The hottest Policy Substack posts right now

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

Permission to Hate

Marginally Compelling • 41 implied HN points • 03 Oct 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Policy
  1. The focus on partisanship in Covid results gives people moral permission to hate their neighbors.
  2. Covid restrictions based on partisanship did not necessarily save lives as thought.
  3. Hating based on political party lines may distract from broader factors like income and education disparities.

This Silence Is Not Golden

QTR’s Fringe Finance • 35 implied HN points • 22 Dec 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Policy
  1. The Covid response led to significant negative impacts on society and individuals.
  2. There is public silence and avoidance in discussing the consequences and implications of the Covid response.
  3. The lack of inquiry, debate, and public discourse about the Covid response raises concerns about future consequences and the potential for hidden truths.

In the Media

From the New World • 10 implied HN points • 30 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Policy
  1. Launching a new YouTube channel to share podcasts and live streams is a goal for the new year. It's a chance to connect more with the audience through video content.
  2. Proposals for AI legislation are being pushed mainly by a group that is linked to Democrats, even in Republican-led states. This could change how many industries, like education and healthcare, operate.
  3. There's a growing conversation about how government systems can work more like successful businesses. This could help political groups find better ways to serve the public and regain support.

Good On Paper?

Some Unpleasant Arithmetic • 10 implied HN points • 20 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Policy
  1. Argentina's President Javier Milei has had a surprisingly positive first year, with the economy starting to recover from a significant recession.
  2. Inflation remains high but is showing signs of stabilization, with measures in place to control prices and exchange rates.
  3. Milei's economic strategy revolves around allowing both the local peso and foreign currencies like the dollar to coexist, aiming to maintain money demand and improve economic confidence.

Did the COVID vaccines save lives? I've got a $1M wager that they killed > saved. Want to help me win?

Steve Kirsch's newsletter • 11 implied HN points • 22 Dec 24
🏥 Health Politics Policy
  1. A person is betting $1 million that the COVID vaccines caused more deaths than they saved in the U.S. before January 2023.
  2. Two respected judges will oversee the debate, and all arguments will be shared in six rounds of documents to ensure fairness.
  3. The debate will be recorded and shared on platforms that allow free speech, as YouTube's rules prevent releasing it there.
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“Pay Every Claim” Is Not a Viable Model for Any Health Insurance Company

I Might Be Wrong • 12 implied HN points • 06 Dec 24
🏥 Health Politics Policy
  1. Health insurance companies can't pay every claim because it would be financially impossible for them. They need to manage costs to stay in business.
  2. Public anger towards insurance executives can stem from personal experiences with denied claims, but wishing harm on them is not a justified response.
  3. Understanding how insurance works is important; the system is complex, and blaming individuals doesn't address the underlying issues.

Give Trump Several Nobel Prizes So That He Can Be Less Weird

I Might Be Wrong • 4 implied HN points • 09 Jul 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Policy
  1. Trump's actions suggest he may be siding with Russia in the Ukraine war, which raises serious concerns. He seems to be blocking support for Ukraine and wants to make things easier for Russia.
  2. Some people think Trump might have personal reasons for his support of Russia, potentially involving financial interests. It's suggested he might prioritize money over moral values.
  3. There's speculation that Trump wants to win a Nobel Peace Prize by ending the conflict in Ukraine, even if that motivation seems silly and self-serving. This idea points to a pattern of acting for personal gain rather than the greater good.

On The Candlemaker's Petition

Marc Andreessen Substack • 55 HN points • 05 Mar 23
📚 Literature Policy
  1. The text discusses a petition from candlemakers in France, complaining about competition from the sun and arguing for protectionist measures.
  2. The candlemakers argue that by blocking out natural light, there will be a boost in industries related to artificial lighting, benefiting various sectors of the economy.
  3. The text challenges the idea of protecting industries from competition, highlighting that free trade and technological advancements lead to increased standards of living and overall economic growth.

The 2024 elections: Glass Half Empty or Half Full?

Phillips’s Newsletter • 28 implied HN points • 16 Feb 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Policy
  1. There are contradictory indicators about the upcoming US presidential election, with under-counted Democratic support in polls and increasing voter support for Trump.
  2. The author admits bias in wanting Trump to lose due to concerns about his threat to democracy, expressing a preference for Joe Biden over Trump.
  3. Pessimism about defeating Trump stems from a change in voter preferences towards Trump, particularly in distinct ethnic demographics.

Elon Musk Is Completely Full Of Shit!

C.O.P. Central Organizing Principle. • 12 implied HN points • 09 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Policy
  1. Elon Musk has made money from the war in Ukraine by using Starlink technology that was meant for military use, which raises questions about his credibility.
  2. The proposal for Ukraine's neutrality and a buffer zone likely won't satisfy Russia, as they have clear goals for their military actions.
  3. Musk and Trump, despite their attempts to present alternative views, are seen as part of the established political system and not genuinely offering solutions.

The Economic Impact of the Student Loan Restart

Apricitas Economics • 41 implied HN points • 18 Jul 23
💰 Finance Policy
  1. Student loan payments are restarting in the US, impacting millions of Americans and the economy.
  2. The restart of student loan payments will affect household finances and consumer spending.
  3. There are changes to student loan repayment plans, potentially reducing monthly payments for many borrowers.

Your guide to AI: August 2025

Guide to AI • 3 implied HN points • 03 Aug 25
🕹 Technology Policy
  1. The U.S. government plans to strengthen its AI capabilities by promoting national research resources and improving research safety. This includes plans for better semiconductor manufacturing and supporting local talent.
  2. Big tech companies like OpenAI and xAI are rapidly expanding their computing power, with OpenAI aiming for over 1 million GPUs, reflecting a competitive race in the AI industry.
  3. China is quickly advancing in open-source AI, with its labs making significant progress that challenges Western counterparts. They are also getting government support to implement their AI strategies effectively.

Nyhetsbrev steigan.no 15.02.2025

steigan.no • 8 implied HN points • 15 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Policy
  1. US Vice President JD Vance criticized the EU for being undemocratic and suppressing free speech during his speech at a security conference. He emphasized that the real threat to Europe comes from its own actions, not from outside nations like Russia.
  2. There is a growing belief that the war in Ukraine has been a proxy conflict, with the US using Ukraine to challenge Russia, and the West is now facing the reality of losing that conflict. European nations will need to take more responsibility for their own defense.
  3. The pharmaceutical industry is heavily influencing medical practices by donating to patient organizations and shaping health policies, which raises concerns about the integrity and independence of healthcare recommendations.

Headless Market Chickens, Cluckin' Like Crazy

QTR’s Fringe Finance • 29 implied HN points • 13 Dec 23
💰 Finance Policy
  1. NPCs in video games are characters controlled by programming and lack independent thought, and this concept is applied to describe certain individuals in real life scenarios.
  2. Passive stock market investors are compared to headless chickens mindlessly moving around, fueled by 'animal spirits' that keep the market going up.
  3. The stock market is considered overpriced, with potential risks of massive deleveraging, deflationary depression, and negative effects of a nation monetizing its own debt.

Our Economic Arrogance Will Be Our Undoing

QTR’s Fringe Finance • 42 implied HN points • 16 May 23
💰 Finance Policy
  1. Economic arrogance, like wrong predictions about inflation, can lead to detrimental consequences.
  2. Signs indicate a looming recession, especially with rising interest rates and slowing debt growth.
  3. The stock market may not accurately reflect the true economic indicators, potentially leading to a future market crash.

The limits of Death Star thinking

Hypertext • 2 HN points • 27 Mar 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Policy
  1. Many evidence-based interventions fail due to overlooking the complex, adaptive nature of systems, leading to unintended consequences.
  2. Policymakers often fall into 'Death Star thinking,' seeking a single, dramatic solution, instead of recognizing the need for ongoing care and systemic reforms.
  3. Creating true change in government effectiveness requires a shift towards enabling agencies by reducing constraints and building trust, rather than just imposing punitive measures.

The Post-Capitalist Horizon

Daniel Pinchbeck’s Newsletter • 9 implied HN points • 16 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Policy
  1. Many people are ignoring the worsening political and social issues around them, leading to a dangerous mindset that fuels support for extreme leaders. Some believe that tearing down the existing system is necessary because their lives are getting worse.
  2. Corporations and government are becoming too intertwined, moving towards a scary mix of authoritarian rule and extreme libertarianism. This can lead to oppression and a lack of basic freedoms for people.
  3. There is a urgent need to imagine alternatives beyond capitalism, as many feel trapped in the current system. It's important to explore new ideas for a better future together.

The Fed Sees a Softer, Higher Landing

Apricitas Economics • 31 implied HN points • 21 Sep 23
💰 Finance Policy
  1. The Fed is projecting a softer landing without the need for a recession to control inflation.
  2. There is less uncertainty in FOMC forecasts, and they anticipate higher GDP growth and slightly higher inflation.
  3. There are disagreements within the FOMC on the duration and extent of keeping interest rates high, with some seeing rates potentially staying permanently higher.

The Criminal Value Chain

Brands Mean a Lot • 44 implied HN points • 21 Feb 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Policy
  1. Successful business leaders don't always translate to successful politicians.
  2. Using a profit-maximizing framework like the 'value chain' can help reframe issues like policing.
  3. Addressing root causes of crime like poverty can be more effective in reducing criminal behavior.

What's Trump's Game on Tariffs?

I Might Be Wrong • 7 implied HN points • 12 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Policy
  1. Trump's strategy with tariffs might be complicated, but it could also be based on game theory, similar to poker. This means he could be pressuring others to make concessions while playing a risky game.
  2. Nate Silver argues that Trump could be using a rational approach to tariffs, where he leverages his power against weaker opponents. The idea is that sometimes the stronger player can force the weaker player to back down or give in.
  3. However, relying on incorrect strategies can lead to failure. If Trump's inputs are wrong, his rational approach could result in negative outcomes for America.

The Future is Local

Reboot • 22 implied HN points • 10 Feb 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Policy
  1. The future is about engaging in local communities and local politics, even if less glamorous than pursuing opportunities in tech hotspots.
  2. Religion can play a significant role in shaping worldviews and motivating individuals to engage in public service and local civic life.
  3. Finding your own path to civic engagement may involve unexpected detours, exploring diverse interests, and being open to advice while ultimately making decisions that align with your values and passions.

EVENT: Censorship in the Sciences

Journal of Free Black Thought • 9 implied HN points • 03 Dec 24
🔬 Science Policy
  1. A conference on censorship in the sciences is happening at USC from January 10-12, 2025. It will bring together various experts to discuss important topics related to censorship.
  2. The event will cover themes like the balance between scientific freedom and social responsibility, and different forms of censorship in research and public discussions.
  3. Participants can register to attend, and the conference is open to the public, with live streaming available for those who cannot be there in person.

Everyone is Frolicking But Me

Kyla’s Newsletter • 36 implied HN points • 08 Jun 23
💰 Finance Policy
  1. Feeling uncertain about the economy can lead to a sense of badness even when things are okay-ish.
  2. Loss aversion bias makes people focus more on potential losses rather than potential gains.
  3. Uncertainty, social media influence, and loud voices can amplify fear and uncertainty, contributing to a sense of badness.

ADDENDUM I: Judicial Nondelegation by Injunction – The Seizure of Immigration Policy through Judicial Fiat

Autodidact Obsessions • 4 implied HN points • 21 May 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Policy
  1. The judiciary is taking over immigration policy, which should be decided by Congress and the Executive. Judges are using orders to block immigration actions instead of just interpreting laws.
  2. This shift is creating unequal treatment for citizens and non-citizens in legal contexts. Non-citizens often benefit from more lenient standards than U.S. citizens face.
  3. To fix this, we need to end broad court orders in immigration cases and let elected officials take back control of immigration policy and enforcement.

Tis the Season to Scratch the Political Sore

The False Consensus Effect • 19 implied HN points • 19 Feb 22
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Policy
  1. Running for political office can be overwhelming and challenging, especially trying to balance the needs of a large constituency.
  2. Expressing oneself through art and creativity can be a rewarding aspect of a failed political campaign.
  3. Recognizing the limitations of governmental responsibility is crucial, as managing society's health is an almost impossible task for any individual.

SROs & Boarding Houses Are More Than Hype | YIMBYtown 2024

Cornerstone • 2 HN points • 15 Mar 24
🏥 Health & Wellness Policy
  1. Every $100 increase in Houston's rents leads to a 9% increase in the local homeless population, highlighting the critical link between housing affordability and homelessness.
  2. Single-room occupancy apartments (SROs) are seen as a viable solution to homelessness by experts, offering a historical perspective and potential to address regulatory challenges for implementation.
  3. SROs could provide a missing piece in combatting mass homelessness by offering a land-efficient, socially diverse housing option suitable for various demographics, advocating for their integration and allowing them is crucial for progress.

TikTok Has Clarified the "Are Social Media Companies Publishers or Platforms?" Question

I Might Be Wrong • 7 implied HN points • 22 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Policy
  1. TikTok is under scrutiny for its data collection practices, raising concerns about privacy and security. It's important to understand what information TikTok gathers from its users.
  2. There is a big debate about whether social media companies should be seen as publishers or platforms. This classification affects potential regulations and legal responsibilities.
  3. The situation with TikTok highlights issues related to government control and influence over social media. It's a complicated topic that mixes technology, privacy, and politics.

The Economy Is A Powder Keg, Boiling Over And Ready To Blow

QTR’s Fringe Finance • 34 implied HN points • 01 May 23
💰 Finance Policy
  1. Pressure is building up in the economic system with five major banks collapsing since March.
  2. Equity prices are high despite economic turmoil, indicating possible blow off valves elsewhere like precious metals.
  3. The government's casual attitude towards bailing out banks and printing money could have massive consequences for the economy and may lead to a shift towards precious metals.

Pregnancy, non-linear optical computing, and open business model strategies

The Strategy Toolkit • 8 implied HN points • 18 Nov 24
💼 Business Policy
  1. Countries with aging populations are trying to boost birth rates but often overlook the real-life choices and challenges that people face. Understanding psychology and behavior can help shape better strategies for families.
  2. Many individuals feel pressured about starting families due to career concerns. Now, some are even planning pregnancies to align with job stability needs.
  3. Good strategists realize that issues related to family planning are global and not limited to just one country, highlighting a broader trend in society.

Nyhetsbrev steigan.no 11.02.2025

steigan.no • 6 implied HN points • 11 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Policy
  1. Elon Musk has suggested shutting down U.S.-funded media like Radio Free Europe, arguing they are ineffective and filled with 'radical left-wing' activists. This has sparked a debate on the role of state-funded media.
  2. USAID is often viewed as a humanitarian organization, but some claim it operates like a regime change apparatus that influences media for political purposes, particularly in Eastern Europe.
  3. Experts are warning against the Norwegian government's heavy investment in unproven energy projects and emphasize the need to reassess the economic viability of these initiatives to avoid wasting taxpayer money.

The End of the Gender Abattoir

Disaffected Newsletter • 19 implied HN points • 05 Aug 22
🏥 Health Politics Policy
  1. The Tavistock Clinic in the UK has closed down, which was known for treating transgender youth. This has raised concerns about the care and safety of young people seeking gender-related support.
  2. A whistleblower at the clinic highlighted issues of homophobia being ignored, suggesting that there were serious safety concerns for patients. This points to broader issues in how care was being provided.
  3. The end of the clinic has sparked discussions about the future of gender treatment and the implications for the LGBTQ+ community. Many are reflecting on what this means for young people looking for help.

The Value of Stability in Scientific Funding, and Why We Need Better Data

The Good Science Project • 18 implied HN points • 17 Feb 24
🔬 Science Policy
  1. Scientific funding instability negatively impacts researchers' ability to plan and conduct research effectively, leading to swings in funding and unnecessary time spent on grant proposals.
  2. Improved data tracking is crucial to understanding the impact of funding gaps on researchers' employment outcomes, highlighting the need for long-term empirical studies in science policy.
  3. Addressing funding stability issues and utilizing detailed longitudinal data can help prevent obstacles in scientific progress and support the longevity of researchers' careers.

Disclosure of Anomalous Phenomena

Dr. Pippa's Pen & Podcast • 30 implied HN points • 06 Jun 23
🌍 World Politics Policy
  1. Congress has passed legislation to share information on anomalous phenomena with the public.
  2. The US military official David Grusch testified about hidden UAP activities in US Government programs.
  3. Former and current government officials are cooperating to disclose information about recovered materials and crafts from space.

The Religion of Science And Its Consequences.

Unfashionable • 22 implied HN points • 12 Nov 23
📖 Philosophy Policy
  1. In our era, science is often treated like a religion, with scientists seen as clergy.
  2. The use of the term 'Science' in discussions can imply an ethical obligation and blur the lines between descriptive and normative claims.
  3. Trying to eliminate human judgment in decision-making processes with a focus on 'following the science' can lead to accountability issues and politicization of science.

Your guide to AI: June 2025

Guide to AI • 3 implied HN points • 08 Jun 25
🕹 Technology Policy
  1. AI is becoming a big part of national strategies, with countries treating AI infrastructure like essential factories to boost their economies.
  2. Companies like Anthropic and OpenAI are leading the AI market, with OpenAI dominating business subscriptions while competition is ramping up.
  3. Big tech firms are now partnering with defense companies, showing a shift in how the tech industry views its role in national security.

The Looting Conspiracy

The Corbett Report • 25 implied HN points • 27 Aug 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Policy
  1. Shoplifting and looting are increasing globally, causing businesses to shut down and leading to various explanations but none are addressing the core issue.
  2. Retailers adopting no-confrontation policies and implementing increased security measures in response to rising theft may be exacerbating the problem.
  3. To counter the technocratic solutions to shoplifting, individuals can support local businesses, engage in peer-to-peer transactions, and boycott stores with invasive security measures.