The hottest Media influence Substack posts right now

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Harris’s Lost Week

Erick Erickson's Confessions of a Political Junkie • 2298 implied HN points • 01 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Political Analysis Campaigning Public Opinion Media influence
  1. Kamala Harris's speeches and actions during a crucial week seemed overshadowed by Joe Biden's controversial remarks. This created confusion and drew attention away from her message.
  2. Donald Trump was actively campaigning and making headlines, which left Harris and the Democrats trying to play catch-up. Trump's visibility and campaigning style were noticeably more vigorous.
  3. There are signs that Democrats may be struggling with voter enthusiasm, especially among key voter groups. Despite some polls showing enthusiasm, early voting results suggest weaknesses in support.

Amazon blocks online reviews of Angela Merkel's memoir after readers submit a raft of harsh political critique and one-star ratings

eugyppius: a plague chronicle • 190 implied HN points • 03 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Public Discourse Media influence Censorship
  1. Angela Merkel's memoir has received a mix of reviews, with many readers critiquing her lack of self-reflection. They feel she does not acknowledge her mistakes during her time as chancellor.
  2. Amazon has stopped accepting new reviews for the book after receiving a lot of negative feedback, showing that readers are not happy with its content.
  3. Mainstream media reviews are generally positive, focusing on Merkel's achievements, while ordinary readers have a more critical view of her legacy and writing style.

Too Much Of What Happened Was Not Normal

Emerald Robinson’s The Right Way • 3293 implied HN points • 28 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary Elections Biden administration Civil Rights Media influence
  1. A lot of what is happening today doesn't feel normal, and many people are concerned about the state of leadership. It suggests that people question the actions and decisions of current political leaders.
  2. Some believe that the government and big tech are working together to control information and limit free speech. This creates fear and distrust among the public.
  3. Many people feel that they can voice their opinions and protest against current leaders, believing they have the right to influence how their country is run. There's a sense of disillusionment with authority.

When the Edge Lords Lead

Erick Erickson's Confessions of a Political Junkie • 1838 implied HN points • 29 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary Elections Campaign strategies Voter Behavior Media influence
  1. The people leading Trump's events tend to be edgy and enjoy making shocking jokes, which can backfire with voters. They don’t seem to recognize how their humor might upset others.
  2. Comedian Tony Hinchcliffe made a joke that offended many, and his humor reflects how tone-deaf these leaders are to wider voter opinions. This can be risky for Trump’s campaign.
  3. As the election approaches, every mistake could sway undecided voters, so it's crucial for campaigns to focus on appealing to all potential supporters, not just their base.

THE SHOW NOTES: Trump at MSG, The Disturbing Ad, & Nick Bosa

Erick Erickson's Confessions of a Political Junkie • 1179 implied HN points • 28 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Events Elections Public Opinion Media influence Political Commentary
  1. Donald Trump held a big rally at Madison Square Garden with many well-known guests. Some people were not happy with a comedian's controversial jokes at the event.
  2. The Israeli military attacked Iran's air defense systems as part of a response, but they chose not to target major facilities like nuclear sites after pressure from the U.S.
  3. Kamala Harris is pushing for changes in how female leaders are described in reports, but an internal review found no significant bias in the language used.
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Note on Gloating

TK News by Matt Taibbi • 8973 implied HN points • 11 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political culture Media influence Public Opinion Bureaucracy Rhetoric
  1. It's okay to feel some relief after a big defeat, but it's important to stay cautious. Some problems still linger in institutions like schools and media.
  2. Even if things seem better now, there’s a chance that old habits and beliefs can resurface. Staying vigilant is key.
  3. Humor can help us process tough topics, but we shouldn't forget the challenges that may remain.

Big Mommy is Not Coming to Save Us

Freddie deBoer • 15408 implied HN points • 29 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Political Behavior Media influence Party Dynamics Political Ideology
  1. People like Donald Trump, and no amount of media criticism seems to hurt his popularity. Many voters support him despite knowing his flaws.
  2. Democrats often struggle to connect with voters because they don't have a clear message or identity. They need to focus on issues that matter to everyday people.
  3. Expecting that a higher authority will correct wrongs in politics is unrealistic. Voters are looking for practical solutions, not just complaints about Trump.

The majority of news influencers are conservative men, study finds

Taylor Lorenz's Newsletter • 4448 implied HN points • 18 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Media influence Political Bias Gender Issues Social media Public Discourse
  1. Most news influencers are men, and they often have conservative views. This creates a lopsided perspective in the news people consume online.
  2. Social media algorithms tend to favor sensational and emotionally charged content, which means that conservative voices get more attention. This can shape public opinions unfairly.
  3. TikTok is different from other platforms like Facebook and YouTube, as it has a more balanced gender representation among news influencers and doesn't favor conservative views as much.

The Trump Restoration

Justin E. H. Smith's Hinternet • 1762 implied HN points • 07 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory Electoral Politics Party Dynamics Media influence Populism
  1. The idea that the Trump family could become part of the elite class in the future seems possible, especially with younger generations like Barron's kids. This shows how power dynamics can shift over time.
  2. Many people are confused by the political state where a convicted felon can become president. This blending of reality TV and politics complicates our understanding of what's real and what's a show.
  3. Democrats seem to have lost touch with everyday Americans, focusing too much on identity politics instead of real economic issues. This disconnect has allowed Trump and his supporters to thrive.

Save Democracy From Informed Voters: Vote Censorship!

TK News by Matt Taibbi • 7116 implied HN points • 01 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Election Issues Media influence Misinformation Public Discourse
  1. Big media companies are working together to silence critics of the Democratic Party. They target conservative voices, claiming they're spreading misinformation.
  2. The way these companies define misinformation is broad, often including legitimate questions or jokes, leading to censorship.
  3. There's a concerted effort to undermine platforms like Twitter (now X) because they offer alternative views. Groups are trying to stop advertisers from supporting these platforms.

I went to a UFC fight and a Trump rally broke out

The Rubesletter by Matt Ruby (of Vooza) | Sent every Tuesday • 570 implied HN points • 18 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Events Public Opinion Cultural Commentary Political Satire Media influence
  1. Attending UFC events can be a wild mix of sports and pop culture, as seen with celebrities and political figures mingling in the crowd. It shows how these events can attract diverse but passionate fans.
  2. The atmosphere at these events often feels like a rally, where many attendees resonate with the performers more than the actual fights. There's a sense of nostalgia among them for a different way of life they want to reclaim.
  3. People seem more interested in the spectacle and camaraderie than the technical aspects of the fights. Fans boo fighters who don’t engage just like they would at a political event, emphasizing their desire for excitement and connection.

Incessantly calling men toxic is a bad way to get their votes

The Rubesletter by Matt Ruby (of Vooza) | Sent every Tuesday • 2994 implied HN points • 07 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Voting Political parties Public Opinion Media influence
  1. Calling men toxic all the time isn’t a good strategy to win their votes. It’s better to understand and address their feelings instead.
  2. Instead of only focusing on culture wars, politicians should talk about real issues that affect people's lives, like economic struggles.
  3. Men have their own challenges and need to feel valued and heard. Engaging them positively is key to gaining their support.

Meta's Threads is 'overrun' with liberal election fraud conspiracies

Taylor Lorenz's Newsletter • 4598 implied HN points • 10 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Election Issues Political Discourse Media influence Conspiracy Theories
  1. Many people on Meta's Threads are sharing false claims about election fraud, similar to what we saw in previous elections. This shows a growing trend of conspiratorial thinking among some groups.
  2. The social media platform's efforts to limit political content may have created a space where misinformation can thrive. Users often struggle to find reliable news on this app.
  3. As trust in traditional media decreases, both liberals and conservatives are increasingly turning to conspiracy theories. This trend can threaten democracy and public accountability.

Rebel Girls

gender:hacked by Eliza Mondegreen • 1190 implied HN points • 21 Oct 24
🎭️ Culture Feminism Gender Issues Youth culture Identity Media influence
  1. Young girls today face new challenges that weren't present in the past, like social media pressures and unrealistic beauty standards. These factors can harm their self-esteem and mental health.
  2. There's a growing concern about the lack of safe spaces for girls and women to express themselves freely. Many fear speaking out due to potential backlash or judgment.
  3. It's important for girls to learn to love their bodies and build confidence. Staying active, making real-life connections, and enjoying their freedom can help them navigate their identities and lives better.

Can a Graphic Novel Change Housing Policy?

Bet On It • 65 implied HN points • 22 Nov 24
🎭️ Culture Graphic novels Housing policy Media influence Literature Public Discourse
  1. Graphic novels can influence important topics like housing policy. They make complex ideas easier to understand with visuals.
  2. Lower housing costs often get overlooked because people focus on less important concerns. It's important to address what truly matters.
  3. Using engaging media like podcasts can help share and discuss these ideas effectively with a wider audience.

Wikipedia’s Islamist Vandals

American Dreaming • 169 implied HN points • 22 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Misinformation Media influence Historical revisionism Activism
  1. A group of editors has been manipulating Wikipedia pages to make certain groups look better and downplay unpleasant truths, especially regarding the Israel-Palestine conflict.
  2. One major focus of these edits was Hajj Amin al-Husseini, a controversial figure who collaborated with Nazi Germany, with efforts made to hide his negative actions in historical records.
  3. This manipulation of information on Wikipedia shows how easily facts can be distorted online, raising concerns about the reliability of what people read about important historical events.

Notes On The Bezos Debacle At The Washington Post

Big Technology • 6630 implied HN points • 29 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Media influence Journalism Ethics
  1. Jeff Bezos didn't understand his audience at the Washington Post. By not endorsing a candidate, he disappointed many subscribers who expected a clear stance.
  2. Bezos might be trying to change the newspaper's direction. It's possible he's breaking from past norms to create something new, but it's still unclear what that is.
  3. While the idea of not endorsing candidates is interesting, the timing was poor. This decision made people question the newspaper's independence and hurt its trustworthiness.

Nyhetsbrev steigan.no 03.12.2024

steigan.no • 7 implied HN points • 03 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Accountability International relations Election Integrity Military Affairs Media influence
  1. Syria's military has made significant gains by regaining control over key areas from terrorist forces in Aleppo. This pushback has been supported by Russia and Iran, showcasing international alliances in the ongoing conflict.
  2. Nations like Norway are increasing their military involvement in conflicts, including sending troops and aircraft to Poland amid the Ukraine war. This marks a shift from passive support to active participation.
  3. In Georgia, the EU and the USA continue to push for regime change, showing their influence over the country's politics and raising concerns about foreign interventions in domestic affairs.

The Obligatory Pre-Election Newsletter

Singal-Minded • 629 implied HN points • 05 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Political parties Voting Rights Media influence Political Commentary
  1. Voting is important for democracy and should not be taken for granted. It's a privilege that helps shape the future and should be viewed as a responsibility.
  2. Mainstream media can misinterpret or misreport statements, especially from influential figures like Trump, which can create confusion among voters. Proper context is essential for understanding political discussions.
  3. The Democratic Party needs to reflect on its strategies and communication regarding Trump. To effectively convince the public, they should consider new approaches instead of repeating past tactics.

What does Jeff Bezos' non-endorsement mean?

Read Max • 1949 implied HN points • 01 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Analysis Media influence Public Opinion Endorsements Political Campaigns
  1. Jeff Bezos stopped the Washington Post from endorsing a presidential candidate. He believes endorsements can look biased and hurt the paper's reputation.
  2. Staff at the Post were unhappy about Bezos' interference, with some resigning and subscribers canceling. It shows tension between owners and journalists over editorial independence.
  3. TikTok stars like A.J. and Big Justice are popular, but their content can feel confusing or ironic to some. Many wonder if their fans genuinely enjoy them or if it's all a big joke.

MAGA

backstory • 533 implied HN points • 23 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary Cultural analysis Media influence Social Issues Historical context
  1. Technological advances can change society dramatically, sometimes causing more problems than expected. It's important to be mindful of this when we embrace new technology.
  2. Historical events often show us how quickly things can change, like the leap from a successful moon landing to the Apollo 13 crisis. It's a reminder of the unpredictability of progress.
  3. When people seek new experiences, they can end up in awkward situations, but those moments can highlight our shared humanity and the unexpected journeys we take together.

There Are No Alternative Facts: Some Rules For Discerning Reality In This Hallucinogenic Hellscape of Misinformation

Welcome to Garbagetown • 1111 implied HN points • 10 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Misinformation Critical Thinking Media influence Political culture Public Discourse
  1. Misinformation can feel so real that it blurs the lines between fantasy and reality. It's important to recognize that not everything we hear is actually true.
  2. When evaluating bizarre claims, a good question to ask is if believing them would make life much easier or more exciting. If so, it's likely not true and just ridiculous.
  3. People may strongly believe in outrageous ideas and act seriously on them, but we should remain critical and cautious about what we accept as reality.

Here's What I'm Reading Tonight on the Election

COVID Reason • 515 implied HN points • 17 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Political Analysis Campaign Strategy Media influence Voter Behavior
  1. Kamala Harris is facing tough questions about her leadership and actions, which could affect how voters see her as a potential leader. People are starting to doubt her ability to handle future challenges.
  2. There are mixed feelings among Democrats about the upcoming elections; some are feeling hopeful while others are anxious about their chances against Trump. It's a reminder that anything can happen in politics.
  3. The importance of chance in elections is highlighted, suggesting that the outcome might sometimes depend on luck rather than just strategies and campaigning. It's an interesting thought about how unpredictable politics can be.

Our capacity to forget

Residual Thoughts • 119 implied HN points • 28 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary Elections Media influence Public Perception
  1. People can easily forget serious issues over time, like how many were outraged by concussions in football but now may watch the NFL again without the same concern.
  2. There's a noticeable shift in support for Trump among some wealthy tech people, focusing on economic benefits while overlooking ethical concerns.
  3. It's important to remember the negative impacts of past events related to Trump's presidency, especially during quieter times when those issues might fade from memory.

The Catturd to Silicon Valley Billionaire Pipeline Must Be Broken

Richard Hanania's Newsletter • 2218 implied HN points • 28 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political parties Elections Media influence Public Discourse Political Ideology
  1. The rise of the Tech Right was seen as a positive at first, but it has led to smart people spreading misinformation. It shows that even intelligent individuals can be misled in the wrong environment.
  2. Silicon Valley billionaires have aligned more closely with the Republican party and have become major donors. This shift has changed the political landscape in unexpected ways.
  3. It's important to understand that our surroundings greatly influence how we think. If the environment is full of false information, even rational people can fall for it.

The Phantom Campaign

Thinking about... • 611 implied HN points • 17 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Campaigns Disinformation Media influence Voting behavior
  1. Manipulative ads can sway voters by showing misleading information. These ads can create confusion and push people towards apathy about voting.
  2. Techniques used in past campaigns, like targeted propaganda, are still being used today. This has affected people's perceptions and discourages them from participating in elections.
  3. We should be aware of how powerful individuals influence our political views. With their resources, they can distort information and impact the democratic process in harmful ways.

Bursting Bubbles

David Friedman’s Substack • 242 implied HN points • 19 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Political Beliefs Political parties Media influence
  1. People often react to uncomfortable truths or losses in different ways. Some might deny the truth, while others might try to explain it away.
  2. When their beliefs are challenged, individuals tend to adjust their views to fit new information while keeping some old beliefs intact.
  3. In extreme cases, people might refuse to accept objective truth and defend their beliefs as a way to maintain their group identity.

Americans Had Two Decades to Ditch Dr. Oz. Now He's in Charge.

OK Doomer • 146 implied HN points • 20 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Healthcare policy Public Health Media influence Political Commentary
  1. Dr. Oz has been appointed to oversee Medicare and Medicaid, which could negatively impact millions of Americans. His history of promoting questionable health products raises concerns about his leadership.
  2. There is a risk that Dr. Oz will push for privatized Medicare and Medicaid, potentially resulting in millions losing their healthcare coverage. This approach contrasts with the desire for universal healthcare access.
  3. Dr. Oz's past comments and actions suggest he prioritizes profits over people's health, and this pattern may continue in his new role. His decisions could affect the well-being of vulnerable populations, especially low-income families and seniors.

Organized and Coordinated Attacks

Points And Figures • 879 implied HN points • 03 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political strategy Election Process Party Dynamics Voter Behavior Media influence
  1. The Democratic Party operates in a top-down manner, allowing members to understand their roles without needing direct instruction. This structure helps them coordinate efforts effectively, especially during elections.
  2. Republicans are more decentralized, leading to a wider variety of beliefs and approaches. This can create challenges in organizing efforts like voter turnout compared to Democrats.
  3. Recent polls and media narratives might not accurately reflect voter sentiment, raising concerns about their credibility. Many believe that political manipulation and biased reporting can skew public perception ahead of elections.

Election Countdown, 11 Days to Go: Reasons to be Brave.

Breaking the News • 1500 implied HN points • 26 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Civic engagement Political Commentary Media influence Voting Rights
  1. People should be brave and confident in their beliefs, especially during political campaigns. It's important to face challenges with determination and pride.
  2. Leadership and hope are powerful motivators for citizens. Most Americans want to strive for a better future together rather than succumb to negativity.
  3. Collaboration across political lines is essential. It’s crucial to focus on unity and the things we stand for, rather than getting lost in division and despair.

Notes From the Periphery on the Recent Election in the Empire

Atlas of Wonders and Monsters • 186 implied HN points • 16 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Political Commentary Political culture Media influence Public Discourse
  1. The writer is overwhelmed by the amount of political news and feels the need to express their thoughts to feel better. It's like trying to clear a cluttered mind.
  2. They think the long U.S. election cycle is unhealthy and wish it were shorter, similar to elections in other countries. This way, people could avoid the stress that comes with such extended campaigning.
  3. Despite their reluctance to write about politics, they feel it’s necessary for their mental well-being, which shows how important it is for people to talk about things that bother them.

Citizen Musk

Robert Reich • 32331 implied HN points • 26 Jan 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Political Rhetoric Media influence Wealth Inequality Democracy
  1. Elon Musk has been spreading misinformation about immigration and voting laws, similar to Trump's tactics.
  2. Musk's massive influence and control over Twitter (X) pose a threat to democracy and accountability.
  3. The concentration of wealth in individuals like Musk can be dangerous for democracy by allowing them to evade consequences and manipulate public opinion.

The myth of red states and blue states

Men Yell at Me • 768 implied HN points • 30 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political divide Media influence Cultural Issues Economic Inequality
  1. The idea that America is divided into red states and blue states is a myth. People actually live alongside each other, sharing many common experiences and perspectives.
  2. Wealth plays a big role in political divides. Those who have money can often ignore the struggles faced by others, but most Americans are living in the same realities, dealing with the same issues.
  3. There's no safe place to escape the political mess, and tuning out isn't an option for most. We all have to navigate these challenges together, as one America.

kitten corner: late night conspiracies

bad cattitude • 220 implied HN points • 20 Nov 24
🏥 Health Politics Public Health Conspiracy Theories Media influence
  1. Pharmaceutical companies advertise heavily on TV, which seems unusual to some people. It makes you wonder why all the TV content is often in favor of these companies.
  2. The author expresses a sense of confusion about the relationship between media messaging and the interests of pharma companies.
  3. There's a hint of worry from the author about how working in this environment might be affecting their thoughts and perceptions.

This Is a Test for America

Yascha Mounk • 3517 implied HN points • 16 Jul 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political violence Elections Political parties Public Opinion Media influence
  1. Most Americans are against political violence and were saddened by the attempt on Trump's life. This shows a basic commitment to resolving differences peacefully, which is important for a healthy democracy.
  2. Unfortunately, there are still some who celebrate violence and mock its victims. This reaction reflects a deeper frustration with American institutions, which many feel are failing to provide safety and security.
  3. While America has a lot of strengths, the mix of political anger, conspiracy thinking, and institutional failures presents a real risk. If not addressed, these issues could threaten the decent instincts that many ordinary Americans share.

Doctors migrating to bluesky is like Harris declining to speak with Joe Rogan

Vinay Prasad's Observations and Thoughts • 219 implied HN points • 15 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Election Dynamics Political Ideology Public Discourse Media influence Social media
  1. Some doctors are leaving social media platforms like X for newer sites like Bluesky, especially after the recent elections. This change seems more emotional than principled since they didn't leave when their views were challenged earlier.
  2. Kamala Harris declined to speak with Joe Rogan because she was worried about upsetting her progressive supporters. This shows a reluctance to engage with differing opinions.
  3. People with far left views often avoid conversations with those they disagree with, which can harm communication and understanding. This avoidance might damage academic and public discourse over time.

Sudden internet fame is warping teenagers' lives

Simon Owens's Media Newsletter • 324 implied HN points • 25 Oct 24
🎭️ Culture Social media Media influence Cultural impact
  1. Teenagers can become famous on the internet very quickly. This sudden fame can change how they see themselves and how others treat them.
  2. Being famous online brings real-life challenges that these young people might not be ready to handle. It can affect their daily lives and relationships.
  3. Society needs to understand this new type of fame better. It's something that has never happened at this scale before, and it’s important to talk about its effects.

Donald and the Pincer

The Abbey of Misrule • 498 implied HN points • 07 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political trends Populism Media influence Cultural critique Globalization
  1. Many people feel frustrated with the political and media establishment, and they want change. This feeling is similar to what led to movements like Brexit and the rise of populist parties.
  2. Progressive leftism and corporate capitalism are working together more than ever. Both are promoting a modern world that values technology and globalism, often ignoring local traditions and cultures.
  3. There's a growing push for a different approach rooted in local identities and community values. Some believe we need to focus on what truly matters in our lives, rather than getting caught up in modern political divisions.

Let's Look at the Map. Trump May Not Need Michigan and Pennsylvania.

Vicky Ward Investigates • 119 implied HN points • 18 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Campaign Strategy Election Dynamics Political Analysis Media influence Voting Trends
  1. Trump might benefit because Kamala Harris hasn't distanced herself from Biden enough.
  2. Spending a lot on ads may not help much once you've reached most voters, so the extra funds might not matter.
  3. The electoral map shows that Trump might not need to win Michigan or Pennsylvania to succeed.

the democratic joe rogan

bad cattitude • 357 implied HN points • 09 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary Election Analysis Media influence Public Opinion Identity politics
  1. The left is struggling with a lack of humor, thought diversity, and genuine connection, making it hard to attract new supporters. It often resorts to strict ideological tests that push people away.
  2. Many former left-leaning individuals feel alienated as the party has become more extreme, pushing them to seek alternatives. This shift has created frustration and led to a sense of disconnection with the mainstream.
  3. There is a desire for authenticity and genuine conversation in politics. People are tired of fake interactions and want leaders who can ask tough questions and speak honestly, rather than sticking to scripted, safe narratives.