The hottest Government Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
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Top U.S. Politics Topics

Trump abandons Zelensky, triggering proxy war meltdown

Aaron Mate • 176 implied HN points • 19 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Election Foreign Policy Government Political Commentary National Security
  1. Trump believes that Zelensky could have prevented the war in Ukraine. This suggests that there may have been choices to avoid conflict.
  2. The statement indicates a significant change in U.S. support for Ukraine, which could lead to instability in the region.
  3. This situation may affect how future relationships between the U.S. and Ukraine develop, especially in terms of military aid and diplomatic support.

113 predictions for Trump's second term

Silver Bulletin • 829 implied HN points • 26 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Policy Government Campaigns Society
  1. The predictions aim to explore various possible outcomes of Trump's second term, from political events to global issues. It's like guessing how a story might unfold, mixing serious and bizarre scenarios.
  2. The predictions are based on probabilities, meaning some events are more likely to happen than others. For example, predicting a Republican win in 2028 isn't just a simple yes or no; there's a chance it could happen.
  3. There’s an emphasis on keeping track of unusual risks and looking at the bigger picture. These predictions could shape how we think about future political events and the changing landscape in the US.

It’s Not Just Kay Granger. All of Congress Is an Old Age Home.

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 1627 implied HN points • 06 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Congress Government Elections Legislation Public Policy
  1. Kay Granger, an 81-year-old congresswoman, is living in an assisted care facility while still serving in Congress. This raises questions about the ability of elderly politicians to effectively represent their constituents.
  2. Many older members in Congress may not be fully engaged or capable of performing their duties. This situation suggests a broader issue with age and effectiveness within government.
  3. There are calls for reevaluation of compensation for lawmakers who are not actively participating in their work as public representatives. This brings up the debate about taxpayer money and how it's spent on elected officials.

Inside Biden’s Billion-Dollar Broadband Boondoggle

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 1085 implied HN points • 15 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Policy Infrastructure Government Technology
  1. The Biden administration promised to provide reliable internet access to 25 million people in rural areas. This is important because many people living in these regions struggle with slow or no internet service.
  2. The $42 billion investment meant to improve broadband services has not connected a single customer yet. This raises questions about how effective the program is and why it hasn't delivered on its promises.
  3. Many individuals, like a software engineer in Wisconsin, face challenges working from home due to poor internet connectivity. Without successful implementation of broadband programs, their work continues to suffer.

Will China Invade Taiwan? Will Trump Keep His Promises? And Is Polyamory Finally Out?

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 1850 implied HN points • 01 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Government Predictions Policy Culture
  1. Trump's administration might push for stricter immigration policies, which could lead to more families self-deporting rather than mass deportations.
  2. Expect tariffs and trade actions from Trump, but major shifts in government spending on programs like Social Security and Medicare are unlikely.
  3. Prepare for changes in language and culture, with new trends in both areas as 2025 unfolds.
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The Evolution of Marco Rubio

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 1061 implied HN points • 16 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Legislation Foreign Policy Political parties Government
  1. Marco Rubio is changing his approach to foreign policy, focusing on being pragmatic rather than hawkish. He wants to find practical solutions instead of just being aggressive.
  2. During his confirmation hearing, Rubio mentioned seeing opportunities in the Middle East that didn't exist before, especially relating to the situation with Israel and Hamas. He believes that current conflicts may create new possibilities for peace and cooperation.
  3. Rubio's comments suggest he is looking for ways to turn recent chaos in the Middle East into strategic advantages for the U.S. This shows a shift in how he perceives diplomatic chances amidst turmoil.

February 20, 2025

Letters from an American • 24 implied HN points • 21 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Elections Legislation Public Policy Health care
  1. The current stability in America has allowed extreme views to grow. Some people don't realize how bad life could be without the freedoms and health protections we have.
  2. Cuts to government jobs under the Trump administration are affecting many, including veterans. These cuts contradict the claims that the government is wasting money.
  3. Recent actions in politics show that some lawmakers are not recognizing the dangers of authoritarianism. This could lead to serious issues if people aren't aware of the past mistakes made regarding freedom and democracy.

Outlawing Price Gouging Will Only Hurt Angelenos

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 1052 implied HN points • 14 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Policy Economics Government Legislation Public Opinion
  1. Outlawing price hikes might seem fair, but it can actually hurt people more. When prices are kept too low, it can lead to shortages of essential items.
  2. Politicians often react to disasters by blaming businesses for high prices, but this can have negative consequences. Price increases can help balance supply and demand during tough times.
  3. Making price gouging illegal might sound good, but it might actually make it harder for people to find the supplies they need during emergencies.

The Curious Case of Luigi Mangione. Plus...

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 2921 implied HN points • 11 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Elections Legislation Political parties Public Health
  1. Luigi Mangione, the suspect in the murder of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson, was from a wealthy background and seemed normal to those who knew him. His social media showed no extreme political views but did include a controversial book.
  2. Mangione went through a tumultuous time after back surgery, which might have contributed to his change in behavior. His arrest and the context surrounding it have led to public speculation about his motives.
  3. Despite his serious charges, some people online celebrated Mangione, seeing him as a kind of anti-hero against the healthcare system, illustrating the complex reactions to his actions.

Row breaks out over council’s redundancy plans

NN Journal • 178 implied HN points • 17 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Policies Elections Public Services Local Governance
  1. The West Northamptonshire Council is offering voluntary redundancies to staff to cut costs as they face a budget shortfall. This could also include options for early retirement and reduced work hours.
  2. The Labour party is very unhappy with this decision, calling it a 'debacle' that risks worsening already strained public services.
  3. Current waiting times for services are long, and losing staff now might make these services even harder to access for the public.

Things are going even worse than I expected

The Future, Now and Then • 345 implied HN points • 02 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Elections Regulation Political theory Civil Rights
  1. Elon Musk has taken significant control over the U.S. government, causing concern among observers. His style of leadership resembles how he managed Twitter, which raises questions about legality and governance.
  2. The ability to rebuild and enforce government regulations takes time, and the current situation is making it harder for progressives to succeed. There’s a sense of lost potential for positive change.
  3. Many people feel a sense of mourning for the futures that now seem impossible. Plans and hopes for progress that once existed are now gone, and it leaves a feeling of disappointment.

Christmas in the Gulag. Trudeau in Trouble. How the Drone Theories Stack Up. Plus. . .

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 2346 implied HN points • 17 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Current Events Political Analysis International Affairs Government Public Policy
  1. There are many Americans wrongfully detained overseas. Some families are fighting to bring their loved ones home for the holidays.
  2. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is facing serious political trouble. His government could collapse after the resignation of his key ally.
  3. There are mysterious drone sightings in New Jersey, and no one knows for sure who's flying them. Some believe it could be foreign governments, while others think it could be our own.

Mr. President, Don’t Abandon the Rule of Law to Save TikTok

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 700 implied HN points • 20 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Law Government Civil Rights Elections Public Policy
  1. The rule of law is important in a republic and should not be ignored, even for popular apps like TikTok.
  2. As president, there is a responsibility to uphold the law rather than make exceptions for personal preferences.
  3. Supporting independent journalism is essential for shedding light on important issues and maintaining accountability.

Dingus of the week: “A big beautiful bill”

Men Yell at Me • 301 implied HN points • 23 May 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Legislation Public Policy Political Commentary
  1. Finding humor in tough situations can help us cope and maintain our sanity. Laughter can take the power out of serious issues.
  2. Sometimes, government actions seem silly or harmful, like cutting essential services to save money. It's important to recognize the real impact of these choices.
  3. Good news can still happen amidst the bad, like legal wins for marginalized groups and positive changes in work-life balance. Celebrating these wins is important.

What Trump's lawyer was really advocating

Robert Reich • 26140 implied HN points • 11 Jan 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government History Policy Democracy Leadership
  1. Trump's lawyer argued for immunity from criminal trial through impeachment, resembling the 1933 Enabling Law in Germany.
  2. American democracy is stronger than Weimar Republic's but caution is needed to protect it.
  3. Author highlights the importance of upholding democratic norms, media truth-telling, and citizen participation for safeguarding democracy.

By The Book

Points And Figures • 1012 implied HN points • 19 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Political theory Government Public Policy Political Commentary
  1. Outsiders often disrupt the status quo and create change, even if they lack traditional qualifications. People like Elon Musk and Henry Kaiser show that success can come from unconventional paths.
  2. Experience in the real world can lead to better decision-making, which is why some believe Trump has gained valuable insights since his first term. His focus on practical solutions may lead to positive outcomes.
  3. Reforming government agencies and taxes could transform how Americans interact with the government. People are looking for changes that align with their needs rather than outdated systems.

The Monarch of Mar-a-Lago

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 1112 implied HN points • 08 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Government Political parties Public Policy Political History
  1. Trump's power peaks before he takes office, showing how the moment of being sworn in changes the dynamics of his influence.
  2. The story of Rip Van Winkle highlights how dramatic changes can occur in society, even in just a couple of decades.
  3. Modern political identities can be confusing and overwhelming, as seen in Rip's struggle to understand new party affiliations.

Impeach Him

The Cosmopolitan Globalist • 142 implied HN points • 06 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Leadership Psychology Government Political Behavior National Security
  1. Donald Trump's behavior is likened to delusions seen in dementia patients, suggesting he operates in his own fantasy world. This raises serious concerns about his decisions and their impact on the country.
  2. The consequences of Trump's actions could lead to irreversible harm to the U.S. and its global standing, potentially paving the way for authoritarian regimes to rise in influence.
  3. Pathological narcissism not only affects Trump but has also created a collective delusion among many of his supporters, making them dismiss evidence and rational criticisms of his actions.

Neolib Zombies

Magic + Loss • 417 implied HN points • 03 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Policies Economy Identity Globalization Government
  1. Neoliberalism has changed how we see ourselves, turning us from citizens into consumers and investors. This shift impacts our values and priorities in society.
  2. Since Reagan's presidency, neoliberal ideas have focused more on market concerns instead of workers' rights or social programs. This change has affected how economic policies are shaped today.
  3. Even though neoliberalism seems to be struggling, it continues to influence our lives and policies significantly. Its effects are still visible in the world around us.

Judicial Notice (10.06.24): Changing Of The Guard

Original Jurisdiction • 339 implied HN points • 07 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Judiciary Legislation Government Elections Law enforcement
  1. Gurbir Grewal, the former director of the SEC's Enforcement Division, had a successful tenure, overseeing many enforcement actions that brought back billions to investors. He is now joining Milbank law firm.
  2. Dorothy Roberts from Penn Law received a MacArthur Fellowship, also known as a 'genius grant,' for her work on racial issues in social services. This grant will provide her with $800,000 over five years.
  3. Former Brooklyn DA Eugene Gold, known for prosecuting the 'Son of Sam' killer, passed away at age 100. His work in the criminal justice system left a lasting impact.

The FDR era comes to an end

The Crucial Years • 4414 implied HN points • 06 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Policy Government Leadership Social Issues
  1. The recent election represented a major shift away from the values established during the FDR era. It feels like a significant connection to that time has been broken, which raises concerns about the future.
  2. Current challenges, especially regarding climate and energy, seem daunting, but there is an opportunity to rebuild our energy system. The focus on renewable energy could help create a more equitable and sustainable world.
  3. Local leaders need to act decisively on climate change policies. There’s a need for strong initiatives to reduce pollution and invest in green projects, which are critical to making meaningful progress.

Some Thoughts On The Mystery Drones

Caitlin’s Newsletter • 2095 implied HN points • 14 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Security Surveillance Public Opinion Media
  1. There have been many sightings of large drones on the east coast of the US, but the government claims it doesn't know who owns them or where they are from.
  2. Some reported sights may just be people misidentifying regular aircraft or stars, but there are still documented cases of unusual flying objects that don't fit these explanations.
  3. The US government either doesn't know what's happening with these drones or is not being honest about it, leading to a lot of speculation and concern among the public.

Defiant Trump takes on Davos: in first major speech of term two, POTUS unveils policy priorities

The Dossier • 446 implied HN points • 23 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Policy Government Economy Foreign Relations
  1. Trump plans to strengthen the U.S. economy by promising significant tax cuts and reducing foreign tariffs. He wants businesses to produce more in America by offering low taxes.
  2. He mocked climate change policies and aims to remove regulations that he believes hinder economic growth. Trump's focus is on promoting traditional energy sources like oil and gas.
  3. Trump wants to regain control over inflation and national debt while also pushing for international talks on oil prices and security issues like nuclear arms reduction.

flood the zone

bad cattitude • 269 implied HN points • 25 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Regulations Policy Bureaucracy Elections
  1. A significant change is happening in government, aiming to reduce waste and increase efficiency. This might mean many current programs are being cut back.
  2. There's a new focus on meritocracy, meaning qualified people will be put in positions instead of relying on connections. This could improve government operations.
  3. To make these changes last, there needs to be a legal framework supporting them. Court actions could ensure that reductions in federal power remain in place for the future.

The GOP Walkout That Ended Badly

The Status Kuo • 18632 implied HN points • 02 Feb 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Legislation Political parties Elections Government State Politics
  1. Oregon GOP Senators boycotted the state senate to prevent a quorum, violating a voter-approved measure banning officials with 10 or more absences from reelection.
  2. Voters passed Measure 113 to disqualify legislators with unexcused absences, leading to a Supreme Court ruling against the GOP Senators.
  3. The GOP Senators' walkout impacted their ability to run for office again, causing disruptions in the state senate and a potential shift in power dynamics.

DOGE Is What Happens When Trust In Government Hits Zero

QTR’s Fringe Finance • 62 implied HN points • 19 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Economy Debt Taxation Public Opinion
  1. Trust in government is at a low point, leading to rising interest in unconventional solutions like DOGE. Many people feel frustrated watching how tax money is spent and wonder if their money is being used wisely.
  2. Americans are concerned about the growing national debt and fiscal mismanagement. This situation has made many people question value for money from the government.
  3. There is a feeling that after years of mishandled finances, radical changes like DOGE might be a necessary wake-up call. While its methods may be messy, it highlights the need for accountability and reform in government spending.

That Which Can Be Destroyed By The Truth, Should Be

Caitlin’s Newsletter • 1937 implied HN points • 16 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Media Journalism Secrecy Truth
  1. Truth can be really powerful, and it often challenges the lies that support unfair systems. When we know the truth, it becomes harder for those in power to take advantage of others.
  2. In a fair society, those with more power should be more transparent, while those with less power need protection from being exploited. This way, everyone can feel safe and treated fairly.
  3. Facing the truth can be scary because it may change relationships and challenge our beliefs. However, embracing truth is essential for growth and a healthier society.

Has Europe’s Islamist Threat Come to America?

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 1187 implied HN points • 02 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Terrorism Public Safety Crime Government Security
  1. There were two suspected terror attacks on New Year's Day in America, raising concerns about violence similar to what Europe has experienced.
  2. A truck driver drove into a crowd in New Orleans, resulting in at least 15 deaths and many injuries.
  3. After the truck attack, the driver shot at police before being killed, and IEDs were also found nearby, indicating a planned attack.

Jake Tapper's Unoriginal Sin

Unreported Truths • 61 implied HN points • 04 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Journalism Government Elections Public Policy Media Criticism
  1. Jake Tapper and Alex Thompson's book 'Original Sin' lacks new and important information about Joe Biden's mental decline. It mostly restates what many already knew.
  2. The media has praised the book as groundbreaking, but it does not address its own failures in covering Biden's issues during his presidency.
  3. Good journalism should question authority and seek the truth, rather than just echoing popular opinions or the status quo.

Poetic Justice for Jay Bhattacharya. Plus. . .

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 2606 implied HN points • 02 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Policy Government Foreign Relations Criminal Justice
  1. Jay Bhattacharya faced a lot of pushback for questioning COVID-19 lockdowns, but now he's nominated to lead the NIH. It feels like he's getting the recognition he deserves after being silenced.
  2. Tulsi Gabbard is facing unfair accusations of being a Russian asset due to her past views and meetings. People believe she should have a chance to explain herself in a confirmation hearing instead of being labeled.
  3. Hunter Biden received a controversial pardon from his father, Joe Biden, just before leaving office. This decision has upset many, including some Democrats, because it seems he's getting special treatment compared to others.

February 19, 2025

Letters from an American • 22 implied HN points • 20 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy Elections Government International relations Defense
  1. The U.S. is shifting its support away from Ukraine and leaning towards Russia, which is causing concerns about international alliances. This change in support reflects the interests of former President Trump rather than the American people's wishes.
  2. Negotiations between the U.S. and Russia have started, but Ukraine is being excluded from these talks. This raises questions about Ukraine's future sovereignty and whether peace can be achieved without their involvement.
  3. American military and political leaders are worried that Trump's approach is weakening NATO and could lead to further Russian aggression in Europe. There is a call for stronger unity among European nations to counter this threat.

Global Elites Ram Digital IDs To Prevent Populist Victories

Public • 404 implied HN points • 01 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Surveillance Government Populism Digital Identity Globalization
  1. Governments are considering using a single app to store all personal information, which would make it easy for citizens to access important documents. This includes everything from vaccination status to tax records.
  2. This app could also give governments the power to control people's access to public services based on their behavior online. If someone spreads misinformation or hate speech, they could lose access to certain services.
  3. Digital IDs and tracking could lead to more surveillance and privacy concerns for citizens. Many fear that this could be a way for elites to maintain control and prevent populist movements.

Washington Gets the Full Musk Treatment

Nonzero Newsletter • 474 implied HN points • 31 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Elections Policy Political parties Administration
  1. A lot of Americans think their government is run by a small group of powerful people. This idea shows concern about inequality in political power.
  2. Elon Musk's approach to leadership involves major cutbacks and challenges to existing processes. This style can lead to significant changes in organizations like the government.
  3. There are growing worries about the safety of AI as the US and China compete for technological dominance. Leaders emphasize that this race could have dangerous consequences.

Trump And Israel Can't Wait To Start Bombing Iran

Caitlin’s Newsletter • 1802 implied HN points • 17 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy Military Action Government Geopolitics Public Opinion
  1. Israel and Trump's administration seem eager to attack Iran now that Syria's air defenses are out of the way. This could lead to airstrikes aimed at stopping Iran from developing nuclear weapons, despite lack of evidence for such activities.
  2. There's a belief that many political movements can be fake and serve to maintain the current power structures instead of creating real change. This suggests that people's frustrations are often redirected back into the system rather than helping them fight against it.
  3. The extreme wealth of billionaires is often seen as irrational. Instead of acting for the common good, their wealth accumulation is driven by personal issues and inner pain, harming society in the process.

In Soviet Germany, the government protests YOU

eugyppius: a plague chronicle • 230 implied HN points • 11 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Protests Government Elections Political parties Activism
  1. Protests in Germany are increasingly targeting those labeled as 'the right,' which now includes not just far-right parties but also center-right ones. This means many voters are being seen as needing 'reeducation.'
  2. The government is allegedly using taxpayer money to finance protests against political opposition, which raises questions about fairness in democracy. Nonprofit groups linked to the state are involved in organizing these protests.
  3. There is a growing tension in German politics where opposition to the ruling parties is being met with protests and accusations of extremism, which might push voters towards more populist, right-wing parties.

Democrats Still Aren’t Listening. Texan Sheriffs vs. Mexican Cartels. Plus. . .

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 1669 implied HN points • 19 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Political Analysis Policy Issues Legislation Government
  1. Many Democrats are struggling to understand why they lost support from working-class Americans. It's important for them to reconsider their focus on cultural issues that many voters see as distractions.
  2. In Texas, local sheriffs like Roy Boyd are actively fighting against drug cartels and human smuggling. Their creative approaches, like launching specific task forces, are showing real results.
  3. President-elect Trump is suing pollsters after they predicted a different outcome in Iowa. This may be part of a larger strategy to challenge media and regulatory norms around political speech.