The hottest Governance Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
Category
Top Technology Topics
The Data Ecosystem 399 implied HN points 21 Jul 24
  1. Poor data quality is a big problem for organizations, but it's often misunderstood. It's not just about fixing bad data; you need to figure out what's causing the issues.
  2. Data quality has many aspects, like accuracy and completeness. Good data helps businesses make better decisions, while bad data can cost a lot of money.
  3. To solve data quality issues, you need a complete approach that looks at different root causes. Simply fixing one part won't fix everything, and different sources might create new problems.
Brain Pizza 1125 implied HN points 28 Jan 25
  1. Narcissism can be both good and bad for leaders. It helps them be confident and make big decisions, but it can also lead to corruption and poor ethics.
  2. Grandiose narcissism makes leaders more persuasive and able to handle crises, but it can also create instability and ethical issues in government.
  3. There's a difference between grandiose and vulnerable narcissism. Grandiose narcissists are more outgoing and confident, while vulnerable ones are more sensitive and insecure.
Common Sense with Bari Weiss 1395 implied HN points 19 Jan 25
  1. Many people are unhappy with the current system and feel that leaders do not care about them. There is a growing distrust toward institutions that were once respected.
  2. Public dissatisfaction is seen in various movements worldwide, highlighting a desire for change and a disconnect between elites and everyday citizens.
  3. The rise of digital communication has exposed the problems with traditional institutions, making it harder for them to maintain authority without accountability.
Common Sense with Bari Weiss 871 implied HN points 24 Feb 25
  1. A lot of Germans voted recently, and the focus was mainly on immigration issues. This shows how important the topic is for many people right now.
  2. The Alternative for Germany, or AfD, gained a lot of support, highlighting their strong stance on immigration. This raised concerns about how mainstream parties might respond to such a shift in voter priorities.
  3. Friedrich Merz's Christian Democrats won the election but didn't get as many votes as expected. This could mean challenges ahead for them in addressing the rising support for the AfD.
Proof 28 implied HN points 05 Jun 25
  1. There's an ongoing conflict known as the Trump-Musk Civil War, which is gaining a lot of attention.
  2. A biographer of both Donald Trump and Elon Musk is answering questions about this conflict in an Ask Me Anything (AMA) format.
  3. People interested can ask questions and get insights directly from someone who has written extensively about both figures.
Get a weekly roundup of the best Substack posts, by hacker news affinity:
eugyppius: a plague chronicle 133 implied HN points 18 Jan 25
  1. Germany's politics are stuck and slow to change. Other countries are moving forward, but Germany is lagging behind in responding to new challenges.
  2. The current political system in Germany seems to prioritize maintaining the status quo over adapting to citizens' needs. This could lead to poor governance in the future.
  3. There is a sense that Germany wants to set a good example for the world, but this approach may not solve its domestic issues or reflect the changing global landscape.
Slow Boring 3164 implied HN points 12 Jan 24
  1. Movies rely on a variety of roles, including writers, for their success.
  2. Positive trends in the labor market include record enrollment in ACA exchanges, booming construction jobs, and falling greenhouse gas emissions.
  3. The outcome of historical events, like the American Revolution, can have a significant impact on future developments and trajectories.
Thinking about... 731 implied HN points 13 Feb 25
  1. Trump's style of leadership can seem strong, but it's actually making America weaker on the world stage. His actions are damaging key government institutions and alliances.
  2. While many Americans fear Trump's behavior, he doesn’t inspire the same fear abroad. Instead, other countries see his actions as a chance to gain more power without concern for his threats.
  3. Trump's government strategy relies on chaos and destruction rather than solid policies. This creates a situation where adversaries like Russia and China can take advantage of America's declining strength.
TRANSFORM with Marianne Williamson 2044 implied HN points 02 Feb 24
  1. Governor Greg Abbott of Texas is asserting his right to block border patrol agents from saving drowning migrants, which is supported by other Republican figures.
  2. Addressing the root causes of the border crisis is essential, including stabilizing Latin American economies and decriminalizing drugs.
  3. It is important to prioritize humanitarian values as a nation and not let innocent people die at the border.
Richard Hanania's Newsletter 487 implied HN points 16 Feb 25
  1. Corruption can sometimes lead to positive outcomes, like faster project approvals. In some cases, letting officials profit from development could actually help communities grow and thrive.
  2. Many politicians aren't as wealthy as people think, and there's little evidence of widespread corruption in government. The average net worth of Congress members isn't that much higher than that of other Americans their age.
  3. Regulations and red tape can hinder progress and development. Sometimes, relaxing those restrictions can lead to better results for society, even if it means embracing a bit of 'good' corruption.
Letters from an American 26 implied HN points 02 Feb 25
  1. Donald Trump's supporters are trying to dismantle the federal government. They want revenge on anyone who held him accountable, making it hard for him and his allies to face the law.
  2. There's a group that wants to change how the U.S. government treats its citizens, favoring certain groups while discriminating against others. This includes targeting transgender individuals and limiting rights based on race and gender.
  3. Elon Musk and other wealthy backers aim to control government resources for their own needs. They're pushing for big cuts to federal aid and trying to access sensitive government systems, which raises concerns about security and legality.
The Lunacian 690 implied HN points 09 Oct 24
  1. Cyborg Lemur, Daniboo, and Howler won the AxieGov Hackathon. They created great projects that will help the community understand the Axie Infinity Treasury better.
  2. Many contributors helped organize the hackathon, showing strong teamwork within the Axie community. This effort helped bring out individual talent to build useful tools.
  3. There will be more events like this in the future. The team plans to continue improving the projects and getting feedback from the community.
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.
Comment is Freed 69 implied HN points 19 Jan 25
  1. Trump often says things that confuse people, making it hard to know what he really means. This can cause chaos in politics and business.
  2. His team is often divided, with people competing for Trump's attention rather than working together. This creates a lot of turnover and instability.
  3. The people around Trump can greatly influence his decisions and policies, so it's important to watch those relationships to understand future conflicts.
In My Tribe 1184 implied HN points 23 Nov 24
  1. There's a concern that Trump’s style is more about radical changes than traditional conservatism. This could lead to extreme actions rather than stable governance.
  2. People in leadership roles, like running the Defense Department, need to have experience managing other managers. Without this experience, they might struggle to lead effectively.
  3. The new appointments might focus on what they want to change, but managing large organizations is hard, and mistakes could happen if they move too quickly.
Comment is Freed 77 implied HN points 14 Jan 25
  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.
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.
Comment is Freed 81 implied HN points 12 Jan 25
  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.
Odds and Ends of History 1206 implied HN points 07 Nov 24
  1. America's political situation is very unstable, and this could lead to problems for the rest of the world. If the U.S. struggles to maintain its role as a superpower, it could change global security and trade.
  2. Without strong American support, countries like Russia and China may act more aggressively. This could result in more conflict, especially in places like Taiwan and the South China Sea.
  3. Countries that share democratic values, like those in Europe, should work together more closely. For Britain, reconnecting with Europe may be necessary to ensure security and stability in an uncertain global environment.
Phillips’s Newsletter 95 implied HN points 11 Jan 25
  1. Great powers, especially nuclear ones, act to protect their interests. This means they are sensitive to threats near their borders.
  2. The idea of security and power is important in international relations, with all states seeking to ensure their safety, no matter their government type.
  3. Donald Trump is using language that aligns with realist views in foreign policy, particularly in how he frames issues related to Russia.
C.O.P. Central Organizing Principle. 12 implied HN points 05 Jun 25
  1. Kabuki Theatre is a term used to describe a form of performance that can be symbolic or representational. It emphasizes drama and storytelling, often with exaggerated elements.
  2. The idea of a 'CEO bromance' suggests a close relationship between leaders that can influence their decisions and behaviors. This can lead to significant dynamics in business or politics.
  3. The phrase 'no soap in the Presidential shower' implies a lack of transparency or authenticity in leadership. This can create mistrust among the public.
Alexander News Network -Dr. Paul Elias Alexander's substack 1474 implied HN points 27 Jan 24
  1. Greg Abbott is criticized for his actions and decisions.
  2. There are concerns about Abbott's approach to immigration.
  3. Dr. Paul Alexander's perspective suggests dissatisfaction with Abbott's leadership.
The J. Burden Show 1557 implied HN points 11 Jan 24
  1. Patronage in politics involves an exchange of power and support, seen throughout history with politicians granting gifts for votes.
  2. Social and Emotional Patronage explains why individuals support a regime for emotional and social status rewards, even if they don't see direct material benefits.
  3. The loyalty to a regime can be maintained through social and emotional rewards, rather than purely monetary gains, showcasing the power of status and belonging.
In My Tribe 486 implied HN points 24 Jan 25
  1. Democracy allows for change in leadership, which can prevent bad leaders from staying in power. It's important that citizens can vote out leaders who aren't doing a good job.
  2. Absolute monarchies might seem appealing as they could mean strong leadership, but they come with risks like power struggles and potential tyranny. History shows that not all leaders are good.
  3. Choosing leaders based on competence is essential. In democracy, we try to pick capable people, while in monarchies, we might end up with unstable or dangerous leaders.
Political Currents by Ross Barkan 17 implied HN points 11 Feb 25
  1. Eric Adams avoided corruption charges after the Trump administration dropped them, but this does not improve his popularity. Many people in New York still do not like him.
  2. Adams' political future is uncertain, with slim chances of winning the next Democratic primary. He has to think about other options if he wants to stay in politics.
  3. Despite this drop in charges, Adams may still struggle since his reputation is damaged and he's unlikely to get support from major parties or donors.
Striking 13 2455 implied HN points 13 Oct 23
  1. The government is shifting towards being run by civil servants under Keir Starmer's leadership.
  2. Organizational competence is a critical factor for governmental success and the current UK government has been lacking in this aspect.
  3. The success of a civil-service-led government is crucial in restoring public trust in politics and combating conservative populism.
In My Tribe 683 implied HN points 19 Dec 24
  1. The political scene is shifting from traditional left-right divides to a new battle between those wanting to reform current institutions and those pushing for radical changes.
  2. There are two types of people in both political camps: institutionalists who want to improve systems like government and media, and brokenists who think those systems need to be completely replaced.
  3. Silicon Valley influences and views on politics are changing, with some tech leaders now aligned with radical right ideas, moving away from their previous more progressive views.
Odds and Ends of History 469 implied HN points 20 Jan 25
  1. Transport for London is planning to use AI cameras to make transportation safer. This technology aims to enhance safety measures in public transport.
  2. A discussion is taking place about how AI could help improve government services. Experts want to focus on real solutions rather than just hype or negativity.
  3. There are concerns about why governments might be hesitant to take action. Some believe that fear of power is stopping them from making necessary changes.
The Upheaval 1065 implied HN points 16 Oct 24
  1. Public-private partnerships can help achieve goals, especially in global competition, but they also have risks. It's important to weigh these risks, as they can lead to significant problems in governance and society.
  2. A major concern with public-private partnerships is that they often leave out the public's voice. Decisions may be made without consulting the people affected, which can lead to widespread dissatisfaction and lack of trust in the government.
  3. While some level of cooperation between the government and corporations can be necessary, it's crucial to prioritize the nation's interests and ensure transparency. Keeping the public informed can help prevent misuses of power and maintain democratic accountability.
bad cattitude 344 implied HN points 11 Feb 25
  1. People have started to feel more hopeful and positive lately, even if the problems haven't fully disappeared. There's a sense that things might be getting better.
  2. Humiliation and constant control can really wear people down and make them feel helpless. When daily annoyances pile up, it can crush a person's spirit.
  3. Believing that tomorrow will be better can create a positive cycle. Hope can return when people feel like there's a chance for improvement in the future.
Thinking about... 552 implied HN points 20 Dec 24
  1. The government may be shifting from traditional administration to a new kind of regime led by influential figures like Musk and Trump. This change means that financial power could have more influence than elected positions.
  2. Public health is a significant issue in the U.S., and a lack of a national health system leads to greater health problems among citizens. This situation can result in more anxiety and shorter lives for many people.
  3. With debates over vaccination and health policies, there is a real concern that society could face outbreaks of preventable diseases like mumps and measles due to weakened health protections.
Common Sense with Bari Weiss 445 implied HN points 26 Jan 25
  1. Mount McKinley is a significant landmark in Alaska and is part of the state's identity. Many locals see it as a stunning part of their outdoor lifestyle.
  2. Sarah Palin, a well-known Alaskan figure, expresses her admiration for the mountain, saying that it's awe-inspiring when viewed on clear days.
  3. The discussion around renaming Mount McKinley suggests a deeper conversation about local identity and the importance of recognizing indigenous names.
Thinking about... 603 implied HN points 09 Dec 24
  1. America is becoming like a new regime called 'Trumpomuskovia,' which highlights how the country's leadership is increasingly unstable and personal, mainly focusing on figures like Trump and Musk.
  2. The term connects to Russia and suggests that the U.S. is influenced by oligarchs, reflecting a shift where money and personal power outweigh democratic processes.
  3. This new system is unstable, meaning it could collapse easily. The relationships between powerful figures like Trump and Musk could change quickly, leading to unpredictable outcomes.
Diane Francis 839 implied HN points 22 Feb 24
  1. Donald Trump was ordered to pay $355 million for lying to financial institutions, highlighting that even powerful people can face consequences for their actions.
  2. New York's strict financial laws help maintain its reputation as a leading financial center, protecting investors from fraud.
  3. Trump compared his legal troubles to the struggles faced by political prisoners, while there are concerns he may be under foreign influence regarding his debts.
Can We Still Govern? 342 implied HN points 10 Feb 25
  1. Cuts to university health research funding can severely harm medical care and research. This might create gaps in funding that affect the quality of healthcare in the U.S.
  2. There's a worrying trend where laws are being ignored or bypassed by the government. This makes it feel like the rule of law doesn't matter anymore, leading to uncertainty and distrust.
  3. The debate over these legal issues often gets framed as a simple disagreement. However, many experts believe that clear violations of the law are happening, which should not be overlooked.
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.
Thinking about... 608 implied HN points 30 Nov 24
  1. History can show us patterns that help us understand our current problems. It's not about predicting the future, but recognizing familiar issues we can learn from.
  2. Four possible scenarios for America's future highlight risks like secession, increasing authoritarianism, and the influence of oligarchs. Each scenario shows how history might repeat itself in troubling ways.
  3. Inequality is a key theme in these scenarios. Any hope for improving America's situation will have to tackle issues of wealth and power differences in society.