The hottest Legislation Substack posts right now

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Top U.S. Politics Topics

Should a Government Help People Die?

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 1609 implied HN points • 27 Nov 24
🏥 Health Politics Healthcare system Disability Rights Legislation Public Policy
  1. Jamie Hale needs constant care due to his serious health issues and feels grateful for the National Health Service's support. Without it, he worries he might not be alive today.
  2. Hale is aware that his medical care costs a lot and feels like a financial burden on the system. This awareness makes him think deeply about his value and how society sees it.
  3. He strongly opposes the assisted suicide bill in the UK, worried it might pressure vulnerable people like himself to end their lives. He fears this could gradually lead to more extreme measures against disabled and disadvantaged individuals.

Biden’s Legacy Is a New Cold War

Nonzero Newsletter • 214 implied HN points • 03 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy Bipartisanship Legislation International relations China relations
  1. Bipartisan support in Congress is now framing China as the main enemy of the U.S. This shift has led to new laws that limit American cooperation with Chinese entities.
  2. Biden has taken a strong stance against China, continuing and intensifying policies started by Trump. This has solidified a consensus that sees China as a major threat.
  3. The growing tension between the U.S. and China is often overlooked, especially compared to conflicts in Europe. However, Biden's actions are key to understanding this new cold war dynamic.

Links For November 2024

Astral Codex Ten • 12664 implied HN points • 01 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Legislation Political parties Public Opinion Campaigns
  1. Ancient Chinese customs included burying people with passports for the afterlife. This practice was believed to help them gain entry into the underworld.
  2. A new drug for schizophrenia is approved, showing promise for fewer side effects and better treatment for negative symptoms, but it has a high starting price.
  3. Recent studies show that teaching experience may not be as important as previously thought, as using less experienced teachers can lead to worse student performance.

The Failure to Secure Elections

Erick Erickson's Confessions of a Political Junkie • 1378 implied HN points • 31 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Voting Media Conspiracy Legislation
  1. There have been issues with voting technology, like a glitch in Michigan that affected some voters. This has led to accusations from both sides about election integrity.
  2. Some media outlets focus on conspiracy theories without addressing real problems in the election systems, like unauthorized votes and security lapses.
  3. The debate about election security is divided, with one side feeling ignored and the other side accused of spreading falsehoods. This causes distrust in the electoral process.

Repeal the Jones Act of 1920

Don't Worry About the Vase • 3225 implied HN points • 27 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Legislation Trade policy Regulatory issues National Security Economic Impact
  1. The Jones Act, enacted in 1920, restricts shipping between U.S. ports to American-built and operated ships, but it has led to a decline in U.S. shipbuilding and maritime trade. After a century, the country ships very little between its own ports, resulting in higher prices for consumers.
  2. Repealing the Jones Act could significantly reduce shipping costs, increase trade, and boost the economy. It would create more jobs and provide essential supplies more efficiently during emergencies, which often cannot be met due to current shipping constraints.
  3. Opponents of the Jones Act argue that it protects a limited number of jobs at the expense of overall economic growth. They believe that allowing competition from foreign ships would enhance the maritime industry and lead to better outcomes for consumers and the economy as a whole.
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THE SHOW NOTES: Biden's October Surprise

Erick Erickson's Confessions of a Political Junkie • 1199 implied HN points • 30 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Government Public Opinion Political Analysis Legislation
  1. Biden made controversial comments calling Trump supporters 'garbage' just before the election, which drew backlash from various political figures.
  2. The White House quickly tried to clarify Biden's remarks, but many were unconvinced and criticized him for the language used.
  3. Kamala Harris also faced scrutiny for her performance in a TV interview, highlighting challenges within the Democratic campaign leading up to the election.

Fake Jobs and Fake Facts

Can We Still Govern? • 302 implied HN points • 25 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Legislation Political strategy Elections Public Policy
  1. Musk's claim that some government jobs are 'fake' highlights a misunderstanding of how important certain roles are in addressing public issues, like climate change. Real government work often goes unnoticed and underappreciated.
  2. The idea of restructuring government with big influence from private sector billionaires raises concerns about accountability and transparency. People worry that this could lead to a lack of proper checks and balances in government operations.
  3. Musk's plans to reduce federal regulations and budgets might sound appealing, but the legal and practical realities show it would be much harder to achieve than claimed. Many regulations require processes that can't just be ignored or wiped away.

November 28, 2024

Letters from an American • 4 implied HN points • 29 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Legislation Governance Political parties Public Policy
  1. Thanksgiving is a time for sharing warmth and gratitude. It's a chance to connect with loved ones and reflect on what we're thankful for.
  2. Communication plays a key role in our relationships. Keeping in touch, especially during special occasions, helps strengthen our bonds.
  3. Looking forward to the future is important. It's good to have something to anticipate and be excited about after a holiday.

Biden Pardon Open Thread

eugyppius: a plague chronicle • 202 implied HN points • 02 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Legislation Political parties Public Policy Government
  1. President Biden pardoned his son Hunter, ending his legal troubles related to tax evasion and gun possession. Biden believes these charges were politically motivated.
  2. Biden had previously denied he would pardon Hunter, but he's now acting to support him after facing pressure from political opponents. This situation highlights a discrepancy between what was said publicly and what was considered privately.
  3. The pardon could have broader implications, possibly giving other politicians like Donald Trump a moral reason to pardon their supporters in similar situations.

Why on Earth does Trump want to cancel the CHIPS Act??

Noahpinion • 23823 implied HN points • 04 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Legislation Foreign Policy Manufacturing Bipartisanship
  1. The CHIPS Act is important because it helps the U.S. regain its manufacturing capacity in the semiconductor industry, crucial for technology and defense.
  2. If Trump cancels the CHIPS Act, it could weaken America's ability to compete with China, especially as China grows its manufacturing and military power.
  3. Many people are worried that this move would create greater risks for the U.S. in a time when it needs strong alliances and manufacturing capabilities to face external threats.

Why Australia is Setting a Minimum Age of 16 for Creating a Social Media Account

After Babel • 1118 implied HN points • 26 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Legislation Internet Safety Mental health Social media
  1. Australia plans to set a minimum age of 16 for social media accounts. This is to help protect young people from online harm and encourage them to enjoy real-life activities instead of getting lost in social media.
  2. Research shows a big increase in mental health issues among young Australians, which coincides with the rise of smartphones and social media. The government believes that limiting social media use can help improve young people's mental wellbeing.
  3. The new law will hold social media companies responsible for checking users' ages. If they fail to enforce this rule, they could face hefty fines, which will help make sure children's online experiences are safer.

The Ad That Radicalised Me

The Ruffian • 1161 implied HN points • 27 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Legislation Ethics Healthcare Public Opinion Social Issues
  1. The debate around assisted dying brings up strong feelings. Some people see the law as a way to help those who are suffering, while others worry it could hurt vulnerable people.
  2. Critics argue that individual choice shouldn't come before community values. They believe allowing assisted dying could lead to a slippery slope where life is devalued.
  3. It's important to talk honestly about the trade-offs involved. Opposing the bill means accepting that some people will continue to suffer, which is a tough reality to face.

Harris's Bold Miscalculation

Erick Erickson's Confessions of a Political Junkie • 3397 implied HN points • 24 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Campaigns Political parties Public Opinion Legislation
  1. Democrats may have misjudged the election by not toning down their extreme views. They felt they could win just by being anti-Trump without appealing to moderates.
  2. Kamala Harris has stuck to her bold positions on issues like abortion and trans rights, which some believe could hurt her in the election. Instead of showing flexibility, she's chosen to dig in her heels.
  3. There are Republicans who oppose both candidates but feel that after Trump, those who supported Harris will have no influence in the GOP. They think Harris's supporters will be left out of future party decisions.

Today In Imperial Recklessness And Insanity

Caitlin’s Newsletter • 1979 implied HN points • 22 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Legislation Foreign Policy Public Opinion War Crimes
  1. The International Criminal Court has issued arrest warrants for Israeli leaders for war crimes, but similar actions against Western officials have not occurred. This shows a lack of accountability for powerful nations.
  2. There is ongoing criticism of U.S. lawmakers for their inadequate responses to violence in Israel and their support of arms sales, even when these arms are used offensively.
  3. Recent statements from U.S. officials suggest a willingness to protect allies in conflict, raising concerns about a broader disregard for international law and human rights.

🚨 BREAKING: Harris Campaign Gives Up. Turns to Shoring Up Congress.

Erick Erickson's Confessions of a Political Junkie • 3557 implied HN points • 22 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Campaigns Legislation Parties Political strategy
  1. Kamala Harris's campaign is shifting focus from trying to win the White House to supporting Congress candidates in red states.
  2. This change shows that her team is acknowledging a likely loss in the presidential race and is instead working to boost House and Senate seats.
  3. This strategy mirrors what Bob Dole did in 1996 when he realized he would lose and turned his efforts to encourage Republican turnout in important districts.

1924 Rathbone hearings, US Congress.

Bailiwick News • 1803 implied HN points • 25 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Congress Legislation Health Policy
  1. In 1924, Congress held hearings to improve regulations on the sale of viruses and serums, aiming to prevent misleading claims about their effectiveness.
  2. Before 1924, some biological products didn't have clear standards showing their potency or effectiveness, which created confusion.
  3. The discussions back then highlighted the need for better protection for people using these products, similar to what was already in place for animals.

ATW Livestream Tonight at 8 PM ET/7 PM CT

TK News by Matt Taibbi • 2157 implied HN points • 18 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Legislation Political Commentary Media Public Opinion
  1. There will be a livestream discussing the recent presidential election and its aftermath. It's a good chance to catch up on the latest news.
  2. California is still counting its election results, with only 93% tabulated so far. This delay has led to some jokes about when they'll finish counting.
  3. Hosts Matt Taibbi and Walter Kirn will talk about high-profile figures visiting Mar-a-Lago. They might explore the significance of such visits in the current political climate.

Weekend Report: What's going on?

The Signorile Report • 1159 implied HN points • 26 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Legislation Political parties Media Public Opinion
  1. The Washington Post faced backlash for not endorsing Vice President Harris, as it had been planned, due to the owner's concerns about government contracts. Many people are upset about this decision.
  2. Donald Trump was late to his rally, which caused some of his supporters to leave, while Kamala Harris had a massive crowd in Texas with star guests like Willie Nelson and Beyoncé.
  3. Democrats are focusing more on state legislative races, seeing them as important for boosting their chances in the presidential election. This strategy aims to strengthen local support and influence.

SB 1047: Our Side Of The Story

Astral Codex Ten • 12182 implied HN points • 10 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Legislation Policy Government Political parties Activism
  1. SB 1047 was a California bill aimed at regulating AI to prevent catastrophic risks from AI technology. It gained support from various influencers and organizations but was eventually vetoed by Governor Newsom.
  2. The bill had strong public backing, with many Californians, including a significant portion of the legislature, in favor of AI regulation. Despite this support, some powerful opponents, including major AI companies and political figures, successfully pushed against it.
  3. The veto has sparked different strategies among supporters of the bill, with some suggesting a broader coalition to pursue future regulatory efforts. They believe that public concerns about AI can't be ignored and regulation is coming, albeit potentially in a more aggressive form.

Sorry, it's not just difference, it is danger

Men Yell at Me • 328 implied HN points • 01 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political divide Legislation Social Issues Women's Rights Identity politics
  1. Political differences can lead to real dangers, not just simple disagreements. It's important to recognize the serious implications these differences can have on people's lives.
  2. Women often face the greatest danger at home, where they are most likely to be attacked or assaulted. Laws that restrict women's rights only add to this danger.
  3. Telling marginalized groups that their lives and rights are less important is harmful. It is crucial to acknowledge and fight against these dangers rather than downplay them.

Illegals, Voting Issues, War & the Weaponized Justice System: Fixing America in 3 Sentences or Less

Tom Renz’s Newsletter • 1091 implied HN points • 26 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Legislation Immigration Election Issues Justice System Foreign Policy
  1. Fixing issues like illegal immigration and voting doesn't have to be complicated. Simple changes to laws or spending could make a big difference.
  2. Many people agree that stopping foreign wars and taking care of Americans first should be a priority. It might only take a few sentences in a bill to make this happen.
  3. The way the justice system is used can feel unfair, especially in politics. Making small adjustments to how funding works could help fix this problem.

It's not easy from here

Gray Mirror • 89 implied HN points • 02 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory Government Structure Legislation Constitutional Law Political History
  1. Focusing on the wrong targets can lead to wasted effort. It's important to identify and direct energy towards the right problems instead of getting distracted by less significant issues.
  2. Political systems can change, but restoring the past often ignores the unique challenges of today. Acknowledging how history shapes our current situation is key to moving forward.
  3. There's a need to rethink how power is used in government. Rather than trying to go back to what worked before, it might be better to find new solutions that fit our current realities.

Weeked Update #109: Ukrainian Land for NATO?

Phillips’s Newsletter • 126 implied HN points • 01 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy Military Strategy Elections International relations Legislation
  1. Ukrainian President Zelensky suggested that Ukraine might consider giving up some territory in exchange for NATO membership. This could stop the current fighting but raises big legal questions about land ownership.
  2. There's some hope for Ukraine supporters with Trump's recent choice of Keith Kellogg as his Ukraine envoy. Kellogg is known for wanting to continue aid to Ukraine, but his overall influence may be limited.
  3. Ukraine has started limited attacks on Russian military targets. This may help them hold onto strategic areas, but it's still too early to tell how it will affect the conflict's direction.

A Memo for Trump's Energy Czar

The Honest Broker Newsletter • 1207 implied HN points • 11 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Energy Policy Legislation Climate change Government Accountability International relations
  1. Energy policy shouldn't just be about undoing past actions. There needs to be a clear plan moving forward that addresses the future needs of the country.
  2. The new energy czar has a chance to shape America's energy policies in a positive direction. This involves creating a comprehensive energy plan that considers reliability and affordability.
  3. It's important to balance energy production with environmental concerns. Supporting cleaner energy technologies can help reduce emissions while also meeting economic goals.

Judicial Notice (10.27.24): Money Talks

Original Jurisdiction • 319 implied HN points • 28 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Judiciary Elections Legal Government Legislation
  1. Susman Godfrey won a huge $1.6 billion verdict for a client, which means they could earn a massive fee. This proves their strength in handling big cases.
  2. Kobre & Kim also had a big win, securing a $605 million jury verdict in a trade secrets case. This shows that some law firms are doing really well right now.
  3. There are talks about potential attorney general candidates for a future Trump administration, indicating shifts in political and legal roles ahead.

Election Exclusive: British Advisors to Kamala Harris Hope to "Kill Musk's Twitter"

The DisInformation Chronicle • 2465 implied HN points • 22 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Election Strategy Foreign influence Political Campaigns Disinformation Legislation
  1. A group of British advisors is working with Kamala Harris to undermine Elon Musk's Twitter. They plan to do this by attacking its advertising revenue and promoting censorship.
  2. The Center for Countering Digital Hate, linked to these advisors, has been active in U.S. politics, attempting to influence legislation and public perception about misinformation online.
  3. There are concerns about the legality of the CCDH's actions, especially since they may violate rules for tax-exempt organizations by engaging in substantial lobbying efforts.

I'm pro-assisted dying in principle, but I'm not sure about the proposed law

Odds and Ends of History • 1340 implied HN points • 19 Nov 24
🏥 Health Politics Ethics Legislation Public Health Social Policy
  1. Assisted dying has good intentions, as it offers a choice to people in pain, but how it’s implemented is very important. We need to make sure that laws respect individual decisions and do not lead to negative outcomes.
  2. The proposed law on assisted dying could be rushed, which raises concerns about its effectiveness and potential problems. It's better to take time to create a solid law that can address all the issues carefully.
  3. Looking at examples from other countries suggests that assisted dying laws can lead to serious issues if not properly controlled. We should learn from their experiences to avoid similar mistakes.

Progressive “Groups”, AI, and Diminishing Returns

From the New World • 124 implied HN points • 21 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Public Opinion Legislation
  1. Progressive groups can impact political outcomes by pushing unpopular ideas, but they keep existing because they operate without accountability.
  2. Recent public opinion has shifted on AI, revealing that previous beliefs about its unlimited potential might not be true. This could change how we approach AI research in the future.
  3. Past political movements often go unpunished when public opinion changes, which is a mistake. We should remember the lessons from these issues to prevent them from happening again.

Pete Hegseth’s Islam Problem

Nonzero Newsletter • 496 implied HN points • 22 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Government Foreign Policy Defense Legislation
  1. Pete Hegseth has controversial views on Islam, suggesting it is a continuous threat to the West, which could impact his role in defense if appointed.
  2. His lack of managerial experience raises concerns about his capabilities to lead the military effectively.
  3. Hegseth's views might worsen tensions with Muslim-majority countries and influence how U.S. foreign policy is shaped, especially regarding military actions.

Democracy in Ohio

Thinking about... • 163 implied HN points • 04 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Voting Rights Democracy Legislation Partisanship
  1. Ohio voters have a chance to support democracy by voting yes on Issue 1, which aims to stop gerrymandering and promote fair electoral maps. This means that everyone’s vote will carry more weight.
  2. Gerrymandering creates unfair electoral districts that favor those already in power, leading to a lack of real competition in elections. This frustration can make people feel like their votes don't matter.
  3. Opponents of Issue 1 are using confusing and misleading language to trick voters into thinking the measure is bad. It's important for voters to understand the truth to ensure fair representation in Ohio.

Charting the path forward: Some things that won't work anymore, and a few that might.

The Future, Now and Then • 172 implied HN points • 22 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Government Political strategy Legislation Civil Rights
  1. There are different possible futures with Trump's second term, ranging from merely bad to much worse. It's important to be aware of both outcomes and prepare accordingly.
  2. Strategies that worked against Trump in his first term may not be effective this time due to stronger control over institutions and a reduced attack surface.
  3. It's essential to focus on building resistance in blue states, highlighting the infighting in Trump's administration, and protecting vulnerable groups while playing the long game.

This Made Me Uncomfortable

Magic + Loss • 795 implied HN points • 17 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Legislation Public Opinion Political parties Political Commentary
  1. Kamala Harris had a strong performance during her interview on Fox News, showing confidence despite the challenging setting.
  2. The interviewer, Bret Baier, often interrupted her and used a less formal way of addressing her, which some found disrespectful.
  3. It's important to avoid both-sidesing in journalism and recognize when one side is being unfairly treated in a conversation.

How Diocletian’s Persecution of Christians Began

The Take (by Jon Miltimore) • 237 implied HN points • 25 Oct 24
💾 History Ancient Rome Christianity Persecution Militarism Legislation
  1. Before Diocletian, Christians in Rome mostly lived without fear of government attack. They experienced a time called 'the little peace of the Church.'
  2. Diocletian's edicts led to a serious crackdown on Christians, starting with public office removals and destroying churches. He aimed to get rid of Christianity but ended up fueling more violence.
  3. The actions of a soldier named Marcellus sparked significant persecution, but many historians think it was part of a larger struggle between old Roman beliefs and the growing Christian faith.

Dingus of the Week: Nancy Mace

Men Yell at Me • 409 implied HN points • 22 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Legislation Civil Rights Political Commentary Government Social Issues
  1. Nancy Mace introduced a bathroom bill targeting trans women, specifically aimed at new Congress member Sarah McBride. This move appears to prioritize political gain over inclusivity.
  2. The author criticizes Mace for claiming to protect women's spaces while potentially harming vulnerable groups, highlighting the hypocrisy in her actions.
  3. During a time when real issues, like rising costs and safety, need attention, Mace's focus on bathroom laws seems misplaced and not beneficial to the public.

Insider Details: The Race for the Senate!

COVID Reason • 218 implied HN points • 23 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Legislation Voting Political strategy Campaigns
  1. The Senate race is getting tight, with many states that seemed safe for Democrats now becoming potential wins for Republicans.
  2. In important states like Ohio and Wisconsin, both parties are fighting hard as the races are seen as toss-ups.
  3. Some unexpected races, like in Nebraska, are showing strong competition for Republicans, indicating this election could lead to surprising results.

THE SHOW NOTES: Harris is Imploding, Milton Surges, & The Crumbling Blue Wall

Erick Erickson's Confessions of a Political Junkie • 1099 implied HN points • 08 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Campaigns Public Opinion Political strategy Legislation
  1. Kamala Harris is struggling with support among working-class voters in key states like Michigan, which is causing concern for her campaign.
  2. Democrats want Harris to focus more on economic issues to better connect with blue-collar workers and union members.
  3. The ongoing violence in the Middle East is causing Arab American voters in Michigan to feel disconnected from the Democratic Party.

Pentagon confirms erasure of Project Maven-related contract records

All-Source Intelligence Fusion • 712 implied HN points • 05 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Defense Surveillance Legislation National Security
  1. The Pentagon deleted public records of a $200 million AI surveillance contract called Project Maven, raising concerns about transparency.
  2. They justified this erasure by citing national security rules that allow withholding information from public databases.
  3. Some agencies, like the CIA, are exempt from certain federal procurement regulations, making it unclear how broadly these rules are applied.

THE SHOW NOTES: Kamala's Bad Answer, Hurricane Milton, & Why Kids Can't Read

Erick Erickson's Confessions of a Political Junkie • 879 implied HN points • 09 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Government Legislation Media Public Opinion
  1. Kamala Harris struggled to explain what she would do differently than President Biden, raising concerns about her leadership skills.
  2. Hurricane Milton is extremely powerful, causing serious evacuation challenges for many residents in Florida, with some areas facing significant storm surges.
  3. There is a worrying trend of elite college students struggling to read, which could have serious implications for education and literacy.

Ten States Have Held Out on Medicaid Expansion. It's Left Millions of Americans Without Health Coverage.

HEALTH CARE un-covered • 439 implied HN points • 23 Sep 24
🏥 Health Politics Medicaid Legislation Public Health
  1. Ten states have not expanded Medicaid, leaving millions of people without health coverage. These states have some of the highest rates of uninsured residents.
  2. Many people in the coverage gap are working but still can't afford health insurance. Their incomes are too high for Medicaid but too low for ACA subsidies.
  3. The refusal to expand Medicaid often comes from political choices, not a lack of need. Many residents want the expansion, but their state governments are not listening.

Judicial Notice (10.13.24): October Surprises

Original Jurisdiction • 459 implied HN points • 13 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Judiciary Legislation Elections Campaigns Civil Rights
  1. Gentner Drummond, Oklahoma's Republican Attorney General, is pushing for a retrial in a controversial death penalty case, which has created division among state officials.
  2. The Supreme Court is looking into a key case about 'ghost guns,' with arguments taking place this week, indicating the court's interest in regulating new gun technologies.
  3. Judge Stephen Higginson from the Fifth Circuit is becoming known for his support of DACA, standing out amidst contrasting views on immigration policy within his court.