The hottest National Security Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
Category
Top U.S. Politics Topics
Don't Worry About the Vase 3225 implied HN points 27 Nov 24
  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.
Caitlin’s Newsletter 1341 implied HN points 25 Nov 24
  1. Trump's cabinet appointments suggest a focus on aggressive policies toward Russia, rather than a peaceful resolution in Ukraine. This raises concerns about increased tensions.
  2. Key advisors like Mike Waltz and Sebastian Gorka support escalating military actions, which aligns with strategies of the outgoing Biden administration. This continuity might not lead to the peace many expect.
  3. There are fears that the incoming Trump administration could worsen the situation in Ukraine instead of improving it, potentially delaying any chance for peace.
SemiAnalysis 10102 implied HN points 28 Oct 24
  1. Chinese companies, particularly Huawei, are successfully finding loopholes to avoid U.S. export controls on advanced semiconductor technology. This allows them to enhance their domestic chip production capabilities.
  2. The current U.S. sanctions have not significantly harmed Western wafer fabrication equipment suppliers; in fact, these companies have been thriving during the period of restrictions.
  3. Future U.S. export controls need to be stricter and updated regularly to effectively combat the evasion strategies used by Chinese firms, ensuring that national security interests are maintained.
The Corbett Report 8 implied HN points 24 Nov 24
  1. There is a growing concern about the 'AI gap' between the US and China, which is becoming a new focus for national security. People are worried that if the US doesn't catch up, it could lose its edge in technology.
  2. The idea of an 'AI gap' is likened to the old 'missile gap' scare from the Cold War. Both were used to create fear and justify increased spending on military and technology.
  3. Even though the 'AI gap' talk may feel exaggerated, the real dangers of AI technology, like autonomous weapons, shouldn't be overlooked. It's important to be aware of the genuine risks while questioning the motives behind the narratives.
Erick Erickson's Confessions of a Political Junkie 1179 implied HN points 21 Oct 24
  1. Trump's campaign messages resonate with voters, particularly on cultural issues, while Democrats struggle to connect with certain demographics like men and minorities.
  2. The recent leaks of classified information from the Biden-Harris administration raise serious concerns about national security and the integrity of intelligence operations.
  3. Kamala Harris's campaign appears ineffective as she distances herself from traditional voter outreach and relies on celebrity endorsements rather than genuine connection with the public.
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Emerald Robinson’s The Right Way 2817 implied HN points 10 Oct 24
  1. Some believe that the Biden administration has ongoing control over social media platforms like Twitter/X, keeping a level of censorship in place.
  2. There seems to be significant involvement from various government agencies in discussions about topics like election fraud on social media.
  3. Recent social media posts gained massive traction, with millions of impressions, highlighting a strong public interest in these controversial topics.
Vicky Ward Investigates 599 implied HN points 21 Oct 24
  1. Trump is skilled at distracting the news media with bizarre comments, taking attention away from important issues. This keeps journalists focused on the flashy stories instead of serious topics.
  2. Jared Kushner's business connections with Saudi Arabia pose potential risks to U.S. foreign policy. There are concerns that his ties could influence national interests if Trump were to become president again.
  3. The couple, Jared and Ivanka, is pursuing new business ventures that could also raise eyebrows about possible conflicts of interest. Their social media portrays a glamorous lifestyle that distracts from the seriousness of their past and current connections.
ChinaTalk 207 implied HN points 12 Nov 24
  1. The DOJ is creating new data security rules to help protect American personal data from foreign threats. This is important because foreign adversaries could use sensitive information against us.
  2. Companies need to be careful about how they handle sensitive data, especially when dealing with countries considered 'adversarial'. There will be strict rules about who they can sell data to and how to keep it secure.
  3. Public feedback is vital in shaping these new rules. The DOJ wants companies to share their thoughts so they can finalize a plan that protects national security without harming the economy.
Emerald Robinson’s The Right Way 2380 implied HN points 03 Oct 24
  1. Project Sentinel is a group of experienced experts who offer solutions to current problems in America. They focus on informing people about political issues and strategies to counter perceived threats.
  2. These experts believe America is facing a serious crisis, comparing it to a coup d'état, and they emphasize the need for constitutional solutions to restore order.
  3. Members can access high-quality intelligence updates and advice from this elite group, which includes national security analysts and former military personnel.
Emerald Robinson’s The Right Way 1646 implied HN points 07 Oct 24
  1. Trump's national security team received warnings about ANTIFA, BLM, and COVID-19 but did not take action on them. This raises questions about decision-making during critical times.
  2. A group called Project Sentinel aims to share intelligence and insights on national security, highlighting concerns about the government's actions against citizens.
  3. Only certain subscribers will access exclusive intelligence summaries from the last days of the Trump administration, emphasizing the importance of this information for understanding past events.
Contemplations on the Tree of Woe 1153 implied HN points 19 Oct 24
  1. Tariffs can help raise money for government services, especially for defense and border security. By applying a uniform tariff on imported goods, it aims to make the tax system fairer for everyone involved.
  2. Historically, high tariffs were essential for the growth of the U.S. economy and protecting local industries. Examples from the past show that many countries successfully used tariffs to develop their manufacturing sectors.
  3. While tariffs might increase the cost of living, they can also boost domestic production and potentially lead to higher wages. The idea is that by protecting local jobs, the overall economy can become stronger.
The Dossier 227 implied HN points 14 Nov 24
  1. The president-elect should focus on removing policies related to DEI and ESG in the government. This means cleaning up programs that are seen as overly progressive.
  2. Taking care of military personnel affected by previous mandates should be a priority. Soldiers who faced penalties for not following vaccination orders deserve reinstatement and compensation.
  3. Using executive orders can help the new president quickly implement his agenda. This includes reversing previous harmful orders and tackling government waste effectively.
All-Source Intelligence Fusion 1485 implied HN points 26 Oct 24
  1. The U.S. government removed records of a $142 million contract for AI drone warfare called 'Project Maven.' This deletion happened without any public announcement.
  2. Interestingly, another related contract worth $52 million was also deleted from public records. These actions raise concerns about transparency in government spending.
  3. The defense spokesperson stated that the deletions were justified for national security reasons. This suggests that some information might be kept secret for safety.
All-Source Intelligence Fusion 712 implied HN points 05 Nov 24
  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.
Erick Erickson's Confessions of a Political Junkie 819 implied HN points 03 Oct 24
  1. Israel has launched airstrikes against Hezbollah, indicating a possible escalation in their ongoing conflict. This suggests that Israel is taking a more aggressive stance during the current tensions.
  2. Iran faces challenges in defending itself as it lacks a strong air force. The situation suggests that Iran may be more vulnerable than it has been in many years.
  3. Democrats are struggling to keep support from Hispanic voters, which could impact future elections. The shift in voting trends among this group is seen as significant and may change the political landscape.
ChinaTalk 681 implied HN points 22 Oct 24
  1. Trump's foreign policy could increase the risk of conflict. Instead of promoting peace, his approach may lead to war by weakening alliances.
  2. His plans for Ukraine and Taiwan involve risky deals that could encourage aggression from Russia and China. This could make the U.S. less trusted by its allies and more likely to be dragged into a war.
  3. Maintaining a strong military and solid international relationships is key to avoiding World War III. A weak approach to foreign policy might upset the balance of power and lead to catastrophic outcomes.
Comment is Freed 86 implied HN points 19 Nov 24
  1. Trump might push for a deal with Ukraine, but it could favor Putin more than Ukraine itself. This raises concerns for European allies who depend on Ukraine's resistance against Russia.
  2. Ukraine is not a top priority for Trump, as his main focus lies on domestic issues like immigration, taxes, and trade with China. His administration may not have clear plans for Ukraine yet.
  3. If Trump is unable to secure a peace deal, there are questions about how much support he will continue to offer Ukraine. This uncertainty creates worries for Ukraine's future security and recovery.
BIG by Matt Stoller 55463 implied HN points 20 Oct 23
  1. The Pentagon lacks oversight in tracking defense contractors, leading to issues in weapon production
  2. The defense industrial base is facing challenges due to prioritization of cash out over production
  3. The Government Accountability Office highlighted the lack of tracking defense-related mergers in the Pentagon, posing risks to national security
Pekingnology 37 implied HN points 30 Oct 24
  1. China should not make new enemies and should instead focus on its own domestic issues. Keeping peace and developing internally is key for China’s future.
  2. It's important for China to work with its current allies while also improving relationships with others. This will help China gain support and reduce opposition in the world.
  3. China's approach to international relations needs to integrate both domestic and global considerations. What happens inside China can impact how the world sees it.
Noahpinion 21470 implied HN points 11 Mar 24
  1. Trump's recent actions regarding TikTok have stunned many conservative China hawks, revealing potential ulterior motives and alliances.
  2. The debate on forcing ByteDance to sell TikTok involves concerns about data privacy, propaganda dissemination, and national security, highlighting the app's significant influence.
  3. The situation with TikTok exemplifies broader international conflicts, potential financial influences, and political interplays that impact policymaking and national security strategies.
Glenn’s Substack 1099 implied HN points 19 Aug 24
  1. NATO's involvement in Ukraine started with the 2014 coup, which led to increased tensions with Russia. This has shaped the current conflict, making it more than just a territorial dispute.
  2. Russia's responses to NATO's actions have been cautious, as they fear escalating to nuclear war. They are carefully considering how to react without triggering a larger conflict.
  3. The narrative in Western media portrays Russia as the sole aggressor, ignoring the complexities of NATO's role. This can limit discussions on diplomatic solutions and foster more hostility.
The Chris Hedges Report 150 implied HN points 08 Nov 24
  1. Trump might go back to being president and that could change how the U.S. deals with global issues. His actions could affect the situation in places like Gaza, Ukraine, and Iran.
  2. Wilkerson believes Trump doesn't really want to start wars but has a strong loyalty to Israel. This makes it tricky because any support for Israel could lead to conflicts, especially with Iran.
  3. Both Trump and Biden might lead the U.S. to support harsh policies in the Middle East, which could worsen the lives of people there, particularly in places like Gaza.
God's Spies by Thomas Neuburger 110 implied HN points 23 Oct 24
  1. Hate and revenge can be taught from one generation to the next, much like a curse that keeps going.
  2. The actions of powerful countries, like the U.S. and Israel, have serious consequences that may lead to more violence and retribution.
  3. It's important to remember the past and understand that people who suffer might seek revenge, which can lead to cycles of violence that never seem to end.
Noahpinion 18882 implied HN points 27 Feb 24
  1. The rise of new technologies like smartphones and social media has presented democracies with a formidable opponent in the form of techno-totalitarian regimes.
  2. China employs a strategy of 'sharp power' to manipulate foreign entities and influence global affairs, utilizing tactics like espionage, social media manipulation, and economic coercion.
  3. China's unique totalitarian approach extends beyond its borders to control the narrative about China, influence the diaspora, and emphasize supremacy of ethnicity over citizenship, posing a new challenge for democracies and liberal principles.
Construction Physics 208 implied HN points 23 Oct 24
  1. Learning about China's aircraft industry can be challenging, but there are valuable resources available. These include government reports, media articles, and books that cover the topic.
  2. RAND reports are particularly useful for understanding the progress of Chinese aerospace. They provide in-depth analysis on various aspects of commercial aircraft manufacturing in China.
  3. If you're interested in this field, starting with reputable reports can give you a solid foundation, even if they are not easily readable like a typical book.
Diane Francis 1218 implied HN points 01 Aug 24
  1. China has been cheating in trade by stealing ideas and lying about its deals. This has been hurting businesses and countries that rely on China.
  2. NATO has accused China of supporting Russia by giving them supplies, even after China promised not to. This shows that China can't be trusted in international agreements.
  3. China is also involved in the drug trade, providing materials to Mexican cartels. Despite their denials, evidence shows they continue to help with drug problems.
Bulwark+ 9552 implied HN points 31 Jan 24
  1. The Fourteenth Amendment was drafted in response to specific concerns about real-world actions from the past.
  2. The Fourteenth Amendment's Section 3 was written to prevent individuals like John B. Floyd, who violated their oath of office, from holding government positions.
  3. The progression of authoritarianism in America reveals the fragility of our system's guardrails when confronted one by one.
TK News by Matt Taibbi 9811 implied HN points 15 Mar 24
  1. Public opinion on the TikTok ban has shifted from strong support to opposition over time.
  2. The passage of the Protecting Americans from Foreign Adversary Controlled Applications Act has raised concerns about potential overreach in granting new powers to the President.
  3. There are worries that the bill could have implications beyond TikTok, leading to broader speech controls and threats to freedom of expression.
Thái | Hacker | Kỹ sư tin tặc 6810 implied HN points 11 Feb 24
  1. Visiting the White House to discuss cybersecurity and AI for Vietnam showed the importance of global connections and the need to align local programs with broader international initiatives.
  2. Efforts to engage government support require strategic positioning within larger global agendas, as seen during the meeting with the National Security Council.
  3. Navigating policy advocacy involves persistence and optimism, as demonstrated by the challenges and outcomes of the meeting at the White House.
Jeff Giesea 279 implied HN points 16 Sep 24
  1. A lot of U.S. venture capital comes from foreign investors, which can present risks to national security. It's important to know where the money is coming from to protect innovation.
  2. Stricter rules and more transparency are needed in venture capital to prevent foreign influence and risks, especially in critical tech sectors.
  3. We should encourage the creation of venture funds that support U.S. interests and work with government agencies to secure technological advancements.
The Status Kuo 10534 implied HN points 27 Jun 23
  1. The audio tape provides direct evidence of Trump's willful dissemination of national security information.
  2. Trump has a history of being caught on tape admitting to or in the process of committing crimes.
  3. The importance of holding Trump accountable for compromising national secrets is crucial, regardless of the final legal outcome.
Today's Edition Newsletter 8824 implied HN points 09 Oct 23
  1. The attack on Israel happened during a time of deep political division in the country.
  2. Republicans have been obstructing the confirmation of diplomatic appointments in the Middle East.
  3. Senator Tommy Tuberville has blocked the appointment of 300 senior officers in the US military.
Emerald Robinson’s The Right Way 6130 implied HN points 10 Jan 24
  1. America is seen as a post-constitutional nation by some, with the federal government having no clear limitations.
  2. There are concerns about the infiltration of communism in American society, with examples like rigged elections and foreign interference.
  3. The urgency for unity and support for independent journalism is emphasized as a means to combat perceived threats and challenges.
The Dossier 3400 implied HN points 01 Feb 24
  1. Ilhan Omar aligns with a puppet regime in Mogadishu that sold out Somalia to foreign powers.
  2. Omar has close ties to Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, considered by many to be illegitimate.
  3. Omar's first husband, the father of her children, is a senior adviser to the president of Somalia.
Phillips’s Newsletter 174 implied HN points 13 Oct 24
  1. Ukrainians feel worried about their support from the U.S. as the upcoming presidential election could lead to less aid if Trump wins. There's a real fear of feeling abandoned during the war.
  2. Despite their worries, Ukraine is showing strong efforts in their military strategy by successfully attacking Russian supply lines, demonstrating they can hit key targets effectively.
  3. America's support for Ukraine remains uncertain, with some leaders expressing no appetite for further aid. This makes it hard for Ukraine to feel secure as they fight for their independence.