The hottest Policy Substack posts right now

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Top U.S. Politics Topics

The great 2024 vibe shift (and other stories)

Wrong Side of History • 403 implied HN points • 22 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Policy
  1. The concept of political trends is similar to fashion trends, where ideas shift from cool to mainstream and eventually to uncool. This shows how society's values can change over time.
  2. The idea of echo chambers exists where people only hear opinions that match their own, but this can actually lead to more extreme views. In the past, people were less exposed to opposing opinions, which might have resulted in calmer discussions.
  3. In America, there's been a noticeable shift to the left in cultural issues, leaving many regular voters feeling disconnected. This polarization reflects broader divisions in society.

Getting it Right vs. Getting Ahead

In My Tribe • 379 implied HN points • 05 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Policy
  1. In a meeting, people can either aim to show they were on the winning side or focus on what will lead to the best long-term results. These two priorities often clash, especially in organizations.
  2. In academia, flattering important figures may help someone advance, even if it doesn't contribute to real knowledge. This can lead to challenges for those who prioritize truth over personal gain.
  3. It's common for workers to try to guess what their managers want rather than providing honest opinions. This can result in a culture where the truth is overlooked for the sake of advancement.

Is there a third way?

Gordian Knot News • 146 implied HN points • 21 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Policy
  1. Engineers focus on balancing trade-offs in design, while lawyers emphasize resolving conflicts through argument. This leads to different approaches in their fields.
  2. The shift from an engineering model to a legal model in areas like nuclear energy has created an unbalanced system where safety decisions are one-sided.
  3. A solution needs to ensure fair accountability, meaning decision-makers should face real penalties for failing to balance safety and functionality effectively.
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Top Links 622 Trump's big choices. President-Fed interactions. Lifting the wind siege & how reinsurance trimmed its wildfire exposure.

Chartbook • 314 implied HN points • 18 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Policy
  1. High tariffs imposed by Donald Trump can be seen positively by some who believe it helps protect American jobs.
  2. Interactions between the President and the Federal Reserve are crucial for understanding economic policies.
  3. Reinsurance companies are finding ways to reduce their risks from wildfires, showing how the industry is adapting to climate challenges.

Could Trump Buy TikTok?

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 324 implied HN points • 13 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Policy
  1. Trump, who initially started the anti-TikTok movement, now supports a plan to save the app. This shows how opinions can change based on circumstances.
  2. There is a looming deadline for TikTok's future, which has sparked conversations about its potential sale or shutdown. Time is running out for a resolution.
  3. Supporting independent journalism is important, and it helps provide access to in-depth stories and commentary on significant issues. Subscribing can help maintain this kind of journalism.

Ohio is buying mobile shoot houses to train armed teachers

School Shooting Data Analysis and Reports • 39 implied HN points • 29 May 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Policy
  1. Ohio is purchasing mobile shoot houses to train armed teachers. These structures don't align with real-world school shooting scenarios.
  2. The mobile shoot houses may not effectively train teachers for school shooting situations. The cost and logistics of training teachers to use these facilities can add up to millions of dollars.
  3. The purchase of shoot houses raises questions about budget priorities and effectiveness in enhancing school safety. Prioritizing such equipment over addressing budget deficits may be considered 'security theater.'

Stop Making Cents?

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 282 implied HN points • 12 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Policy
  1. The cost of making a penny is greater than its value, leading to debates about whether they should continue to be produced.
  2. Some people believe that the penny has sentimental value and shouldn't be discarded just because it doesn't seem practical.
  3. The argument against the penny includes the huge losses the government faces from minting them, which may outweigh any emotional reasons to keep them.

Global Media Award Finalist: Inside a month of America's school shootings

School Shooting Data Analysis and Reports • 79 implied HN points • 25 Mar 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Policy
  1. The project highlighted the challenges of collecting data on school shootings and the personal stories affected by gun crimes.
  2. The collaboration between The Economist and David Riedman is shedding light on school swatting incidents.
  3. The success of the project demonstrated the effectiveness of combining video reporting, data journalism, and traditional reporting in storytelling.

No bubble, no trouble...

Japan Optimist • 235 implied HN points • 11 Jun 23
💰 Finance Policy
  1. Bank of Japan Governor Ueda Kazuo is focused on ensuring economic growth and controlling inflation.
  2. In Japan, politicians are addressing rising energy costs and affordability concerns, not the central bank.
  3. Japanese elite closely monitor real estate prices to prevent asset bubbles and ensure future generations' prospects.

🗽🧠 Pro-immigration policy and mutual brain gain: A Quick Q&A with … economist Gaurav Khanna

Faster, Please! • 365 implied HN points • 11 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Policy
  1. Immigration benefits workers in both the US and India. It leads to better job opportunities and innovation in both countries.
  2. Indian students often pursue IT skills to try for jobs in the US. Even those who don't make it can help grow India's own tech sector.
  3. The US gains when foreign students study there, even if they return home. Their presence supports local schools and boosts the economy.

Why can't anyone show us the study showing vaccines save lives?

Steve Kirsch's newsletter • 9 implied HN points • 13 Jan 26
🏥 Health Politics Policy
  1. No US record-level study has been found showing fully vaccinated children have lower all-cause mortality than under-vaccinated peers, despite searches by humans and AI.
  2. Many studies offered as evidence don’t meet the specific criteria cited here — they can be non-US, use modeled data, focus on single vaccines or short time windows, or lack individual record-level information.
  3. Because of the claimed absence of such US record-level evidence, the argument is that vaccine mandates rest on belief rather than direct data, and that a proper study should be done before mandating mass childhood vaccination.

🧪⚛🧬 Broken promises: CHIPS Act funding for science research falls short

Faster, Please! • 822 implied HN points • 13 Mar 24
🕹 Technology Policy
  1. Despite promises made in the CHIPS and Science Act, Congress significantly underfunded key agencies and programs for scientific research, hindering progress in fields like artificial intelligence.
  2. Investment in basic scientific research, often a public good with long-term benefits beyond immediate financial gains, is essential for innovation and societal advancement.
  3. Government-funded R&D has historically played a crucial role in business sector productivity growth, supporting the argument for increased federal spending on research and development.

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 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.

unpardonable pardons

bad cattitude • 291 implied HN points • 20 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Policy
  1. The pardoning of individuals related to January 6 raises serious concerns about justice and accountability. It seems to give a free pass to those who may have acted unlawfully while in power.
  2. A dangerous precedent is set when political figures can use pardons to avoid consequences for their actions. This undermines trust in the system and holds the potential for abuse of power.
  3. Despite the pardons, there's still a chance to pursue the truth by calling on those involved to testify. They could face new charges for lying, which might encourage honesty and accountability moving forward.

sunday meanpool

bad cattitude • 100 implied HN points • 27 Jul 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Policy
  1. It's important to work together to find solutions to problems we face. Teamwork can help us tackle challenges better.
  2. Being honest is good, but it's also important to know when not to share everything. Too much talking can cause trouble.
  3. Everyone appreciates a little privacy and trust. It's best to keep some things to yourself and respect others' boundaries.

The Hansen Firing

Gordian Knot News • 139 implied HN points • 19 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Policy
  1. The current approach to reforming the NRC isn't effective. Both sides of the political aisle are missing the mark on how to make real changes.
  2. Making significant updates to nuclear regulations can face many challenges, including legal issues and pushback from those who benefit from the current system.
  3. A more strategic plan focusing on changing regulations and waiting for political tides, like the upcoming elections, might be a better approach for meaningful progress in the nuclear sector.

The Top Ten Most Incriminating Elements of the Newly Released 2003 Trump-Epstein Communication—Which Clearly Reads As Being About Pedophilia

Proof • 109 implied HN points • 19 Jul 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Policy
  1. There are strong claims about a 2003 communication between Trump and Epstein that suggests serious misconduct. This is being referred to as a significant piece of evidence.
  2. The content of these communications is alleged to indicate inappropriate behavior involving minors. This has raised many eyebrows and concerns.
  3. Trump's responses to these allegations have been described as extreme, which some people interpret as attempts to hide the truth.

We need to get rid of politicians

The Novelleist • 890 implied HN points • 22 Jan 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Policy
  1. Politicians are often chosen for their appeal to different groups, rather than their ability to lead effectively.
  2. Voting for a plan rather than a person could lead to more effective governance.
  3. An alternative approach could involve selecting a group to create and execute an eight-year plan for the country.

Inauguration Links

In My Tribe • 288 implied HN points • 20 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Policy
  1. Betsy DeVos suggests that getting things done in Washington takes a lot of time because many people are stuck in their ways. She believes it's important to focus on those who are open to new ideas.
  2. John Cochrane offers economic advice, saying a flat tax could work better than the current system, and that direct payments might be a smarter way to redistribute wealth. He admits he's leaning towards a libertarian view on taxes.
  3. Marc Andreessen praises Donald Trump's understanding of business and issues like energy management, suggesting that his experience can help tackle difficult problems effectively.

Was The 2024 Election Stolen?

OK Doomer • 141 implied HN points • 16 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Policy
  1. Some people believe that the 2024 election was stolen, but there are many opinions and theories about it. It's important to look at all the evidence before jumping to conclusions.
  2. The impact of COVID-19 on children is serious, with many now facing long-term health issues. Decisions made during the pandemic have lasting effects, especially on kids.
  3. Conspiracy theories can spread quickly and influence people's beliefs. It's healthy to question things, but always seek reliable information.

A win win opening for a president who badly needs one?

The Crucial Years • 1066 implied HN points • 07 Nov 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Policy
  1. Environmental campaign is rapidly emerging in the Gulf of Mexico to halt LNG exports, influencing political and environmental grounds.
  2. Biden has the opportunity to show leadership by denying new LNG export licenses, which could cut costs for American consumers and address inflation concerns.
  3. Taking action against LNG exports can help Biden address his polling challenges, appeal to young voters concerned about climate change, and demonstrate commitment to clean energy initiatives.

Different Kinds of Winning

The Crucial Years • 966 implied HN points • 22 Dec 23
🌞 Climate & Environment Policy
  1. There is a potential victory on pausing LNG exports, which could impact Biden's campaign and the planet positively.
  2. Campaigners and new data have highlighted the detrimental impact of LNG exports on the climate and American consumers.
  3. The administration's decision on LNG exports can be a crucial win for climate action and Biden's re-election efforts.

State-by-state electricity mixes and prices in the United States

Sustainability by numbers • 279 implied HN points • 05 Feb 25
🌞 Climate & Environment Policy
  1. There are interactive slide decks available that show how electricity sources and prices vary across different states in the US. This makes it easy for people to understand where their electricity comes from.
  2. The slide decks get updated with new data to reflect changes in energy policy and the electricity market over time. It's helpful for anyone interested in seeing the latest trends and figures.
  3. Users can freely explore the data on electricity mixes and prices without needing permission, promoting accessibility and awareness about energy consumption.

The Looming Tech Takeover

Nonzero Newsletter • 304 implied HN points • 17 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Policy
  1. Facial recognition technology is causing serious problems, like wrong arrests. It's important to question the reliability of these tools.
  2. Trump is getting a lot of support from tech leaders as he prepares for his second term. This close relationship could change how tech and politics interact.
  3. Biden and Trump are both taking credit for a ceasefire in the Israel-Hamas conflict. However, it seems Trump’s envoy may have played a bigger role in making it happen than Biden did.

Doofuses That Write About Economics

Points And Figures • 852 implied HN points • 16 Feb 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Policy
  1. The author criticizes mainstream media for lacking understanding in economic analysis, particularly in their coverage of immigration and its impact.
  2. The author argues against the notion that illegal immigrants bring economic benefits, highlighting the importance of considering opportunity costs and the true impact on wages.
  3. The author suggests a solution to the issue of illegal immigration by advocating for securing borders and deporting all illegal immigrants, emphasizing the potential cost savings in comparison to housing them.

congressional immunity

bad cattitude • 327 implied HN points • 18 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Policy
  1. The new funding bill includes a hidden section that grants Congress members immunity from legal oversight. This means they can ignore subpoenas and investigations, making it hard to hold them accountable.
  2. This immunity is retroactive, which could stop ongoing legal cases from gathering important data from Congress. It's like they're protecting themselves from any scrutiny of their actions.
  3. Such actions go against the idea that public officials should be accountable to the people. If Congress can avoid investigation, it's a big problem for democracy.

The Don's Corruption Inc.

Slack Tide by Matt Labash • 290 implied HN points • 28 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Policy
  1. Trump's leadership is seen as lacking core values, which makes his administration feel unstable.
  2. There are concerns about potential changes to the presidency, including the idea of extending Trump's time in office.
  3. Criticism of Trump is expected to continue for many years, as many feel strongly about his actions and their impact.

Why Housing Vouchers Need a YIMBY Movement

The New Urban Order • 139 implied HN points • 02 Jan 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Policy
  1. YIMBY movement has had significant successes in housing reforms, but the impact on housing supply and affordability is uncertain.
  2. While YIMBYism appeals to various political ideologies, it may not address the need for subsidized housing for the growing number of Americans in poverty.
  3. Advocating for the expansion of project-based vouchers, which offer federally guaranteed rent and simplify affordable housing development, could be a more pragmatic and cross-over approach embraced by developers and policymakers.

Import AI 352: Asteroids and AI policy; privacy-preserving AI benchmarks; and distributed inference

Import AI • 159 implied HN points • 11 Dec 23
🕹 Technology Policy
  1. Preparing for potential asteroid impacts requires coordination, strategic planning, and societal engagement.
  2. Distributed systems like LinguaLinked challenge traditional AI infrastructure assumptions, enabling local governance of AI models.
  3. Privacy-preserving benchmarks like Hashmarks allow for secure evaluation of sensitive AI capabilities without revealing specific information.

Fear And Anger In The Heart of NIMBY

Cornerstone • 99 implied HN points • 19 Feb 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Policy
  1. Zoning reform opponents want people to be confused, angry, and fearful, but reform supporters aim to inform people with the belief that information is on their side.
  2. Negative behavior and attacks from opponents persist, making it challenging to engage in positive dialogue and find common ground in housing advocacy.
  3. NIMBYism is driven by a deep fear of change, with opponents believing increased housing density will disrupt their lives, creating a generational and emotional divide in housing debates.

Defusing the Depopulation Bomb

The Future, Now and Then • 103 implied HN points • 25 Jul 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Policy
  1. The birth rate is decreasing globally, and if it stays below 2.0 babies per couple, the world population will eventually shrink. This is a significant trend we should pay attention to.
  2. The book discusses the idea of boosting population numbers but doesn't fully address arguments against excessive population growth or the refusal to consider people's personal choices in having children.
  3. The authors miss the chance to suggest positive family policies that would help people today, instead of framing the issue as an urgent crisis for the future.

School Choice and School Vouchers Are Scams

The View from Rural Missouri by Jess Piper • 218 implied HN points • 28 Sep 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Policy
  1. School choice and school vouchers are considered scams by the author due to the privatization push in Missouri and the negative effects on public education.
  2. Separation of church and state is mentioned as a concern in the context of taxpayer money being funneled to private religious schools through voucher schemes.
  3. Legislators in Missouri, like Josh Hurlbert, are being scrutinized for their involvement in promoting 'Empowerment scholarship' programs despite the impact on public schools and taxpayers.