truly works or not, rather than having it stifled before it can fully unfold.
Obsidian Iceberg 119 implied HN points 10 Oct 24
  1. Age-sets are groups formed based on age, which help organize communities in East Africa. This system allows people to learn and gain experiences together as they transition through different life stages.
  2. Age-sets contribute to peace by preventing violent power shifts and promoting cooperation within communities. When people share experiences, they bond, which can help reduce conflict.
  3. In modern times, age-sets still influence leadership and governance in some regions. Leaders are chosen based on wisdom and experience rather than wealth, showing a different approach to community leadership.
eugyppius: a plague chronicle 205 implied HN points 31 Jan 25
  1. An anti-migration bill in Germany failed to pass, highlighting deep divisions between political parties. Many protests erupted against the CDU after Angela Merkel criticized their cooperation with the AfD.
  2. The failed bill has hurt CDU leadership, particularly Friedrich Merz, who faces backlash from both leftist groups and critics within his own party. His inability to deliver on migration policy raises questions about his future.
  3. The political climate is tense, with leftist parties seeing an opportunity to rally against the CDU. The situation suggests growing support for the AfD as more voters may lean towards right-wing parties due to migration issues.
Chartbook 386 implied HN points 02 Jan 25
  1. Trump is expressing a desire to regain control of the Panama Canal. This idea could stir up discussions about historical land control in the Americas.
  2. Crime costs in Latin America are significant and have a big impact on society and the economy. Understanding these costs is crucial for finding ways to improve safety and living conditions.
  3. There seems to be ongoing debates among economists about certain financial issues. These discussions can help us see different perspectives on economic policies and their effects.
Econ Populi 19 implied HN points 24 Oct 24
  1. Bad economies can help populist candidates win elections. When people's lives are hard, they may choose someone who promises big changes, even if that candidate has been less successful.
  2. Populists like Donald Trump can be popular even when the economy is doing fine. Many voters don't rely on economic indicators and instead follow narratives that make them feel understood.
  3. Good economic governance might not be enough for traditional parties to win against populists. They need to connect with voters on a personal level and address their feelings about the elites and the current system.
Proof 108 implied HN points 28 Jan 25
  1. Some wealthy people are believed to have a lot of power in the government now, and their ideas can be harmful.
  2. MAGA voters are facing serious financial difficulties due to cuts in aid that they really need.
  3. The changes in support and government help may cause fear and uncertainty among supporters of the MAGA agenda.
Letters from an American 25 implied HN points 15 Feb 25
  1. There are serious issues in the Department of Justice about whether to follow the law or support Trump. Many lawyers have resigned due to pressure to drop federal charges against New York City Mayor Eric Adams.
  2. The chaos in the DOJ is similar to a past event where officials resisted orders from the president to protect the law. It shows the tension between doing what is right and protecting political interests.
  3. Protests are happening because the Trump administration removed certain references to LGBTQ+ rights from a historic monument's website. Activists are standing up to keep the history and contributions of LGBTQ+ persons recognized.
God's Spies by Thomas Neuburger 110 implied HN points 20 May 25
  1. The U.S. Constitution has flaws that let a small number of people hold a lot of power. This can affect how fair and representative the government is for everyone.
  2. Various groups have changed the Constitution over the years, impacting democracy and people's rights. This includes influences from security measures, economic policies, and executive powers.
  3. There’s a push to make the unofficial changes to the Constitution official. This could lead to big shifts in how laws are applied or understood in the country.
From the New World 75 implied HN points 04 Feb 25
  1. The UK government’s quick adaptations in tech and services during crises show a more centralized political system. This makes it easier to change things than in the US.
  2. Bureaucratic hiring processes in America often lead to unqualified candidates, which slows down progress. A more efficient system is needed for better talent acquisition.
  3. Fundamental reforms in government agencies are essential for improving efficiency and competence in services. It's not just about ideology; it's about making systems work better.
Richard Hanania's Newsletter 4779 implied HN points 11 Nov 24
  1. Sometimes, people who support bad ideas can still create good outcomes. It's important to recognize that even if someone has questionable morals, their actions can still benefit society.
  2. In politics, it can be necessary to form alliances with those we don't agree with. Supporting a cause we believe in might require working with people whose values we find unappealing.
  3. Political strategies often need to adapt to reality. It's crucial to prioritize practical wins for individual freedoms, even if it means partnering with groups that don't fully align with our principles.
Political Currents by Ross Barkan 11 implied HN points 26 Feb 25
  1. Mayor Eric Adams is likely to lose the re-election in 2026 due to low approval ratings and issues of corruption in his administration.
  2. There are currently five main Democratic candidates who might run to replace him, with some emerging women candidates as potential long-shots.
  3. Former Governor Andrew Cuomo is showing interest in running again and seems to be leading in the polls, making the race more competitive.
Brad DeLong's Grasping Reality 192 implied HN points 17 Jan 25
  1. Hamilton's big speech at the Constitutional Convention is important because it shows his true thoughts on government and leadership. He believed in strong national leadership, even suggesting that Washington should be a monarch.
  2. Current political systems from the 1960s and even the founding era have not worked well, leading to frustration with both leftist and centrist politicians. There's a need for a better approach to ensure government truly reflects the people's needs.
  3. The discussion about democracy today often misses the point. It's not just about people expressing their views, but also about having representatives who really listen and act on those values.
Papyrus Rampant 119 implied HN points 05 Oct 24
  1. In 1774, Massachusetts set up its own government, independent from British rule, even before the American Revolution officially started. They did this peacefully and with strong community involvement.
  2. General Gage, the British governor, faced growing resistance from the people of Massachusetts. They were organizing and defying his orders, making it clear they opposed British authority.
  3. The Massachusetts Provincial Congress acted like a government by making decisions, collecting taxes, and preparing for war. Their actions laid the groundwork for the future American government and the fight for independence.
Silver Bulletin 642 implied HN points 17 Dec 24
  1. Eliminating Daylight Savings Time would mean losing a lot of daylight in the summer for most Americans. People enjoy having more evening light, especially for outdoor activities.
  2. Year-round standard time might make mornings darker, which can negatively affect people's routines and mood. This could make things tougher for kids going to school early.
  3. While the idea of eliminating Daylight Savings Time seems to aim for efficiency, it could end up being very unpopular as it takes away something beneficial without offering enough advantages in return.
Comment is Freed 80 implied HN points 05 Feb 25
  1. The Democratic Republic of Congo is rich in natural resources, but its wealth is not benefiting its people. Instead, many live in poverty while corrupt leaders and foreign powers exploit the country.
  2. The idea of the 'resource curse' explains how having lots of valuable resources can lead to more conflict and bad governance. In places like Congo, greed often outweighs the needs of the people.
  3. Rwanda's role in the conflict in Congo is complicated, as it backs rebel groups for its own interests. This has created a cycle of violence and instability that continues to affect the region today.
The Weekly Dish 140 implied HN points 17 Jan 25
  1. The possibility of a regime change can lead to uncertainty about the future. Many people worry that changes in leadership might not really result in improvement.
  2. Past experiences suggest that political changes can sometimes lead to chaos rather than stability. It's important to be cautious about expecting positive outcomes.
  3. Looking ahead, it's reasonable to expect that challenges will continue, regardless of who is in charge. People may feel anxious about what could happen next.
Gideon's Substack 124 implied HN points 28 Jan 25
  1. When political parties distance themselves from extreme groups, they might inadvertently empower those very groups. This creates a cycle where the extremes gain more influence in politics.
  2. Political coalitions often need to include groups they disagree with to gain power. This can lead to instability because the goals and values of these groups may not align.
  3. Ignoring the need for compromise can lead to fragmentation of political parties, making it harder to achieve any unity. Realizing this is crucial for facing the current challenges in politics.
bad cattitude 336 implied HN points 19 Dec 24
  1. Social media changed how people discuss and analyze big bills. Instead of waiting for Congress to pass a bill without scrutiny, people can now quickly share and dissect it online.
  2. More eyes on a problem means faster and better solutions. With many people looking at a bill, issues can be spotted and addressed almost instantly, making it harder for Congress to sneak in unwanted parts.
  3. The rise of social media has empowered everyday people to hold Congress accountable. Now, representatives who engage with social media can access real-time feedback from their constituents, leading to stronger governance.
Demodexio 264 implied HN points 10 Jan 25
  1. We need new words to describe democracy better, especially as society becomes more complex. Current terms like 'capitalism' and 'socialism' don’t really help much anymore.
  2. Demodexio is a proposed system that combines the needs of the people with the expertise of skilled individuals. This approach aims to create a more effective democracy suited for our specialized world.
  3. It's important to standardize terms when discussing threats to democracy, like misinformation. This clarity can help us address issues more effectively.
Letters from an American 18 implied HN points 14 Feb 25
  1. Senate Republicans acquitted Trump during his second impeachment trial even though many, including some Republicans, thought he was guilty. The decision required a two-thirds majority to convict, which they did not reach.
  2. Trump's administration is facing significant pushback, with several prosecutors resigning in protest over orders to drop corruption charges against New York City's mayor. It raises concerns about political influence affecting legal decisions.
  3. Governors are taking action against the Trump administration, like Pennsylvania's governor suing to release blocked federal funds that are meant for important state programs. Courts have ruled against the administration's hold on these funds.
The Generalist 500 implied HN points 19 Dec 24
  1. We need to improve government hiring processes to attract good talent. Many talented people are turned off by low pay and slow bureaucratic procedures.
  2. Public investment in scientific research can lead to breakthroughs that the private market often ignores. Funding areas like disease research or innovative technologies can yield unexpected benefits for society.
  3. Understanding and improving how government works is essential. There are many effective ways to enhance efficiency that are often overlooked but can significantly help society.
Maximum Effort, Minimum Reward 383 implied HN points 19 Dec 24
  1. Political systems can change between different types, like moving from democracy to tyranny. This pattern has been studied using historical data from ancient Greek city-states.
  2. The concept of 'anacyclosis' describes how governments can cycle through forms of rule, leading to predictable changes over time. It suggests that democracies can end up in tyrannical rule.
  3. Having a mix of government types can create stability. The Roman Republic is seen as an example of this mixed constitution, combining elements of democracy, aristocracy, and monarchy.
Comment is Freed 106 implied HN points 26 Jan 25
  1. Democracy in America is at risk if Trump makes permanent changes to its structure. His actions might affect how future elections and governance work.
  2. There’s a real fear of a shift toward a system similar to Hungary, where leaders gain power using media control and different election rules.
  3. Some wealthy Americans and media outlets are supporting Trump, which could make it harder for normal government functions to operate and discourage open debate.
Richard Hanania's Newsletter 1779 implied HN points 23 Dec 24
  1. Elite Human Capital institutions emerge when smart and idealistic people come together, seeking truth and shared values over just making money. These communities form naturally as individuals find others like themselves.
  2. Wealth-maximizers and meaning-maximizers represent two paths that people can take in these communities. While some focus on financial success, others prioritize making meaningful contributions to society.
  3. Authoritarian regimes often suppress elite human capital because educated people pose a threat to their power. When these institutions are stifled, it can hinder a country's overall progress and development.
Demodexio 264 implied HN points 02 Jan 25
  1. Smaller committees are usually more efficient than larger ones. A tiny group can make decisions faster than a big group full of different opinions.
  2. Fiscal policy can be more effective than monetary policy, especially during tough economic times. Governments can take action on economic issues more quickly when they have a smaller legislative body.
  3. To manage complex government tasks better, we might need more specialized committees. A focus on smaller, efficient groups could help create better laws and address the needs of a diverse society.