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Top U.S. Politics Topics

First half of 2023: 7 big health insurers pulled in $683 billion in revenues – largely through taxpayer-supported programs and the pharmacy supply chain

HEALTH CARE un-covered • 619 implied HN points • 06 Sep 23
🏥 Health Politics Insurance Healthcare Policy Economics Regulation
  1. In the first half of 2023, seven major health insurance companies made over $683 billion in revenue, mainly from government programs like Medicare and Medicaid. This shows a lot of reliance on taxpayer-supported programs.
  2. Despite these huge profits, Wall Street is not satisfied with the health insurers. Investors believe the companies are not raising premiums enough to keep up with demand for healthcare after pandemic delays.
  3. To please investors, these insurers may increase premiums for customers and limit coverage for medical care. This trend highlights the struggle between corporate profit motives and patient care.

Eyes on the Bleeding States

The View from Rural Missouri by Jess Piper • 398 implied HN points • 12 Dec 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics State Politics Legislation Policy Social Issues Government
  1. Red states have uncontested seats leading to extreme Republican representation caused by years of disinvestment by Democrats.
  2. Laws passed in red states can have far-reaching effects beyond their borders, affecting everyone regardless of the state they live in.
  3. The impact of oppressive legislation in bleeding states showcases the potential for similar actions to occur in any state, posing a threat to rights and safety.

January 7, 2025

Letters from an American • 15 implied HN points • 08 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Policy Legislation Elections Environmental justice
  1. President Biden has created new national monuments in California, protecting nearly 848,000 acres of land. This helps safeguard important natural and cultural sites.
  2. Biden also protected millions of acres of ocean from oil drilling to ensure the health of coastal economies and ecosystems. Even though oil companies aren't showing much interest now, this law prevents future drilling.
  3. There's a push among some Republican lawmakers to transfer federal lands to state control, which could lead to privatization and might hurt public access to these lands. Keeping public lands protected is vital for jobs and local economies.
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What Do They Want?

Points And Figures • 559 implied HN points • 26 Feb 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Policy Government Economics Social Issues Cryptocurrency
  1. Power is the ultimate goal for those in political positions, beyond money or economic profit.
  2. Political systems can be analyzed using economic theories like supply and demand curves applied to power dynamics.
  3. The push and pull between centralized and decentralized government is evident in various aspects, including cryptocurrency and tokenization.

Why can't the left understand restrictions on immigration?

Unreported Truths • 99 implied HN points • 22 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Immigration Policy Border control Political Commentary
  1. Some people believe having control over immigration is necessary. They argue that the reasons many migrants seek entry don't align with traditional asylum purposes.
  2. Recent immigration policies have led to criticisms from various groups, particularly concerning the treatment of migrants at the borders.
  3. The understanding of who should be allowed in and under what conditions is a big debate, leading to significant political consequences.

Video Clips of Iraq Invasion Lies: Beyond Cheney/Bush -- From Biden to Powell to Pelosi

husseini • 530 implied HN points • 19 Mar 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Policy Politicians History Media
  1. There were multiple lies about the Iraq invasion and these lies influenced the culture.
  2. The narrative that the Iraq invasion was a failure is actually a lie; it was a strategic success.
  3. The web of lies surrounding the Iraq invasion spanned multiple administrations, not just Bush and Cheney, including figures like Biden, Powell, and Pelosi.

Reflections on AHM v. FDA

Adam's Legal Newsletter • 679 implied HN points • 22 Apr 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Legal Judiciary Government Justice Policy
  1. The Supreme Court's order in AHM v. FDA indicates the FDA will likely prevail; legal arguments have been thoroughly aired and further briefing is not expected to change the outcome.
  2. The litigation in AHM v. FDA will continue, with the Fifth Circuit hearing oral arguments next; the Supreme Court may reverse a Fifth Circuit decision if needed.
  3. Proposals to prevent similar situations include eliminating single-judge divisions to avoid forum shopping and improve the administration of justice without needing broader, unwarranted changes.

Can't Even Agree

Points And Figures • 612 implied HN points • 29 Jan 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Policy Partisanship Elections Economy Government
  1. The political divide in 2024 is expected to escalate due to Democrats and Republicans each having different motives.
  2. Lack of trust and differing approaches on issues like immigration, education, health, free trade, and taxes contribute to the division.
  3. Advocacy for free markets as a way to restore trust, build consensus, and promote personal responsibility.

The Art World’s Enfant Terrible Runs for Senate

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 500 implied HN points • 04 Mar 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Election Government Policy Society Culture
  1. Stefan Simchowitz is running for Senate but doesn't expect to win, viewing it more as a platform to share his ideas.
  2. Simchowitz, known as the 'Art World’s Patron Satan', has an unconventional approach in the art world, supporting struggling artists and circumventing traditional systems.
  3. His political views lean towards a mix of centrist and progressive ideologies, advocating for entrepreneurial government solutions and challenging progressive politics and DEI initiatives.

They’re Coming for Your Porn

American Dreaming • 61 implied HN points • 04 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Policy Legislation Civil Rights Social Issues Political Movements
  1. There's a growing movement in some states to criminalize pornography, and this could affect many people, including teachers and libraries. The laws are being pushed mainly by conservative groups who believe it harms society.
  2. Many states now require people to prove their age to access adult content, which raises concerns about online privacy and data security. This could lead to personal information being exposed or abused.
  3. Instead of banning porn, better sex education is needed to help young people understand relationships and sexual health. Open conversations about sex can help prepare kids for the realities of adulthood.

Nyhetsbrev steigan.no 10.02.2025

steigan.no • 4 implied HN points • 10 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Economy Debt Policy International relations
  1. The real US national debt might be over $158 trillion, far more than the official $36 trillion. This puts huge pressure on programs like Social Security and Medicare, warning that they could run out of funds in the near future.
  2. High and unpredictable electricity prices in Norway are partly due to Europe's move away from Russian gas, not just new power cables. This shift has serious implications for energy prices and policies.
  3. Many current European political debates could be better understood through psychology, as leaders seem to avoid confronting failures directly, instead focusing on less relevant issues.

Import AI 340: Drone VS human (Drone wins); Adept's small but good AI model; "AI Succession"

Import AI • 499 implied HN points • 18 Sep 23
🕹 Technology AI Computing Policy
  1. Adept has released an impressive small AI model that performs exceptionally well and is optimized for accessibility on various devices.
  2. AI pioneer Richard Sutton suggests the idea of 'AI Succession', where machines could surpass humans in driving progress forward, emphasizing the need for careful navigation of AI development.
  3. A drone controlled by an autonomous AI system defeated human pilots in a challenging race, showcasing advancements in real-world reinforcement learning capabilities.

CDC Warns CDC’s Own Scientists That Their Finding on Masks “Is Not Scientifically Correct”

The DisInformation Chronicle • 865 implied HN points • 08 Feb 24
🏥 Health Politics Masks CDC Whistleblowers Policy
  1. CDC Director Mandy Cohen did not dismiss the idea of reinstituting mask mandates for toddlers.
  2. CDC's own scientists are in disagreement with the claim that N95 respirators are more effective than surgical masks.
  3. CDC has faced controversy over shifting stances on mask efficacy in stopping the spread of COVID.

Election Countdown, 258 Days to Go: The New Politics of Place.

Breaking the News • 487 implied HN points • 21 Feb 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Election Policy Opportunity Investment Economy
  1. Place has always been significant in American personal stories and national politics, influencing decisions to stay or go.
  2. Federal policies are beginning to bring more opportunities to historically neglected areas, such as the Rust Belt, by strategically directing investments.
  3. There is a shift towards more planned and effective federal initiatives that focus on boosting local economies and communities, recognizing the importance of place-based growth.

AI Roundup 098: Flash Thinking

Artificial Ignorance • 29 implied HN points • 20 Dec 24
🕹 Technology AI Innovation Data Software Policy
  1. Google has introduced a new AI model called Gemini Flash Thinking, which aims to improve AI reasoning. This model is part of a trend where companies want AI to think more like humans.
  2. OpenAI is facing legal challenges while trying to shift to a for-profit model, which could affect its future. They are also experimenting with new features and tools despite these issues.
  3. The UK government is pushing for more transparency from AI companies about their training data, while many in the creative industry are resisting this change as it might threaten their copyright protections.

Kyrsten Sinema and the Problem of Toxic Capitalism

Changing The Channel • 737 implied HN points • 12 Dec 22
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Economics Government Policy
  1. The American economic system favors the wealthy and neglects those in greatest need, creating challenges for many people.
  2. Toxic late-stage capitalism is described as a system lacking decency, ethics, and morality.
  3. Kyrsten Sinema, an Arizona Senator, is criticized for prioritizing the interests of the wealthiest Americans over supporting essential initiatives for the broader population.

Cascade of Errors

Pitchfork Papers • 235 implied HN points • 09 Feb 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Policy Activism
  1. Problems often arise when people fail to think things through to their logical conclusion.
  2. The idea of understanding everything from first principles has been challenged by the complexity of nature and modern technology.
  3. Errors in decision-making can lead to a chain reaction of negative consequences in various aspects of society.

Biden's AUMF Lie

Eunomia • 235 implied HN points • 05 Feb 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Policy Conflict
  1. President Biden is claiming that the 2001 and 2002 AUMFs justify ordering attacks in Iraq and Syria, but this is not accurate.
  2. Biden's official policy includes repealing the Iraq AUMF, and skepticism is raised regarding justifying recent strikes under the 2001 AUMF.
  3. Past attempts to use outdated AUMFs for military actions have been widely criticized as unjustified and not applicable.

We are all vegans at a BBQ joint

The Rubesletter by Matt Ruby (of Vooza) | Sent every Tuesday • 427 implied HN points • 12 Mar 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Election President Immigration Policy Political strategy
  1. The upcoming election highlights the dilemma of feeling like a vegan at a BBQ joint, with both sides having their quirks and pitfalls.
  2. The focus on Biden's age isn't just media-driven, but a genuine concern due to public observations.
  3. Having a boring President might be good because politics should be functional and uneventful, unlike the chaos of previous administrations.

Against Far-Right Political Violence

sebjenseb • 255 implied HN points • 22 Jan 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Violence Terrorism Immigration Policy Influence
  1. Far-right political violence in the United States has resulted in numerous terror attacks and deaths.
  2. Terrorism, including far-right violence, has historically been ineffective in achieving its objectives and often leads to negative consequences.
  3. Engaging in violent political actions is risky and usually counterproductive, with little impact on policy or societal change.

↩ Flashback Friday: A Quick Q&A on nuclear energy risk with ... economist Matthew Neidell

Faster, Please! • 456 implied HN points • 08 Mar 24
🔬 Science Energy Policy AI Health Space
  1. The Fukushima nuclear meltdown in 2011 led to Japan shutting down nuclear reactors, resulting in unforeseen consequences like higher energy prices, reduced consumption, and increased mortality during cold temperatures.
  2. Following the shutdown, research by economist Matthew Neidell showed how Japan's shift to fossil fuels after the Fukushima incident led to higher bills, reduced energy use, and ultimately increased mortality in cold weather due to lack of climate control.
  3. The debate on nuclear energy often focuses on visible risks like accidents, while downplaying the benefits and comparative safety of nuclear power when weighed against other energy sources like coal or gas.

Groundly's Ground-Rent Grift

Progress and Poverty • 538 implied HN points • 31 Jan 24
💼 Business Real Estate Finance Economy Policy Innovation
  1. Georgists scrutinize speculative investing in land, seeing land rent as unearned income.
  2. Groundly's offer of buying just-the-house and renting the land may seem affordable upfront but comes with hidden costs and responsibilities.
  3. Traditional lenders like Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac may have challenges financing Groundly-type leasebacks, raising concerns about the viability of the business model.

The (Political) Sound Of Silence

QTR’s Fringe Finance • 38 implied HN points • 30 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Media Policy Public Opinion Political Rhetoric
  1. After the recent election, the intense political chatter has quieted down significantly, which many people find comforting. It's like a calm after a storm where there's less stress about political debates.
  2. Taking a break from media and social media has helped some people feel less anxious. It's like finally letting go of a heavy backpack after carrying it for too long.
  3. Noticing how much political noise was unnecessary has led to a sense of peace. Instead of getting caught up in arguments and outrage, they can focus on enjoying life again and finding new interests.

Asian Financial Crisis Redux

The Dollar Endgame • 199 implied HN points • 21 Feb 24
💰 Finance Markets Economy Policy Banking
  1. The Chinese yuan is weakening, reaching its lowest level against the dollar in a while. China taking measures like reducing the five-year loan prime rate to stimulate credit demand and revive the property market.
  2. Economists were surprised by the significant decrease in the reference rate by China, indicating the most substantial cut since its introduction in 2019. China is facing challenges from a property crisis, falling consumer confidence, and increasing deflationary pressures.
  3. China's central bank has been injecting liquidity into the financial system consistently through measures like reducing the reserve-requirement ratio for lenders and implementing regulations to support the yuan. The recent net injection of 1 billion yuan aims to maintain balanced liquidity post the Lunar New Year holiday.

AI Roundup 094: Pixtral et Le Chat

Artificial Ignorance • 46 implied HN points • 22 Nov 24
🕹 Technology AI Innovation Policy Research Business
  1. Mistral AI launched a new model called Pixtral that is strong in handling different tasks while using fewer parameters than some big competitors. This showcases advancements in AI technology.
  2. Le Chat, Mistral's popular chatbot, is now comparable to ChatGPT, offering features like web search and image generation for free during its beta phase.
  3. The DOJ is pushing for changes in Google's AI partnerships due to antitrust concerns, which could affect how AI technology develops and is shared among companies.

Life after Twitter

lawrence’s Substack • 499 implied HN points • 21 Apr 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Policy Opinion International relations Military Humanitarian Aid
  1. The author is moving away from Twitter to focus on writing about various subjects like Tesla, energy policy, music, and more.
  2. The author expresses discontent with current political situations and ideologies, rooting for individual freedom and less government interference.
  3. There is a strong support for aiding Ukraine in its fight for freedom against Russia and the author advocates for US intervention to weaken Russia and send a message to China.

Cash crops, marketing boards, and agricultural policy failures in Africa

An Africanist Perspective • 455 implied HN points • 18 Feb 23
🌍 World Politics Agriculture Development Trade Africa Policy
  1. Improving agricultural productivity in Africa is crucial for economic development. Policymakers need to shift towards policies that support small-scale farmers and focus on local value addition before exports.
  2. The role of the state in African agriculture needs to be reconsidered. Historical policies like marketing boards have had both positive and negative impacts, and there is a need for open-mindedness towards government involvement in the sector.
  3. African cash crop producers face challenges in benefiting from their produce due to the structure of international commodity markets. African governments must invest in value addition and convince buyers to support local processing to boost sectoral margins.