The hottest Policy Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
Category
Top U.S. Politics Topics

A Pro-Speculator Property Tax Policy from Some in Detroit City Council

The Chargeback • 19 implied HN points • 10 Oct 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Policy
  1. Some members of the Detroit City Council are proposing a property tax policy that could benefit outside property speculators.
  2. Eliminating all property taxes could give non-residents an advantage over Detroit residents in property ownership.
  3. Supporting property tax relief for low-income homeowners could be a better solution than empowering speculators.

Mommy, daddy, is ChatGPT going to automate your jobs? | Roundup #18

Workonomics • 19 implied HN points • 28 Mar 23
💼 Business Policy
  1. A study found that higher-wage jobs have a higher exposure to automation than lower-wage jobs.
  2. A tight labor market has helped reduce inequality by increasing wages for low-wage workers more than high-wage workers.
  3. Different states have proposed various gig economy regulations, such as requiring gig platforms to show drivers how much they were paid and provide benefits like minimum wage and sick time.

Grok 4 admits that the COVID vaccines caused net harm

Steve Kirsch's newsletter • 9 implied HN points • 15 Jul 25
🏥 Health Politics Policy
  1. Grok 4 acknowledged that the COVID vaccines may have caused more harm than good. It recognized that the data showed little benefit from the vaccines during critical periods.
  2. The conversation highlighted that despite the claims of safety, there is significant evidence pointing to increased mortality rates among vaccinated individuals after booster shots.
  3. Many experts and organizations, like the CDC, have been criticized for not engaging with the data that suggests harm from the vaccines, leading to concerns about transparency and willingness to discuss the issue.

“Dey Took Err Jerbs”: Immigration and the Lump of Labor Fallacy

Center for the Study of Partisanship and Ideology • 24 implied HN points • 23 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Policy
  1. The idea that there's only a fixed number of jobs is a myth. More workers, especially immigrants, can actually create new jobs and grow the economy.
  2. High-skilled immigrants contribute significantly to innovation and entrepreneurship. Many big companies in the U.S. were started by immigrants or their children.
  3. Allowing more immigrants into the workforce benefits everyone. It can lead to economic growth and better job opportunities for all, rather than taking jobs away from Americans.
Get a weekly roundup of the best Substack posts, by hacker news affinity:

The Top Ten Books on British Politics

Comment is Freed • 82 implied HN points • 09 Dec 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Policy
  1. The list provides a variety of book recommendations on British politics, including biographies, histories, and memoirs.
  2. The books cover a wide range of topics from British political figures to the impact of policies on the welfare state.
  3. The post also highlights the importance of personal reflections and honesty in political diaries and memoirs to gain insights into politicians and civil servants.

Donald Trump, The President Of The Ashes.

C.O.P. Central Organizing Principle. • 30 implied HN points • 21 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Policy
  1. Japan and other countries are selling off US debt, which shows that they are losing faith in the American economy. This could make it harder for the US to sell treasury bonds and maintain the dollar's value.
  2. The world sees the US as weak, with problems like homelessness and a large debt. Many countries want to join trade alliances that do not rely on the US dollar.
  3. To improve the economy and attract buyers for US treasury bonds, one suggestion is to raise taxes on the wealthy and cut military spending. However, it's unlikely that such changes will be made.

$42 Billion Broadband Boondoggle Brought Internet to Zero Homes

QTR’s Fringe Finance • 22 implied HN points • 13 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Policy
  1. The $42 billion Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment Program has not connected any homes to the internet, highlighting a failure in its implementation.
  2. Most people already have internet access, and less than 1 million households are offline due to lack of availability, suggesting the problem isn't as big as thought.
  3. Government funding can slow down private investments in broadband infrastructure, and letting the market operate may lead to better solutions and prices for consumers.

URGENT: Ex-White House advisor Andy Slavitt is refusing to comply with a subpoena over questions about how he tried to censor me and others in 2021

Unreported Truths • 72 implied HN points • 04 Feb 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Policy
  1. Former White House advisor Andy Slavitt is refusing to comply with a Congressional subpoena.
  2. Ignoring a Congressional subpoena is a federal crime, but the Biden Administration will not prosecute Slavitt.
  3. Claims of executive privilege are being used to justify Slavitt's refusal to testify, despite past cases ruling against such claims.

Financial Repression Isn't What It Used To Be

European Straits • 10 implied HN points • 25 Jun 25
💰 Finance Policy
  1. Financial repression happens when governments guide savings into projects they choose, even if people could get better returns elsewhere. This is a way for countries to manage their economies during tough times.
  2. In the past, developing countries used financial repression to grow quickly, but now it can signal that advanced economies are facing decline. It's like trying to hold onto past success instead of moving forward.
  3. The decision to use financial repression comes from having too much available money and not enough good places to invest it. It can prevent citizens from making their own financial choices and aims to keep the economy stable.

Unringing Asilomar's False Alarm Bell

Viruses Must Die • 8 implied HN points • 02 Aug 25
🔬 Science Policy
  1. Paul Berg expressed strong opposition to strict government regulations on recombinant DNA research. He believed such laws could harm important scientific progress.
  2. He felt that the fears surrounding recombinant DNA were overstated and more harmful than the risks of the research itself. He argued that the real danger lies in too much government control over science.
  3. Berg warned that excessive bureaucracy could drive scientists to conduct their work in other countries. He stressed the need for a supportive environment for scientific exploration and innovation.

Can the UK broaden its horizons in research?

Science Forever • 19 implied HN points • 28 Feb 23
🔬 Science Policy
  1. Brexit tensions have caused a loss of funding for UK collaborations with European researchers, affecting scientific innovation. The UK needs to navigate complex agreements to regain those collaborations.
  2. The UK's aspiration to be a 'science superpower' is challenged without strong collaborations with Horizon Europe. Rebuilding partnerships may take years and is contingent on trade deals and agreements with the EU.
  3. Isolated science is less effective than shared science. The UK risks missing out on vital collaborations and scientific progress if it can't participate in international research partnerships.

February 5, 2025

Letters from an American • 22 implied HN points • 06 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Policy
  1. Trump is back in office and is removing people he thinks are against him from key government positions. This includes the Department of Justice and the FBI.
  2. Elon Musk appears to be gaining control over various federal systems, raising concerns about his influence on important data and potential conflicts of interest.
  3. Protests are occurring as people are worried about the government's power being taken over by Musk and Trump, especially with cuts to vital services that affect rural voters.

Trudeau Resigns? Then Pisses In Canada's Face, Proroguing Parliament.

C.O.P. Central Organizing Principle. • 24 implied HN points • 07 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Policy
  1. The Prime Minister seems to avoid difficult questions about the economy and international issues instead of addressing them directly. This gives the impression of dodging accountability.
  2. There are serious concerns regarding the state of the Canadian economy, including high storefront vacancies and the impact of US economic policies on Canada. Many small businesses are struggling, which affects consumer spending.
  3. The lack of viable leadership in Canadian parties is troubling, with calls for new leadership to unite the people and address ongoing issues. Many feel that current leaders are failing to instill public confidence.

How going to Green Energy Can Lead to a More Prosperous America

America in Crisis • 19 implied HN points • 03 Jul 23
🔬 Science Policy
  1. Addressing climate change with green energy can actually boost economic growth by creating new industries and enlarging the leading sector.
  2. Optimal economic culture, sound policy, and unmet demand are essential for strong economic growth.
  3. Implementing a carbon tax can help shift to green energy and create new leading industries, benefiting the economy in the long run.

Natto Thoughts Explainer: China’s Great Leap Forward into a Brand-new Electric Vehicle Industry

Natto Thoughts • 19 implied HN points • 12 Apr 23
💼 Business Policy
  1. China's top-down strategy in developing the EV industry has led to significant market dominance, increasing the country's global economic influence.
  2. The three stages of China's EV industry development involved government support, special programs, and industry incentives to rapidly create a new industry.
  3. The growth and advancements in China's EV industry have implications of boosting global climate policies, forming industry alliances, and intensifying competition among EV makers.

November 8, 2024

Letters from an American • 30 implied HN points • 09 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Policy
  1. Many Trump voters are surprised to find out that tariffs will increase prices, like gaming consoles going up significantly in cost. This raises questions about the effectiveness of Trump's policies.
  2. Voters who chose Trump for economic relief are unhappy with his harsh immigration policies that threaten their undocumented friends and family. This highlights a disconnect between voter expectations and the reality of Trump's agenda.
  3. Right-wing media plays a major role in shaping how voters perceive issues, often spreading misinformation. It's important to understand how this affects political choices and voter awareness.

25 mile speed limit

Disaffected Newsletter • 39 implied HN points • 01 Mar 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Policy
  1. There is a speed limit of 25 miles per hour in certain areas. This helps keep neighborhoods safer for pedestrians and bikers.
  2. Motorcycles are not permitted to travel in these 25 mile speed limit areas. This rule is likely to protect other road users.
  3. Following speed limits is important for everyone’s safety on the road. It can help prevent accidents and make streets more comfortable for all.

The policy Implications of SNT

Gordian Knot News • 87 implied HN points • 15 Sep 23
🔬 Science Policy
  1. SNT could lead to radiation regulatory policies that benefit nuclear power and humanity
  2. SNT advocates for considering dose in DNA repair period for cancer incidence estimation
  3. Under SNT, evacuation in nuclear incidents may not be beneficial, unlike LNT guidelines

Auto Industry Wins More Delays In Massachusetts Auto Repair Case

Fight to Repair • 19 implied HN points • 17 Jan 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Policy
  1. A federal judge's decision in Massachusetts allows more delays in enforcing the automobile right to repair law, leaving voters in the state waiting for over 2 years and facing further postponement.
  2. Arguments and requests from the Auto Industry and Massachusetts's Attorney General center on details like the wording of ballot measures, compliance with federal laws, and potential impacts on vehicle safety and security.
  3. The ongoing case also involves a new Attorney General taking office, raising the possibility of a different stance on enforcing the right to repair law, potentially leading to changes in the enforcement process.

The law is a stick-up !

Euro Desk Paris • 39 implied HN points • 11 Mar 23
🌍 World Politics Policy
  1. Over 2 million people participated in a national mobilization in France, with widespread demonstrations across the country.
  2. The proposed pension reform in France is just the tip of the iceberg, as it involves converting retirement into a market index.
  3. Historical events like the 1963 miner's strike in France provide parallels and lessons for the current social movements and government responses.

Got an extraordinary COVID vaccine mortality anecdote?

Steve Kirsch's newsletter • 6 implied HN points • 10 Aug 25
🏥 Health Politics Policy
  1. Share your stories about COVID vaccine outcomes, whether they are good or bad. It's important to share personal experiences.
  2. When sharing your story, include details about the number of deaths before and after the vaccine. This helps give context to the experiences.
  3. The stories collected might be put together for a video to present to health officials, showing real-life impacts of the vaccine.

The Tale of Two Chinas

The Last Bear Standing • 60 implied HN points • 26 Jan 24
💰 Finance Policy
  1. China's economic growth was heavily reliant on property development and infrastructure, funded by the massive expansion of credit.
  2. The shift in Chinese government policy towards reforming the property sector and debt markets led to a significant impact on the economy.
  3. The Chinese financial system faced the risk of a crisis due to the extensive exposure to property debt and potential credit losses.

Vaccine Deep State Insanity

Who is Robert Malone • 18 implied HN points • 14 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Policy
  1. The 'Deep State' refers to hidden networks of power that operate independently of elected officials, often pursuing their own goals. This can create a disconnect between actual governance and public needs.
  2. Groupthink can be a significant issue within large organizations like government, where only certain ideas are accepted, potentially stifling innovation and alternative solutions.
  3. The appointment of individuals with strong ties to established systems can lead to continuity in policies that may not have worked in the past, especially regarding public health and pandemic preparedness.

WEEKLY BRIEFLY NOTED: For 2024-12-11 We

Brad DeLong's Grasping Reality • 23 implied HN points • 11 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Policy
  1. Quasars are super bright and energetic objects in space, powered by black holes consuming material. They help astronomers understand our universe better.
  2. Current economic policies, especially under recent U.S. leadership, are shaping the economy in complex ways, with stock market reactions being particularly important.
  3. Using AI can be helpful, but it's important to know when to rely on it. It can aid in tasks we could do ourselves but shouldn't replace deep learning and understanding.

The Housing Bust Was Not A Cyclical Event

Erdmann Housing Tracker • 84 implied HN points • 26 Jul 23
💼 Business Policy
  1. Overly-cyclical housing markets are not the main problem - zoning regulations are.
  2. Errors about private construction industry being pro-cyclical lead to misconceptions about the housing crisis causes.
  3. Impact of post-recession mortgage suppression on single-family construction and working class homeowners has been overlooked.

Let Them Eat Mars Rocks!

Daniel Pinchbeck’s Newsletter • 17 implied HN points • 07 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Policy
  1. Musk is gaining too much power without proper checks or balances, which can be dangerous for society. His actions are compared to a hostile takeover of the US government, reflecting a neglect of important social needs.
  2. The government is undergoing significant changes that seem focused on consolidating Musk's control rather than genuinely improving people's lives or democracy.
  3. There is a deeper problem in the political system as many refuse to acknowledge America's declining influence and challenges, leading to desperation and populist movements that could worsen the issues at hand.

January 1, 2025

Letters from an American • 20 implied HN points • 02 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Policy
  1. Twenty-five years ago, programmers worked hard to fix the Y2K bug, preventing potential chaos as the year changed to 2000. Their successful efforts showed the importance of preparation and problem-solving.
  2. Despite fears of disaster, social panic, and even scams around the new millennium, everything went smoothly because people prepared in advance. The success made many forget there was ever a real threat.
  3. As we move into a new year, one of the big questions is whether people appreciate the government's hard work in managing challenges, especially when it benefits them, like lowering drug costs for seniors.

"The Time for Empty Talk is Over

Who is Robert Malone • 19 implied HN points • 14 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Policy
  1. Change is needed in leadership. People want action from politicians instead of just talk.
  2. There's a strong feeling of national pride and unity. Everyone, no matter their background, is fighting for the same American dream.
  3. Challenges ahead should be faced with determination. The American spirit is strong, and there's confidence that the country can overcome any obstacle.

MAHA- Populism to Policy

Who is Robert Malone • 15 implied HN points • 26 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Policy
  1. Populism focuses on the divide between the ordinary people and the corrupt elites. It's important for political movements to transform people's frustrations into real policy changes.
  2. MAHA, which promotes health, aims to improve American health within 12-18 months but must balance regulations and individual freedoms to avoid becoming too controlling.
  3. There are ongoing debates about the role of government in personal health choices, like dietary habits and medical decisions. Finding the right balance between public health and individual rights is crucial.

Elon: Get the DEI out of Science Funding!

Critical Mass • 23 implied HN points • 11 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Policy
  1. Government science funding should focus on real science instead of social issues. This is important for advancing research and technology.
  2. Leadership in science organizations should prioritize science over activism. This might help improve efficiency and focus.
  3. Cutting unnecessary spending in science funding can help tackle global challenges. It's a step toward maintaining economic strength for the future.

Yet again, the better we get at "harm reduction," the more people overdose and die

Unreported Truths • 54 implied HN points • 18 Jan 24
🏥 Health & Wellness Policy
  1. British Columbia's program of providing legal medical prescriptions for opioids to addicts as a harm reduction strategy has led to a catastrophic increase in overdose hospitalizations and deaths.
  2. Harm reduction strategies, such as naloxone availability and supervised consumption sites, implemented in British Columbia have not been effective in reducing opioid overdose deaths.
  3. The failure of harm reduction strategies in British Columbia highlights the need for societies to control drug use by highlighting harms and making users legally responsible.

What, In Theory, Is Tulsi Gabbard's Job?

I Might Be Wrong • 8 implied HN points • 18 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Policy
  1. Tulsi Gabbard's foreign policy views are not highly regarded, even by some who typically disagree with Trump.
  2. One might prefer listening to a wide range of unusual sources over her opinions on international matters.
  3. This highlights the importance of being critical about who we choose to listen to in politics.

The SDA’s Inertia-imposed Challenges

Ill-Defined Space • 19 implied HN points • 20 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Policy
  1. The Space Development Agency (SDA) is struggling with supply chain issues for satellite manufacturing. This is partly due to a past focus on slow production, which created a system that favors large companies over smaller, more agile ones.
  2. The SDA's contracts often go to established companies that have experience writing proposals but may lack the capability to produce satellites quickly. This means the SDA risks getting solutions that aren't as effective as what smaller, more innovative companies could offer.
  3. The SDA aims to increase the number of satellites produced swiftly, but many contractors may not be able to meet these high demands. This situation emphasizes the need for a more responsive and effective satellite manufacturing base.

No, Biden isn't punishing you for your high credit score.

Erdmann Housing Tracker • 84 implied HN points • 02 May 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Policy
  1. There was misinformation spread about Biden increasing fees for good credit homebuyers to subsidize those with risky credit scores.
  2. The misinformation was fueled by cherry-picked data and politically charged language in articles from various news sources.
  3. The real issue at hand is an actuarial decision about fee structures, and the impact on mortgage access post-Great Recession.

January 10, 2025

Letters from an American • 17 implied HN points • 11 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Policy
  1. Under Biden, the U.S. economy created 16.6 million jobs and had the lowest unemployment rate in 50 years. It shows the economy bounced back better than expected after the pandemic.
  2. Trump continues to spread false claims about Democrats and various issues, and his supporters rally around these narratives. This makes it hard for them to accept reality.
  3. Biden's administration is actively looking out for immigrants and combating climate change, while Trump proposes controversial actions that many Americans may not support.

The baby bust and the gender gap

Unreported Truths • 49 implied HN points • 30 Jan 24
🌍 World Politics Policy
  1. Young women in rich countries are becoming more liberal and less interested in having children.
  2. Liberal political attitudes are linked to lower fertility rates.
  3. The convergence of the gender gap and baby bust may lead to challenges in marriage and childbearing.